For the past couple years, I have had the pleasure of serving as a NC State Advocacy Leader for the International Justice Mission (IJM). IJM is a human rights organization that rescues victims of violence against the world’s poor. It is the largest international anti-slavery organization in the world. And this year, we are inviting you and your church to take a stand against modern-day slavery by participating in Freedom Sunday.

    SEPTEMBER 25, 2016

The Facts:

• According to the Global Slavery Index, there are 35.8 million people enslaved worldwide.
• Slavery is illegal in every country in the world.
• Modern-day slavery generates an estimated $150 billion/year
• An estimated 2 Million Children are enslaved in the sex trade
• IJM frees more slaves than any other organization in the world

Get Smart:

• Go to the “Freedom Sunday” official website and watch Elsa’s (Survivor of Sex Trafficking), Gowri’s (Survivor of Bonded Labor), and Lyna’s (Evidence of how IJM’s investigative work turns into convictions) Testimonies
• Gather a group of friends and listen to Gary Haugen’s (IJM CEO) 2016 Global Prayer Gathering Charge & Freedom Sunday announcement: “Now is the Time to Sound the Alarm”

Over the course of history God has raised up the prophetic voice of his people to go before human authorities to demand that they use their God-given power to let the oppressed go free! But the people of God cannot raise their prophetic voice if they themselves are asleep. In this singular moment in history, it is time to wake up the slumbering giant that is the church!

The church needs to understand two simple things:

1. There are today more people in slavery than ever.

2. God is making it possible for the first time in history for us to end slavery for good.

Take Action:

• Dedicate one Sunday to Freedom! Host Freedom Sunday at your church on Sunday, September 25, 2016
• The “Sermon Resource Kit” includes a sermon on God’s heart for justice complete with scripture notes. Scripture reference options: Luke 4: 18-21, Isaiah 58:1-14, or Luke 10:25-37.
• IJM will provide signage, poster templates, presentations, and resources for our lobby.
• IJM will provide digital assets for every facet of the worship service, including videos, slides, and more.
• IJM will also be providing small group questions for our Community Groups, content that is age appropriate for children, a social media guide, promotional announcement slides, other components for the worship service, and help from the IJM support team.

What to do now?

1. Make the decision to take action.
2. Spread the word – Share with your pastor (get a commitment) and your friends.
3. Inform IJM of your decision and find out how they can help.