DBU Hosts Global Religious Freedom Gathering to Equip Christians for Advocacy

Dallas Baptist University recently welcomed guests from around the world for the Global Religious Freedom Gathering, hosted by DBU's Center for Global Religious Freedom and Christians Against All Persecution on October 20–21. The two-day event brought together students, faculty, church leaders, and international advocates to address the growing crisis of religious persecution and to mobilize the Christian community toward prayer and action.

Throughout the gathering, distinguished speakers and panelists provided powerful insights into the realities faced by persecuted believers worldwide. Participants heard firsthand stories of courage and faith, as well as thoughtful analysis, from leaders committed to defending religious liberty.

Among the featured speakers were Dr. Steve Bezner, Associate Professor of Pastoral Ministry and Theology at Truett Seminary and longtime pastor; Knox Thames, human rights lawyer and former U.S. State Department advisor; and Dr. Randel Everett, founder of DBU's Center for Global Religious Freedom and the 21Wilberforce Initiative. Together, they challenged attendees to respond to the global crisis through prayer, advocacy, and compassionate action.

Speakers highlighted that more than two-thirds of the world's population live in places where religious freedom is restricted, underscoring the urgent need for Christian engagement. As noted in The Dallas Morning News, the conference aimed to "mobilize Christians against religious persecution" by equipping them with the understanding and tools needed to make a difference.

The gathering also reflected DBU's mission to develop Christ-centered servant leaders who integrate faith and learning in service to others. "At DBU, we believe that defending religious freedom for people from all faith backgrounds is an extension of the Great Commandment, to love God and to love our neighbors," notes Jonathan Fechner, Chief of Staff and Executive Director of the Institute for Global Engagement. "The Gathering represents the University's commitment to equip our students, faculty, local pastors, and non-profit leaders with advocacy tools and educational resources to stand with the most oppressed and marginalized people across the world and emphasizes our efforts to be a global Christ-centered University."

Through this event, the Center for Global Religious Freedom continued its vital work of raising awareness, advancing research, and empowering the next generation of advocates to stand for those whose voices are silenced.

For more information, visit the Center for Global Religious Freedom website for future events.