In 1964, the first ever Operation World was published. It consisted of 32 pages, with hand-drawn maps, and included short sections on four regions (South America, Europe, Asia, Africa), 25 countries/country clusters, and two global ministries (Christian radio and Christian literature). It was reproduced on a Gestetner machine (technology from the 1800s) in apartheid-era South Africa.
That publication came into existence as fervently praying African Christians wanted to expand the scope of their intercession beyond their own lands out to nations about which they had little knowledge. From these humble beginnings, seven editions of Operation World and other related publications have distributed millions of copies, translated into over 20 languages.
To commemorate these past 60 years, we asked people from around the world to share how Operation World and the ministry of Patrick Johnstone impacted their lives. From academics and authors to pastors and missionaries, from global CEOs to anonymous intercessors, their testimonies have greatly encouraged us. We hope they will encourage you as well.
Thank you, Patrick, for your faithful service and devotion to making Christ known, loved, and worshipped throughout the earth.
For the first in a short blog series reflecting on the original edition of Operation World, go here. If you have your own testimony about how OW or Patrick impacted your life, write to us via the Contact Us page.