The event, known as The Presence, is being supported by Release International, Christian Solidarity Worldwide and Open Doors – a coming together of three major British organisations supporting Christians who are persecuted for their faith.

"Join us in praying for our Christian brothers and sisters who are suffering persecution all over the world," said Release.

"Many are imprisoned for their faith and suffer beatings and torture – simply for being Christians. What happened to the early Church is still happening today.

"Our suffering family need us to stand with them in prayer – and we who are free need to catch their overcoming faith and victory in the Lord."

The Presence takes place at the NEC in Birmingham on Saturday October 17, from 11am to 6pm. Leading the worship will be singer/songwriter Graham Kendrick, Ian Hannah and Laurence Sharman.

Guest speakers include Ian Cole and Jane Holloway, from the World Prayer Centre, who are hosting the event, Malcolm Duncan from Church and Community, and leaders of the major agencies that support the persecuted Church worldwide.

Through its international network of missions Release supports Christians imprisoned for their faith and their families in 30 nations. It supports church workers, pastors and their families, and provides training, Bibles, Christian literature and broadcasts.