In this deeply moving and eye-opening conversation, Jen Porter sits down with Vija Herefoss — theologian, human rights advocate, and global voice for persecuted women of faith — to explore the hidden realities facing Christian women around the world.
Through stories gathered from Iran, North Korea, Central Asia, and beyond, Vija shares how women are often the unseen backbone of the global church — courageously carrying faith forward in environments marked by persecution, exclusion, violence, and profound sacrifice. Yet rather than portraying these women merely as victims, she reveals them as resilient leaders, creative change agents, and powerful witnesses of hope.
Together, Jen and Vija explore:
- Why women make up the majority of the global church
- The radically dignifying way Jesus treated women
- How faith transforms families and entire communities
- Why Christian community is essential for survival in persecuted regions
- The unique forms of persecution women face
- The extraordinary courage of women leading underground churches
- The power of prayer, generosity, and global solidarity
- What the Western church can learn from believers who risk everything for Christ
One of the most compelling themes throughout the episode is this: many women around the world are holding onto their faith at tremendous personal cost — losing homes, marriages, safety, inheritance, freedom, and sometimes even their lives — yet still refusing to let go of Christ. Their stories become a profound invitation for all of us to reflect on the depth, beauty, and eternal value of faith.
Vija also shares breathtaking examples of women “gossiping the gospel” from house to house, imprisoned believers leading Bible studies behind bars, and exhausted pastors’ wives finally finding rest and encouragement through gatherings supported by Stefanus Alliance.
This conversation is both sobering and deeply hope-filled — a reminder that even in the darkest places, the light of Christ continues to shine through ordinary women living with extraordinary courage.
To learn more about the work of Stefanus Alliance International, support persecuted believers, or read stories from the global church, visit:
https://www.stefanus-usa.org/
Connect with Coach Jen Porter:
https://www.jenportercoach.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenportercoach/
Podcast: https://lioness.transistor.fm/
