WINCHESTER, Va. - The Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA) announced today the accreditation of Barnabas Aid USA of McLean, VA, a Christian ministry dedicated to helping Christians who suffer discrimination, oppression and persecution as a consequence of their faith.

ECFA accreditation is based on standards of responsible stewardship, including financial accountability, transparency, sound board governance and ethical fund-raising.

Barnabas Aid USA joins a growing number of churches and evangelical organizations across America, representing more than $18 billion in annual revenue, that have earned the right to display the ECFA seal. When an organization is accredited by ECFA, it demonstrates its willingness to follow the model of biblical accountability.

"We are pleased to include in our membership a ministry committed to strengthening Christian individuals, churches and their communities," said Dan Busby, acting president of ECFA.

Barnabas Aid USA supports Christians where they are a minority by providing material and spiritual support in response to needs identified by local Christian leaders. Working with existing local Christian organizations, Barnabas Aid USA makes needs known to Christians around the world and encourages prayer, advocacy and financial giving in support of these brothers and sisters in Christ.

ECFA, founded in 1979, provides accreditation to leading Christian non-profit organizations that faithfully demonstrate compliance with established standards for financial accountability, fund-raising and board governance. For more information about ECFA, including information about accreditation and a listing of ECFA-accredited members, visit www.ECFA.org or call 1-800-323-9473.