The Diocese of Bacolod expressed alarm over the number of Christians being persecuted around the world.

In a press conference yesterday morning, Diocese Social Action Center director, Rev. Fr. Chris Gonzales, said, in 2016, there were 90,000 Christians killed for following Jesus Christ.

Gonzales said the number is equivalent to one Christian being murdered every six minutes, adding, with the number further increasing.

The diocese official noted, the Philippines, which he pointed out is a predominantly Christian country, is not exempt considering the latest happenings in Marawi City, where several Christians were killed by the Maute terror group for refusing to convert to Islam.

“The call is not only for all Catholics, but to all followers of Christ, as we are currently the number one most persecuted religion in the world today,” Gonzales said.

He previously sent a release revealing the diocese would be launching Red Wednesday tomorrow, November 22, in opposition to religious persecution and to show support for the persecuted Christians.

Beginning at 5:30 p.m., a procession, mass, and lighting of the San Sebastian Cathedral in red candles will take place.

Gonzales urged participants to wear red, which signifies martyrdom.

Bacolod Bishop Patricio Buzon, meanwhile, said the prayer rally aims to raise awareness to the faithful as the number of persecuted Christians is far higher today compared to the Church’s early beginnings during Roman times.

He added, extremists are using the religion of Islam to drive a wedge between Muslims and Christians; but stated, leaders from both sides have agreed to combat religious extremism./DGB, WDJ