Pray for: Angola

Forty years of almost constant war (1962-2002) devastated Angola. Innocent civilians suffered most. Fighting destroyed roads, schools, hospitals, homes, and churches. Millions fled their homes. Land mines crippled over 80,000 people. 70-90% of the population live in poverty. Spiralling cost of living in the capital city (due to oil money) is in deep contrast to the deep poverty of most rural areas, and the gap between the rich and poor gets wider and wider. Deep psychological, social, and spiritual wounds will require years to overcome. Praise God for peace, and the return of many to their homes. The Church helps lead the way to reconciliation as the country works to rebuild. Pray that Christians might also help lead the way in developing the country, alleviating poverty, healing trauma, and reconciliation.

Biblical Christianity grew, even amidst war and poverty! The first president, a Marxist, vowed to eradicate Christianity in 20 years. He failed! The number of evangelicals grew 4 times larger from 1990 to 2010, and it continues to grow today. The Church needs much prayer to overcome the wounds of past conflict. Pray for forgiveness and love in action. Only a few congregations have trained pastors. False beliefs, ignorance of the Bible, witchcraft, and animistic practices pollute many lives and churches. Islam grows with its simple message and foreign financial support. Pray for Christian unity, holy living, and biblical faith.