17 NGOs from all over the world are releasing a statement calling for the worldwide Christian community to pray for the nation of Sri Lanka.

The statement, known as "The Toronto Statement," expresses deep concern over the handling of humanitarian efforts currently being carried out in the country, and calls on the worldwide church to pray and to support efforts to end hostilities and seek an enduring peace.

The Religious Liberty Partnership (RLP), comprises 17 member organizations including Open Doors International (Holland), Christian Solidarity Worldwide (United Kingdom), The Voice of the Martyrs (Canada), HMK (Switzerland) and the Religious Liberty Commission of World Evangelical Alliance (representing 128 countries.

"It is important that the worldwide Christian community unites with the church in Sri Lanka in addressing the devastating humanitarian situation and threats on freedom of religion" stated Mervyn Thomas, CEO of Christian Solidarity Worldwide UK (CSW) and Chairman of the Religious Liberty Partnership.  "The worldwide church can be a positive force for good in this complex situation, and we trust that this call to prayer will be heeded by Christians globally."

"I believe this Statement captures the heart of what the RLP is about, "said Floyd Brobbel of The Voice of the Martyrs (Canada) and member of the RLP Leadership Team. 

The Religious Liberty Partnership (RLP) is a collaborative effort of Christian organizations in over a dozen countries focused on religious liberty.  The RLP seeks to more intentionally work together in addressing advocacy and in raising the awareness of religious liberty issues globally.  The current membership of the RLP is listed on the Toronto Statement.

Notes to Editors:

To see the text of the Toronto statement and a list of the organisations who signed, please contact the press office.