1960-63

Communism tightly grasps the East. Communist officials have little tolerance for those like Pastor Wurmbrand who refuse to deny Christ and worship the government. Many are imprisoned and tortured for years.

1964

Pastor Wurmbrand is released from prison and resumes his work. Two Westerners cautiously make their way to the attic home of the Wurmbrands to see if the stories of Christians being imprisoned under communism are true. This is the first contact the Wurmbrands have with outside missionaries since their arrests.

1965

Norwegian officials ransom the Wurmbrand family out of Romania for $10,000 USD. Though Romanian officials warn Pastor Wurmbrand never to speak of his prison experiences, he and Sabina embark on an international speaking tour.

1966

In May, Pastor Wurmbrand testifies in Washington, D.C., before the Senate's Internal Security Subcommittee. His story spreads rapidly across the U.S. and the world.

1967

Pastor Wurmbrand begins Jesus to the Communist World Inc. (JTTCW), later named The Voice of the Martyrs, in the United States and publishes his book Tortured for Christ. After reading the book, many Christians leave secular careers to serve the persecuted Church. Offices open around the world. A Dutch copy of Tortured for Christ reaches Klaas and Nellie Brobbel in St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada.

1969-70

Nellie hears Pastor Wurmbrand speak in Hamilton, Ontario. She begins raising awareness of the persecuted Church by organizing rummage sales, mailing proceeds to the Wurmbrands’ office in California. She arranges a speaking engagement for Pastor Wurmbrand in London, Ontario. Nellie applies for the position of secretary in Canada.