Cristo Rei Statue in Portugal to Illuminate Red in Solidarity with Persecuted Christians
A powerful visual statement of solidarity is set to unfold this week as the Cristo Rei statue in Almada, Portugal, joins over 600 churches and monuments globally in illuminating red, a symbolic gesture representing the blood of martyrs and raising awareness for religious freedom. The illumination will begin on Wednesday and continue through Saturday, November 21st.
The initiative is spearheaded by the AIS Foundation (Aid to the Church in Need), the Portuguese branch of the international organization ACN. According to a statement released by the foundation, the event aims to highlight the plight of Christians facing persecution and discrimination worldwide.
Global ‘REDWEEK’ Campaign Amplifies Call for Religious Liberty
The lighting of Cristo Rei is part of the broader REDWEEK campaign – meaning Red Week – organized by the AIS Foundation. This global effort seeks to defend religious freedom and bring attention to the millions of Christians who endure suffering for their faith.
“Especially today, and until November 21st, Christ the King, in Almada, will join more than 600 churches and monuments around the world and light up red, the color of the blood of the martyrs, in solidarity with those who suffer for the sake of faith,” a senior official stated.
The Cristo Rei statue, located in the district of Setúbal, stands as a prominent landmark and a symbol of faith in Portugal. Its participation in this international demonstration underscores the growing global concern over the escalating persecution of Christians. The AIS Foundation hopes the visual impact of the red illumination will galvanize support for those facing hardship and inspire greater advocacy for religious liberty around the world.
This coordinated display of solidarity serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by Christian communities in many parts of the globe, and the urgent need for continued vigilance and action to protect their fundamental rights.
