LEWISTON – Micki Merrill of Somersworth, Mass., the New England representative of Voice of the Martyrs, will speak at 7 p.m. Saturday, May 19, at the New Life Christian Fellowship’s Community Center, 134 College St.

The Voice of the Martyrs is a nonprofit, interdenominational organization with a vision for aiding Christians around the world who are being persecuted for their faith in Christ, fulfilling the Great Commission and educating the world about the ongoing persecution of Christians.

The group was started in 1967 by Pastor Richard Wurmbrand, who was imprisoned and tortured for more than eight years by the Romanian Communist Government for his evangelical efforts in the underground church following the end of World War II.

His wife, Sabrina, was also arrested and assigned to forced labor. Their 9-year-old son, Mihai, was abandoned to live on the streets. Mrs. Wurmbrand’s family perished in the extermination of Jews in concentration camps.

The Wurmbrand family was ransomed from Romania for $10,000 and Richard was warned by the secret police to remain silent. The Wurmbrands travel to Scandinavia and England before arriving in the United States.

In May 1965, the pastor testified in Washington, D.C., before the Senate’s Internal Security Subcommittee. His story spread and he received speaking requests. His ministry has grown worldwide. More information can be found at www.persecution.com.

Merrill will share reports and statistics about the rise of persecution, imprisonments and killings against Christians worldwide.

A time of refreshments, fellowship and music will begin at 6:30 p.m. A question-and-answer time will follow. The hall is handicapped-accessible and all are welcome. For more information, call the center at 782-3939 or Missions Director Bruce Turmenne at 576-7311.