Red Wednesday 2026 – Press Release
Montreal, October 15, 2026 – On November 18, will you stand with persecuted Christians? In Canada, Red Wednesday is an opportunity to show solidarity, raise awareness, and pray for Christians who continue to face persecution, even in 2026. This day is part of a major international movement promoted by Aid to the Church in Need (ACN). In Canada, you can find out more, register to participate, or register an event at https://acn-canada.org/red-wednesday/.
Once again this year, Catholics across Canada—along with all those who care about human rights—are called upon to stand in solidarity with persecuted Christians around the world and to reaffirm the importance of religious freedom as a human right. Religious freedom is one of the very foundations of individual liberty, enshrined in Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
How to participate
“Whether through a time of prayer, a Mass, an informational presentation, wearing red, or sharing information about this major international movement on social media, let’s stand together to raise awareness about the realities faced by persecuted Christians and to defend the right to religious freedom,” urges Valérie Vulcain, coordinator of Red Wednesday for Canada. “This solidarity is also seen as a message of hope by those who are struggling with the scourge of persecution,” she notes.
It’s worth noting that those who are unable to participate in or organize an event on that specific day can still take part during Red Week, which takes place in Canada and around the world from November 15 to 22.
“Let’s make Red Wednesday a powerful show of solidarity! And don’t hesitate to email or call me for more information at vv@acn-canada.org or 1-800-585-6333, ext. 227,” she says, before adding: “Above all, please register on our website, whether you’re participating individually or organizing a group event: https://acn-canada.org/red-wednesday.”
Events and the release of Persecuted and Forgotten?
In Quebec, Ontario, and Alberta, events have already been announced, including Masses to be celebrated on that day at St. Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal and Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral in Montreal, St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica in Toronto, and St. John the Evangelist Church in Calgary.
Finally, the report Persecuted and Forgotten? 2024–26 will be released on October 27. Published by ACN, it will be available in PDF format on the ACN Canada website (https://www.acn-canada.org/) on the day it is released. Published every two years, alternating with the Religious Freedom in the World Report, the document provides a qualitative analysis of the situation of Christians in nearly 20 countries.
