How does one promote the faith under conditions of ‘no religious freedom’?
For one to
promote the faith under conditions of ‘no religious freedom’, we can take cue
from the Holy Scriptures especially from the example of the life of the first
believers as we see in the book of the Acts of the Apostles chapter 2: 43-47:
“Awe came upon everyone, and many wonders and signs were done
through the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in
common; they would sell their property and possessions and divide them among
all according to each one's need. Every day they devoted themselves to meeting
together in the temple area and to breaking bread in their homes. They ate
their meals with exultation and sincerity of heart, praising God and enjoying
favor with all the people. And every day the Lord added to their number those
who were being saved.”
1. Living
together in unity with fellow community can promote faith. This will awaken the
curiosity of other people that would lead them to want to know how is such
community living together and sharing everything in common thus the community
of faith becomes an example to others.
2. Another
way that one can promote faith is to be of service to others especially those
of not of the same faith. From experiences, we know that simple act of charity
touches the hearts of many and these works of mercy speaks louder than words of
doctrines.
3. Praying
for the oppressors and the government that is not open to religious freedom is
a way of promoting faith. In this situation we can take the example of the
recent Popes of our times who openly pray and ask for prayers for the situation
in China, many people were touched by this gesture that the Pope cares not only
for his flock but also those who persecute the Christians.
4. One’s
readiness and willingness to give one’s life for the sake of faith is also a
way of promotion of faith. Their sacrifice and act of love for their faith will
be a ‘witness’ which comes from the word martyrdom, would definitely touch many
who have seen such a person of faith giving one’s life for God and in service
to others.
5. In
times of persecution, one should also show joy and this is also one way of
promoting faith. People want a religion of joy not sadness and difficulties
because in life they are already going through hardships, so joy attracts
others.
6. Dialoguing
with other people of faith helps to promote faith too because others will
understand what the faith is all about especially if it is in a country or
situation where they have never heard of such religion.
7. Another
way of promoting faith is to encourage the lay faithful who is capable to enter
into the politics so as to eventually influence the government to promote and
allow religious freedom.
