All across the UK tonight iconic facades were illuminated in the color of blood. #RedWednesday, as it has been named, is a commemoration for those who were killed for their faith, a stand in solidarity for those still living in fear and targeted because of their faith and a stand against religious persecution. Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Cathedral, even the giant London Eye ferris wheel lit up red.

#RedWednesday is a campaign promoted by the Vatican organization Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) to help “persecuted and oppressed Christians around the world through prayer, information and action.” ACN asks people to “Make a stand for faith and freedom,” by wearing red, sharing #RedWednesday selfies on social media and praying for the persecuted.

"The Colour of Blood": London turns red to mark millions killed for their faith.https://t.co/k2yML0uArv#RedWednesday pic.twitter.com/6N8Mfy1m4N

— Harry Farley (@HarryFarls) November 23, 2016

A prayer service was held in front of Westminster Cathedral, faith-based speakers gave presentations, and music and films were played. Holy Mass was available in the Cathedral. ACN’s website states that:

Red Wednesday is a big opportunity to stand up for faith and freedom and to put pressure on the UK government and the international community to protect people of faith, find solutions to the problems that are fueling extremist violence and to make our world a safer place.

“Red Wednesday is a chance to show solidarity with victims of genocide, persecution and discrimination,” explained Lord David Alton of Liverpool, former Member of the House of Commons and current independent crossbench life peer. “For too many people, living their faith can cost them their lives. Red Wednesday is a practical way to use the freedoms we enjoy, but which they are denied, to show that we have not forgotten those whose blood is being shed on a daily basis for their faith.”

Cathedrals, Synagogues, mosques, universities and a town hall joined the #RedWednesday challenge to turn the ‘color of blood.’ Professor Michael Whitby, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Head of the College of Arts and Law at the University of Birmingham said that no one should be persecuted because of their faith. He added:

In turning Old Joe [university clock tower] red we demonstrate our solidarity with anyone persecuted for their faith. We hope to give them some comfort that their cry has been heard and we are taking a small step to highlight the persecution of millions of people because of their beliefs.

Amazing scenes at @WestminsterCath – hundreds of people Making a stand for Faith and Freedom. #RedWednesday pic.twitter.com/1n9fq1hx53

— Aid to the Church (@acn_uk) November 23, 2016