From Atheist to Christian Convert
Richard Wurmbrand was born into a Jewish family on March 24, 1909, in Bucharest, Romania. Initially a Marxist and self-proclaimed atheist, his life took a profound turn in 1938 when he and his wife, Sabina, embraced Christianity. This newfound faith led them down a path marked by courage and resilience.
Underground Ministry Under Communist Persecution
In 1945, as communism tightened its grip on Romania, Richard began an underground ministry, defying the oppressive regime. His defiance came at a price. On February 29, 1948, Richard was arrested on his way to church, marking the beginning of 14 years of imprisonment, three of which were spent in solitary confinement. The physical torture he endured was relentless; he was beaten, burned, confined in an icebox, and placed in a box with nails driven through the sides. Yet, his spirit remained unbroken.
Faith Unshaken Through Prison Torture
Richard's faith was rooted in love—a love even for his persecutors. He famously said, "Hate the evil systems, but love your persecutors. Love their souls, and try to win them for Christ." His resolve was further tested when he was forced to listen to communist propaganda for hours, yet he clung to his faith, believing God had orchestrated every detail of his life, even the suffering.
Testimony That Founded Voice of Martyrs
In 1964, Richard was released from prison following a ransom of $10,000 paid for his freedom. In May 1966, he stood before the U.S. Senate Internal Security Subcommittee, revealing the scars of his torture. This testimony was a powerful witness to the endurance of faith under persecution. His story, and his unwavering commitment to sharing the love of Jesus, inspired the founding of The Voice of the Martyrs in 1967.
Throughout his life, Richard's transformation from an atheist to a devoted follower of Christ remained evident. He continually shared that a faith destroyed by suffering isn't true faith. His life testified to the power of Jesus, who sustained and protected him through unimaginable trials. Even in the depths of suffering, Richard found strength in Jesus, whose love and presence were his constant companions.
