As a researcher for Open Doors, I have spent these past years documenting the dire realities faced by Afghan Christians. Since the Taliban's return, their situation has gone from bad to worse. Yet, amidst the darkness, there are faint but significant signs of hope, signs of what might be a fresh beginning for these embattled believers.

Fear

Hosted in-person and virtually from six continents, Gather25 will use television broadcasts, radio, and live streams to enable Christians anywhere in the world to take part from their homes, theatres, and local churches or attend one of the live broadcast sites in person.

"We didn't know what to expect," he added. "We were praying for God to have a really big move."

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The church had invited more than 30,000 people to Raymond J Stadium where the Tampa Bay Buccaneers play and the place was packed.

"It was amazing to see it happen and be a part of that experience," Black described.

In the Diocese of Durham, £4.7 million has been awarded over seven years for plans including 20 new hubs, rooted in local churches, for ministry to children and young people. Training will also be provided for 600 people in youth and children's ministry.

The grant will also fund chaplaincy to secondary schools and support and seed funding for 25 churches to develop engagement with local secondary schools.