Here are some simple guidelines to help you as you write your letters and cards:

» Pray before you start

Ask God to give you the right words to communicate.

» Share God’s Word

For Bible verses in other languages, visit

www.biblegateway.com.

» Show sensitivity

Please don’t dwell on the recipient’s plight, or share about the blessings of life in your country.

» Translation

Write in simple English, or if you are able, in the recipient’s language.

» Keep it short and simple

Long letters are more expensive to send.

» Feel free to include your details

It’s fine to include your name and country but not your full address.

» Postcards
If you are writing a postcard, send it in an envelope rather than writing Open Doors’ address on the card

» Handmade cards
If you are a Sunday School or youth group leader, making cards can be a great way of allowing younger people to respond and do something to connect with suffering Christians. Please note that any cards or pictures sent must be small, light and not too fragile for posting.

! Security

Please DO NOT mention Open Doors in your letters, and do not criticise a country’s religion, government, judicial system or political leaders. If you are writing a postcard, send it in an envelope rather than writing the Open Doors’ address on the card.

» Gifts

If you include money in your letter or card to go to the believers featured in this Letter-writing Guide, Open Doors will not be able to forward your gift on. It is unsafe and can also cause severe difficulties for the recipient.

Prayer Points:

Please do keep a prayerful attitude as you write your letter or card. Once you've put it in the post, remember to pray for the brother or sister you've written to.

Please pray...

• That your letter will arrive safely at its destination. 

• That the recipient will be blessed by what you've written and comforted by the knowledge that you are joining in their struggles by praying for them (Romans 15:30).

• For the Lord's peace to guard the heart and mind of your recipient - and their family - as they endure suffering for the sake of the Lord (Philippians 4:7).

• That God will give the recipient strength to persevere, and that they will know the Lord's compassion and mercy (James 5:11).

---