Churches and religious sites lit up in red in solidarity with persecuted Christians worldwide

VATICAN — In solidarity with persecuted Christians in the Middle East and Africa, Catholic cathedrals, churches and buildings around the world were lit up in red to mark Red Wednesday, 20 November, which symbolizes the color of the blood shed for the preservation of the Christian faith.

Primate of All-Ireland Archbishop Eamon Martin has called on Irish Catholics to stand in solidarity with Christians who are persecuted for their faith around the world.

This step comes as churches, cathedrals and monuments across Ireland prepare to be illuminated in red on the day as part of a week-long campaign, Week of Witness, organized by the papal charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN).

Red is the traditional color of martyrdom, symbolizing the blood of Christian martyrs who have died for their faith.

The illumination of landmarks like Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in Armagh and the Basilica at the International Eucharistic and Marian Shrine in Knock, Co Mayo, will be part of the global campaign to raise awareness of the growing persecution faced by Christians in various parts of the world.

Some 300 events will be taking place in more than 20 countries, including Masses, talks, livestreams, concerts, and parliamentary discussions, running throughout the week from 18-24 November.

The UK, the U.S., Canada, Australia, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, the Philippines, Mexico, Chile and Colombia are among the countries taking part.