"In our global Church today, up to 200 million people live in areas where they face discrimination, persecution or oppression because of their faith. That's as many as one Christian in every 10 within the worldwide Church family who suffers because they choose to follow Jesus Christ.
"They face slavery, imprisonment, torture and even execution."
This is how the pastor, Rev. Peter Richmond, described the world situation last Sunday, the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church.
As part of the service, which was held in Carringtons Restaurant, Peter talked about the daily threat of impoverishment, violence, arrest, kidnap, rape or murder that such Christians face.
He thanked the fellowship for their support of persecuted Christians and making 'Pembrokeshire for the Suffering Church' a reality, quoting Galatians 6:9-10:
'Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.' He concluded: "Any way we can get involved honours the words of Hebrews 13:3 - 'Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.'"
Among the songs and hymns chosen was a fairly new song by Graham Kendrick, 'As we sing our songs... (How long)' which calls Christians to live lives worthy of those who suffer for the gospel of Jesus.
Services take place every Sunday afternoon at 4.15 pm in Carringtons, under the Atlantic Hotel. Visit the website, http://www.hesed.co.uk">www.hesed.co.uk for details.