Operation World:
Mongolia –The growth of Christianity in modern Mongolia is truly an answer to prayer! Perhaps only 4 Mongolian believers existed in 1989, but by 2010 over 40,000 believers worshipped in hundreds of churches and groups around the country! Today, that number is larger still, and the Mongolian Church is growing not just in numbers but in maturity and contextualized expression. The Church is less than one generation old, but it already sends missionaries to unreached areas, runs national ministries, and develops its own Mongolian–style worship music. (Reported in – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/09-03/, 3rd Sept 2024 – Operation World)
Malawi – Malawi faces serious challenges in the future, such as the combination of poverty, high population growth and increasing pressure on agricultural land. High levels of national debt, AIDS and unemployment, when added to the aforementioned economic factors, produce challenges that will require wisdom, long-term planning and proactive policies by the government. The grip of poverty hampers development not only in the financial sense but also in terms of education, AIDS prevention, family life and even effective ministry and discipleship. (Reported in – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/08-20/, 20th Aug 2024 – Operation World)
South Korea – Praise God for the unique Korean Church! From the 1st Protestant congregation in 1884, South Korea now has as many as 50,000. God blessed the Church with a series of revivals, and refined it through times of persecution. Now its leadership is well–trained, and its strong missions vision is an example to the world. Korea has some of the largest congregations in the world, and Christians impact all levels of society. The South Korean Church commits itself to sacrificial and passionate prayer, with early morning and evening prayer meetings, every day and all night! At the same time, corruption and scandals in church leadership and an inability to connect well with the younger generation means that South Korean Christianity faces rapid decline and decreasing cultural relevance. (Reported in – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/08-06/, 6th Aug 2024 – Operation World)
Kazakhstan – Kazakhstan has abundant natural resources, but too much of this wealth remains in the possession of the powerful elite. Kazakhstan’s first president ruled as an autocrat for nearly 30 years, before anti-government protests prompted his resignation. After significant turmoil and a new president, the country has the opportunity to establish a new course. The new leader may continue to take Kazakhstan beyond its autocratic past, or fall back into those familiar patterns. (Reported in – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/07-30/#kazakhstan, 30th July 2024 – Operation World)
Iraq – Iraq suffered great upheaval in 1991 (with the Gulf War), in 2003 (with the 2nd Iraq War and the fall of Saddam Hussein), yet again in 2013 with the rise of ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria), and then in 2018 and beyond with widespread civil unrest and a broken political system. (Reported in – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/07-18/, 18th July 2024 – Operation World)
India – Odisha state has more intense persecution of Christians than anywhere else in India. In many districts, Christians must either reconvert to Hinduism, leave their village, or face death. We pray that churches might grow in unity, and in their ability to withstand persecution. Despite the troubles, the Church multiplies rapidly, mostly among tribal and Dalit peoples. 709 of the 799 people groups in Odisha have no Christians, according to a census. We pray for the effective use of audio Scripture, and Christian radio and TV programmes, as illiteracy is common. (Reported in – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/07-02/, 2nd July 2024 – Operation World)
Nei Mongol – Tibet–Xizang, Xinjiang Uyghur. Over 48 million people live here. Only around 6.6% are Christian. Tibet was briefly an independent Buddhist state until 1950, when China invaded. Many Tibetans resist the occupation. The government has destroyed over 6,000 monasteries. More than 1 million people may have died, and another 100,000 Tibetans now live in exile in Nepal, India, and the West. Tibetan Buddhism has a powerful hold on the people. (Reported in – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/04-19/ , 19th April 2024 – Operation World)
Asian/World Prayer News:
Pakistan – Violence has risen in the border region since the Afghan Taliban came to power three years ago. Attacks numbered over 650 last year, with 23 percent occurring in Balochistan. “These attacks cause the loss of innocent lives, widespread destruction of infrastructure, and severe disruption of daily life,” Nehemiah says. The internment center decision follows a series of attacks that killed 74 people in Balochistan in late August. Gunmen shot at least 23 people after pulling them from their vehicles and identifying them as Punjabi citizens. “The group’s ability to orchestrate such a complex attack raises significant concerns about the effectiveness of Pakistani intelligence,” Nehemiah says. “These attacks across multiple locations point to meticulous planning and substantial resources.” Gospel work continues despite the latest uptick in risk.
We pray for church planters to be filled with the Holy Spirit, preaching the Gospel boldly, and offering hope and encouragement to those are in need. We pray for comfort and healing for those who lost loved ones in the attacks. We pray for peace in Balochistan and an end to violence and conflict & for church planters for strength, courage, wisdom and boldness to share hope. (Reported by Katey Hearth, https://www.mnnonline.org/news/pakistan-plans-internment-centers-following-latest-balochistan-massacre/ – 11th Sept 2024 – Mission News Network)
Bangladesh – Things have since calmed in the streets of Dhaka, Bangladesh’s capital, but violence continues in remote communities. Anthony says, “Hindus and Christians are feeling very vulnerable right now. People see these minorities as cooperatives to the former government.” Although the population of Muslim–majority Bangladesh is only eight percent Hindu and less than one percent Christian, these small percentages don’t offer protection. Attackers recently targeted a Hindu family living near one of FMI’s national leaders. “A group of 10 attacked their house and raped the wife and mother, which ended up putting her in the hospital,” Anthony says. “There’s a great pressure to ‘hunker down’ and do what you can to protect your family. At the same time, there is tremendous (Gospel) opportunity.”
FMI supports national leaders and church planters in Bangladesh. Learn how you can come alongside their work here. Ask the Lord to supernaturally protect believers and other targeted minorities. “They’re scared. They’re feeling very vulnerable. Pastor Rajeeb [has] been robbed a couple of times, and he said it would not take much for people to do it again,” Anthony says. “We’re praying that the Lord’s protection when there is no police would be a testimony to the reality of the God that Christians are following: Jesus Christ.” We pray for the banking system to resume normal operations and for the police to increase patrols in vulnerable areas. We pray the interim government holds elections on schedule and can establish a permanent government.
(Reported by Katey Hearth, https://www.mnnonline.org/news/religious-minorities-still-face-violence-in-bangladesh/ – 10th Sept 2024 – Mission News Network)
Myanmar – Earlier this month, Myanmar’s ruling military junta lost a key base in the city of Lashio in Shan State to rebel forces. The rebel alliance is largely made up of ethnic and religious minorities standing against the State Administration Council, which has used brutal tactics against civilians since seizing power in 2021. A man we’ll call Peter serves with A3 in Myanmar. “They’re losing a lot of men, and they’re losing a lot of land too, and mostly in Christian areas.” Peter says churches in the war zones are getting hit hard but non-believers are seeing Christ’s love contradict the propaganda they’ve heard about Christians. “The juntas, their teachings are like, ‘They will just kill you straight away. These Christians are ruthless, they’re barbarians,'” Peter says. “But when these non-believers want to fight back, they run into the jungles, [and] it was a whole different story how these Christians welcomed them with open arms, giving them food, support, help.”
The future is unsure, but Peter says gospel ministry is spreading for now. Churches give shelter and medical care to refugees. We pray for strong faith among Christians fighting in the rebel forces + for the war to end and for strong leaders who will govern Myanmar for the best interests of its people. (Reported by Katie O'Malley, https://www.mnnonline.org/news/myanmar-junta-loses-grip-on-northern-city-churches-serve-refugees/ – 28th August 2024 – Mission News Network)
Tajikistan – Less than one percent of Tajikistan’s population is Christian, and believers are rare in rural districts and villages. Christians can’t gather legally and face persecution if they confess their faith. We pray for In the World of Women’s Thoughts to be a great support and encouragement to Christian women in the Persian world as they serve a diverse audience across Iran, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan; for “each country has its distinct culture, history, people, and variety of Persian, and it is crucial to us as a ministry to ensure that our viewers can hear about God’s love in their own heart languages.”
We pray that “Tajik women will be empowered to claim their identity in Christ and confidently stand in faith as they face the challenges of life.” We also pray that SAT–7 PARS to find new Christian presenters from Tajikistan and Afghanistan who can appear on TV without any security concerns.
(Reported by Katey Hearth, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/new-sat-7-program-reaches-isolated-believers-in-tajikistan / 27th August 2024 – Mission News Network)
Russia – We pray for peace and an end to the war between Russia and Ukraine as “people who have lost everything are coming to these churches. They’re hearing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and coming to faith, and you can see their faces wholly transformed” as Eric Mock said it. We also pray for these difficult circumstances to lead people to realize their need for Christ. (Reported by Katey Hearth, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/russian-churches-offer-help-and-hope-to-newly-displaced-crowds/, 23rd August 2024 – Mission News Network)
Bangladesh – Student protestors seek justice while Bangladesh’s interim government struggles to maintain order. Police officers refuse to return to work. Many vanished from their posts after facing mob violence for their role in hundreds of protester deaths. “It’s (Bangladesh is) ruled by the mob right now. When you have hundreds of people gathering, who will step in the way of that?” FARMS International’s Scott Clifton says. “The military hasn’t been able to maintain order. The police force hasn’t been able to maintain order. It’s affecting anybody who’s [in] a minority group.”
“The first step for our contacts in the country is survival,” Clifton says. “They’re praying, they’re taking it moment by moment. Once there is stability, there will be an assessment of the damage and a plan made about how to move forward.” “Our action item is to pray, to appeal to God on behalf of all the believers in Bangladesh,” Clifton says.
We pray for attacks on religious minorities to stop. We ask the Lord to protect believers, and use these hardships to advance the Gospel + for a peaceful resolution to the current conflict and an end to economic pressure. (Reported by Katey Hearth, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/bangladesh-our-days-of-terror-are-not-over-yet/, 16th Aug 2024 – Mission News Network)
Pakistan – Torrential monsoon rains have killed 38 people in the last two days in northwestern Pakistan. FMI’s Bruce Allen says, “The Pakistani Meteorological Society [is] expecting heavy rainfall to continue, so it’s just going to be compounded in the days ahead.” The latest deluge follows record-breaking rainfall last week, leading to historic flooding in Lahore and Punjab provinces. Some areas saw 14 inches of rain in three hours.
“We have several church planting partners in that area, and they have been impacted,” Allen says. “Our national director in Pakistan sent me videos [and] photos; you could tell he was very distressed and weary. He had a flooded first floor, and the floor above was also affected due to all the rains.” Allen says that “because it’s a crisis, people are more open” to Gospel conversations. “They’re frantic, so spiritually, they have questions – Does God care for me? Why does He allow these things?” he states.
We pray for our partners as they deal with these impacted communities [and try] to get food to people as the whole city is devastated and needing food & water to replace lots “of deprivation in the days ahead.”
We pray that first responders can reach isolated areas cut off by washed out bridges + for Christians shine as bright lights and are creative in responding to needs. We pray for the stamina of FMI partners, including the national director, as they help impacted communities get food and respond to needs. We pray that God multiplies supplies and stretches resources, as with Elijah and the widow and for FMI partners to address spiritual and theological questions that arise from the crisis. (Reported by Katey Hearth, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/pakistans-record-breaking-rainfall-leaves-believers-homeless/, 6th Aug 2024 – Mission News Network)
International –International Media Ministries uses media to bring Jesus to Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. They have produced The Heritage Project, a docuseries that explores early Christians’ lives in North Africa under the Roman government. “Culture and religion get into the same conflicts, whether intentional or accidental. I just find it fascinating that [history] does repeat,” says Denise Godwin, the president of International Media Ministries.
Under the Roman Empire, the early Church did not adhere to societal norms like sacrificing to the gods or abusing slaves, which threatened Roman culture in the eyes of the other citizens. “The Christians were drawing some really hard lines that were offensive to the culture in Rome. Even a few centuries later, [the lines were] offensive to the culture of the Visigoths, who wanted a different version of Christianity,” Godwin says.
Godwin suggests the Church look to the lives of its founding men and women for guidance in the issues Christians face today. “In different time periods in Christian history, we’re able to love the persecutors. We’re able to communicate grace and mercy, even when people are in disagreement with us. It’s a huge challenge in our society today. And what we see is they had a very similar challenge,” Godwin says.
We pray for the Heritage Project to be translated into more languages. We pray for the Heritage Project to encourage the Church to stand unified and strong. We pray for IMM as they work to share God's Word and His Church's stories with the world.
(Reported by Louise Lamb – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/conflict-shutters-megavoice-studios-in-middle-east-southeast-asia/, 30th July 2024 – Mission News Network)
Lebanon – Israel and Lebanon prepare for new and intensified fighting following Saturday’s rocket strike on a soccer field in the Golan Heights. The attack killed 12 children and teens, one of the highest civilian casualties since Israel-Hezbollah fighting began in October. Although Israel and the U.S. blame Hezbollah for the strike, the terror group denies responsibility. Prompted by the Gaza war, fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has been the highest since the two went to war in 2006. The people of southern Lebanon suffer daily. Approximately “98 – 10,000 families have been internally displaced; 58 Lebanese schools or educational centers are now closed; most churches are closed,” Atema says.
We ask the Lord to give believers continued courage to carry on Gospel work. We pray for God’s wisdom, clarity, and protection over Heart for Lebanon teams. (Reported by Katey Hearth, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/golan-heights-attack-intensifies-fighting-in-lebanon/, 30th July 2024 – Mission News Network)
International –Gaza and Ukraine aren’t the only areas of active conflict today. Wars and rumors of war persist on every continent except Antarctica. According to one conflict tracker, political violence rose 22 percent globally in the last five years. Ongoing incursions are directly affecting Gospel work. “We have studios in Southeast Asia and the Middle East that have been closed down because of the conflicts in the area,” Darrell Templeton with MegaVoice says. “We’re way behind on recordings; people can’t move around. They can’t safely come and go.”
In Southeast Asia, “a lot of the churches have been destroyed, and the government just looks the other way. Curfews are in place, and people don’t feel safe moving around,” Templeton says; yet, portable studios provide a temporary workaround, allowing teams to create Scripture engagement tools. We praise God for providing a second audio option that helps people connect with Jesus in their heart language.
We pray “for the peace in the region, that we’ll be able to either bring the people out and/or things will calm down enough so we can get their studios back up and running and get the recordings completed,” Templeton says. We also pray for peace in conflict zones, and that believers can complete recordings despite difficult circumstances. (Reported by Katey Hearth – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/conflict-shutters-megavoice-studios-in-middle-east-southeast-asia/, 15th July 2024 – Mission News Network)
Russia – Eric Mock with Slavic Gospel Association says that “about 69% of the (Russian) population would respond that they are predominantly Christian. But a lot of that comes through tradition and Orthodoxy, with less than 1% of them being Protestant, and probably less than half of 1% of the population being evangelical”, yet believers in Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan and parts of southern Russia experience several challenges. “One challenge, especially in southern Russia, is if [they are] evangelical believers, they are seen as set apart from Russian Orthodoxy,” Mock says.
While many members of the Russian Orthodox Church have true faith in Christ, for others there is the danger of simply following tradition without having a living, growing relationship with God. And, it decreases as you go farther south in Russia, where a second cultural challenge is present. In Russia’s Republic of Dagestan, government statistics say that 95% of the population identifies as Muslim.
The form of Islam in that region is more conservative,” Mock explains. “In conservative Islam they hold very tightly to the view that anyone who prays in the name of Jesus or worships Jesus as God is a blasphemer.” Conservative Muslims accept that Jesus is an honored prophet. But they denounce any Christian who calls Jesus the Son of God. This persuasion runs so deep that they believe Allah is honored by such a Christian’s death or destruction.
We pray for endurance with joy for Christians in southern Russia in the midst of cultural pressures and rejection. Ask God to call more people in Dagestan to faith in Christ + for God to “[add] to their number daily” (Acts 2:47). (Reported by Katie O'Malley, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/fear-or-faith-believers-in-southern-russia-show-the-way/, 10th July 2024 – Mission News Network)
Saudi Arabia – The Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca, known as the Hajj, became a death march last week. In Saudi Arabia, over 1,300 pilgrims died in a heatwave. Scorching temperatures soared to over 115 degrees Fahrenheit. The Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and a requirement for every Muslim. Bruce Allen with FMI says, “Saudi authorities try to control the flow of pilgrims through quotas, allowing each country one pilgrim for every 1,000 Muslim citizens. People are just hoping that this year, I will be one of the ones who is allowed to go in – whether they’re going from Indonesia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Netherlands, or wherever they may live.
“But there are unofficial pilgrims who also come because they’re told to. Their religion says you must perform this act.”Roughly one–quarter the size of the US in terms of land mass, Saudi Arabia is mostly desert and is one of the few countries in the world with no rivers; instead, there are some wadis – valleys with river beds – which may occasionally collect water. The average annual rainfall in most areas of the country is below 6″. Less than 2% of the land is arable. Unofficial pilgrims on the Hajj didn’t have the same access to shaded pavilions and water as registered pilgrims. The Saudi Health Minister reported 83% of those fatalities were unauthorized pilgrims. We pray for Muslims around the world to know the truth in Jesus Christ. We pray for FMI to connect with Christians in Saudi Arabia and discern ways to unify and expand the Church. We pray for Muslims to know the living water of Jesus Christ. Ask God to give FMI wisdom as they support the Church in Saudi Arabia.
(Reported by Lyndsey Koh, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/last-weeks-hajj-became-a-death-march-in-the-heat/, 28th June 2024 – Mission News Network)
Israel–Iran @ War Zone:
Iran – Kids are a critical yet unreached demographic in Iran. “Children are not exempt from the pain that the people of Iran are suffering today. We have a pretty formalized, permissive structure in Iran that allows the abuse of children,” Silk says. “Child marriage is a reality; children who are abused have no course of action. Then, we’ve got hundreds of thousands of children who are abandoned. The children of Iran face poverty, a lack of freedom, and an uncertain future.
“There are millions of children in Iran under the age of 12. Our estimates show eight to 10 million,” Silk says. Do pray that children will understand their worth in God’s eyes as they learn about Christ and His love through Transform Iran’s materials. We pray for those who respond to the Gospel are discipled and mentored so that they can grow in a meaningful faith in Jesus Christ. (Reported by Katey Hearth, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/kids-are-a-critical-yet-unreached-demographic-in-iran/, 5th Sept 2024 – Mission News Network)
Iran – Failed attempts to secure a ceasefire and hostage release deal last week raise fears about Iran’s promised retaliation against Israel. Iranian leaders said previously that they didn’t want to disrupt the peace talks between Hamas and Israel. However, now that negotiations are at a stalemate, analysts say Iran could feel pressured by its allies to respond. This would expand the current war beyond Gaza.
“Jesus has said He could come back at any day, and we must be ready for Him,” Transform Iran’s Lana Silk says. “When you’re serving in an environment like Iran, where persecution is so heavy and now we’re talking about the threat of war, that sense of urgency is heightened,” she continues. “We need to make sure the Iranian people have heard the Gospel and had an opportunity to respond before it’s too late.”
Transform Iran specializes in reaching Iranians for Christ and helping new believers learn to follow Jesus in Iran. We pray for the Lord to bless Transform Iran’s efforts to make Christ known and disciple new believers in Iran. (Reported by Katey Hearth, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/uncertainty-increases-gospel-urgency-in-iran/, 26th August 2024)
Israel – The United States Pentagon press secretary says an Iranian attack on Israel is possible this week. The U.S. is beefing up its show of military force by sending an additional Carrier Strike Group and missile submarine to the region. Meanwhile, Israelis are preparing their bomb shelters for potentially longer stays if Iran or one of its proxies attacks. Many Israelis have bomb shelters in their homes. But many more who live in older homes have to stay in shared community bomb shelters. “Visiting those bomb shelters, I can tell you it was a very difficult scene,” says Pochtar. “You see sick people, very old people, [and] women with young children or even with infants.” Yet, he adds, “We came to distribute food, and we’re ready to do it again.”
We pray for Israelis that they would not be trapped in a spirit of fear but would know the confidence and hope of the Gospel. Pochtar says, “We pray that they really will be seeking God because that’s promised that if they will seek God – not just religion, but God – they will find Jesus.” We ask God to use believers in Israel and conduits of His love + praying for protection and safety over Israel. (Reported by Lyndsey Koh, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/israelis-prepping-bomb-shelters-in-light-of-iranian-threats/, 15th Aug 2024 – Mission News Network)
Iran – Reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian wins Iran’s runoff election, surpassing hardliner rival Saeed Jalili by 2.8 million votes. On Sunday, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei met with members of former president Ebrahim Raisi’s cabinet to “set expectations” for the president–elect. Pezeshkian has never held a high–security post before. The cardiac surgeon promises to ease tensions with the West and improve social freedoms. However, many Iranians doubt his ability to fulfill those promises, as Khamenei holds the highest authority in the Islamic Republic. Unknown Nations’ Greg Kelley says, “There’s [still] going to be human rights atrocities, lack of religious freedom, targeting of minority people groups, [and] crackdowns on people standing up for freedom. So, we need to pray for the Iranian people because they are in the crosshairs of the enemy.”
Gospel work continues, thanks to opportunities in nearby countries like Iraq. Because Western sanctions stymie Iran’s economy, believers are “leaving Iran to get goods, services, supplies [in a neighboring country], and then they’re going back into Iran,” Kelley explains. We pray for the continued protection of believers willing to risk everything to share Christ. We pray that Unknown Nations can get the resources needed to distribute more solar-powered audio Bibles in Persian languages. “There are Iranian followers of Jesus who are eager to share the Good News amongst their brothers and sisters inside Iran because they know that [the] Gospel is the only hope,” Kelley says. We pray that they have boldness and courage as they share the Gospel inside of Iran.” (Reported by Katey Hearth, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/unexpected-leader-takes-the-helm-in-iran/, 9th July 2024 – Mission News Network)
Iran – The shadows of conflict, proxy wars, and economic trouble hangs over the winner of Iran’s snap elections. On Friday, voters were to elect a new leader to replace former president Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash in May. However, no one had a clear win, which prompted a run-off on July 5. Transform Iran’s Lana Silk says, “It is a case of a parent saying to their child, ‘Do you want to put your shoes on or shall I?’ The final outcome has been decided; you’re giving an illusion of choice.”
Iran’s Hezbollah backing in Lebanon has dragged the country to the brink of war with Israel. That’s unlikely to change, adds Silk. “They (Iran’s government) have been very open and say that they want to wipe out Israel. That has been their agenda right from the beginning. They haven’t hidden it.” She urges believers to pray urgently, being mindful of Iran’s influence in the region. Even as the overt hostility continues with propaganda scenes of school children learning that America and Israel are the ‘Great and Little Satan,’ something has shifted. “The Iranian people have recognized the fallacy here and don’t want the agenda their government is pushing, but the government is still focused on that as an end game.”
Iran may see little political change in a new administration, but the change comes from inside. Silk urges us to ask God to intervene in Iran. We pray for God’s mercy, protection, and kingdom to grow. We pray for the new administration. We pray that Jesus appears to people in their dreams and visions and turns their hearts to Him. We pray that God does these incredible, miraculous things and turns His country to himself. We ask God to intervene in Iran + for Iranians searching for hope to put their faith in Jesus Christ. (Reported by R.B. Klama, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/ministry-leaders-pray-for-iran-as-new-president-takes-charge/, 1st July 2024 – Mission News Network)
Israel–Palestinian + Hamas Conflict:
Lebanon – In April, UNICEF issued a report on children in Lebanon, saying that what was then six months of conflict had led to deteriorated education, healthcare, water access and emotional well-being for them. A full-scale war would be devastating for their futures. Nuna with Triumphant Mercy Lebanon says that although fears are pressing the nation, they strive against it. This year, TM Lebanon summer camps gave kids a brief safe space where they could have fun and learn about the God who they can trust. Kids were able to laugh with friends, play games, watch Bible story skits and more. Nina says some of the kids had never heard about David and Goliath, Jonah, and other well–known stories from the Bible. They were mesmerized by the skits that leaders put on to retell these stories.
We pray for the ministers of the gospel to be refreshed, that they will not give in to the news – the news that spreads fear and anxiety and gloom. We pray for “our team members who have to fight this every day, as they come against all the news that they are hearing every day” especially all the mothers that are coming with news, all the kids that are coming stressed” having to always and every day fight. We pray for the gospel of hope to spread in Lebanon among kids and their families, and for God to refresh gospel workers with His Spirit that they will not give in to despair over grim national news. (Reported by Katie O'Malley, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/children-in-lebanon-find-relief-at-summer-camp-amid-threats-of-war/, 3rd Sept 2024 – Mission News Network)
Israel – The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) began raids in the West Bank last week, continuing efforts to dismantle Hamas and its leadership. On Thursday, the IDF reported the successful elimination of Islamic Jihad commander Muhhamad Jabber. This marks the latest phase in the ongoing conflict in the Holy Land – a war that is taking a toll on both Israeli soldiers and civilians, who are feeling the strain of the economic impact. Pastor Israel Pochtar of Beit Hallel Congregation in Ashdod says, “The needs are great because the military expenses are very high and it’s affecting the Israeli economy. The prices are growing, the economy is suffering, and we’re going to see consequences more and more because this war is very costly.”
Despite the challenges, the light of Christ is breaking through. Beit Hallel Congregation actively supports Israeli Christians in the military. Pochtar estimates there are at least 1,000 Christian Israeli soldiers, including 35 from his church. He also has two sons in Israel’s military. We pray for Israeli Christians in the military representing Christ. We ask God to encourage Israelis struggling with spiritual hope. (Reported by Lyndsey Koh, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/christian-soldiers-are-a-light-for-christ-in-israels-military/, 2nd Sept 2024 – Mission News Network)
Lebanon – We pray for peace in the Middle East & for the widespread tension to deescalate as fear and fighting escalate in Lebanon as the U.S. pushes for peace between Israel and Hamas. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken warned Israeli leaders that this week’s talks could be the last chance for a Gaza ceasefire. Diplomats hope a peace agreement will halt movement toward a regional war. Meanwhile, Hezbollah and Israel trade attacks in southern Lebanon, killing ten. “Every little crack, every little sound is watched very carefully and brings up the worst [fear in] us because, again, we’re human beings, and we do fear for our lives,” Heart for Lebanon’s Camille Melki says. Gospel workers serve diligently near conflict zones in southern Lebanon, offering the hope of Christ to those who flee Hezbollah hot spots. We ask the Lord to strengthen and encourage believers who have chosen to stay in Lebanon and help people rather than leave the country.
(Reported by Katey Hearth, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/fighting-escalates-in-lebanon-amid-gaza-peace-talks, 20th Aug 2024 – Mission News Network)
Lebanon – The United Kingdom and Egyptian governments ask airlines to avoid Iranian and Lebanese airspace as Middle East tensions rise. The region remains on edge, awaiting Iran’s promised retaliation for the Hamas and Hezbollah leaders killed last week. Heart for Lebanon’s Camille Melki says, “We’re praying that Iran settles with a proxy response. But if Iran shells across the borders into Israel, the response from Israel and other nations is going to be huge.” We pray for peace in the Middle East + for the widespread tension to deescalate. We ask the Lord to strengthen and encourage believers who have chosen to stay in Lebanon and help people rather than leave the country. (Reported by Katey Hearth, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/israel-considers-preemptive-strike-on-hezbollah/, 9th Aug 2024 – Mission News Network)
Lebanon – Residents are reportedly leaving Lebanon’s capital city in droves, and hospitals are preparing for “emergency” cases. Lebanon remains on a knife’s edge following last week’s Israeli killing of a Hezbollah commander in a Beirut suburb. Heart for Lebanon’s Tom Atema says the tension is tangible, and questions abound. Airlines are canceling flights to Israel and Lebanon and avoiding Iranian airspace as concerns grow of a regional war. Heart for Lebanon’s team sees Gospel opportunities amid widespread fear. “This is our Esther moment,” Atema notes. We pray for committed believers to reach hundreds of kids with the hope and peace of Christ. We pray for the Lord to give Heart for Lebanon leaders and teams protection, wisdom, clarity, and creativity as they reach out for entire families for Christ. (Reported by Katey Hearth, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/gospel-opportunities-arise-from-widespread-fear-in-lebanon/ 5th Aug 2024 – Mission News Network)
Iran – In a shocking turn of events, Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated on Wednesday in Iran’s capital city, Tehran. It was initially believed that Haniyeh was killed in a targeted airstrike. However, a new report from The New York Times says a bomb was smuggled months in advance into the Tehran guesthouse where Haniyeh was often known to stay. The assassination has sparked outrage and promises of retaliation from Iran, which has vowed revenge against Israel – although Israel has not officially claimed responsibility for the attack. We pray for Iranians to seek Jesus, amidst growing conflict and uncertainty; we ask God to use SAT–7’s broadcasts to connect with people in Iran who need biblical hope. We pray for peace in the region. (Reported by Lyndsey Koh, – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/iran-vows-vengeance-after-hamas-leader-assassinated-in-tehran/, 2nd August 2024 – Mission News Network)
Sudan – The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in Sudan have agreed to US–mediated peace talks. The RSF and the Sudanese army will meet in Switzerland on August 14 to discuss a possible end to the conflict, which has raged for over a year and displaced nearly 10 million people. Hunter Williamson, communications coordinator with THIMAR–LSESD, says they are getting updates from local Sudanese partners about the collapse of law and order in Khartoum. Sudanese pastors are trying to encourage frightened believers and reach the lost for Christ, but it’s hard. THIMAR-LSESD’s Arab Baptist Theological Seminary (ABTS) has Sudanese students and alumni, and is working to encourage them.
“ABTS through its alumni networks, they’ve been providing everything from financial support to Sudanese church leaders to just emotional and spiritual support — whether that just be picking up the phone and talking with a Sudanese friend that’s affected by everything, praying with them, [or] reading the Word with them.”
We pray for Christ’s peace to come to Sudan. Ask God to lead the lost to repentance and for the Sudanese people to know Jesus Christ. We pray for local Christians to stand firm in their faith. We ask God to lead evil–doers to repentance + encouragement for Christians in Sudan. (Reported by Lyndsey Koh – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/peace-talks-on-the-horizon-for-sudan-conflict/ , 26th July 2024 – Mission News Network)
Lebanon – Mediators between Israel and Hezbollah say they hope a truce in Gaza could also open doors for a de– escalation of violence at the Israel–Lebanon border. But as we’ve seen over the last several months, diplomatic efforts can sour on a dime. Pierre Houssney with Horizons International in Lebanon says, “It’s not clear whether a truce would be positive or negative because it’s just possible that when Israel is done with what it’s doing in Gaza, it could turn more of its resources toward the Lebanon front.” Hezbollah terrorists, for their part, continue to engage in war crimes as they attack Israel.
Truly, Horizons International works with the Lebanese Church to spread Gospel hope and reach Muslims for Christ. These local churches are serving thousands of people displaced from the southern border. We pray with believers in Lebanon and throughout the region for peace. Ask God to lead many Lebanese people, including Hezbollah, to put their trust in Jesus Christ. (Reported by Lyndsey Koh – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/would-an-israel-gaza-truce-turn-the-heat-up-or-down-in-lebanon/, 25h July 2024 – Mission News Network)
Lebanon – Families in northern Israel are calling for an official war against Hezbollah. Fighting for the North, a group representing hundreds of Israeli families is planning nationwide demonstrations on Sunday. Meanwhile, in Lebanon, “All the threats are mounting; we’re not sure what’s going to happen,” Nuna with Triumphant Mercy Lebanon says. “We don’t know if we’ll wake up to a full-size war tomorrow, or [will it] be contained in the south? The fear and the stress are really high.”
Tit–for–tat fighting between Israel and Hezbollah escalated following the targeted killing of a Hezbollah commander. Nine months of bombings in southern Lebanon have taken a toll. Yet, TM Lebanon offers the hope of Jesus to families who fled southern Lebanon and found shelter in Beirut. Find ways to help here, and pray for perseverance. “All the people on the ground are under heavy stress. Pastors and many people are considering quitting [because] this is too hard,” Nuna says.
We pray for the team to rely on the strength of God trusting Him to lead them through the unknown; otherwise they can’t rely on their strength or their old strategies. We pray against fear and for the ministry team’s strength, reliance on God and flexibility. We pray for pastors and people on the ground considering quitting due to the challenges + for the ministry to continue being a beacon of hope for people during the crisis. (Reported by Katey Hearth – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/lebanons-constant-turmoil-takes-a-toll-on-gospel-workers/, 12th July 2024 – Mission News Network)
Lebanon – We pray for peace and de–escalation of tensions as escalating tensions threaten to tip the Gaza war into a regional conflict. Canada called its citizens out of Lebanon yesterday due to the deteriorating security situation, as Israel and Hezbollah trade daily assaults. Speaking to MNN from Beirut, Heart for Lebanon’s Camille Melki says, “In the last few days, it felt like this tension was escalating further, with both [sides] threatening to escalate it to the next level.” Military analysts warn that a war today would be worse than the conflict between Israel and Lebanon in 2006. “Any conflict between Hezbollah and Israel that goes to the next level could escalate [to] a regional war. The political paramilitary groups in Iraq and Yemen could join the conflict,” Melki says.
We pray for wisdom and protection for Heart for Lebanon’s workers as they continue to care for displaced Lebanese families and introduce fearful hearts to the hope and love of Christ and share the Gospel alongside every humanitarian aid they can provide. (Reported by Katey Hearth – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/nations-urge-citizens-to-leave-lebanon-as-israel-hezbollah-tensions-escalate/, 27th June 2024 – Mission News Network)
Jordan – We pray for peace in Israel/Palestine to reduce effects on Jordan as convoy of 70 trucks containing humanitarian aid entered northern Gaza earlier this week from Jordan. The Hashemite Kingdom has sent more than 2,100 aid trucks to date, and Jordan’s King Abdullah advocates frequently on the global stage for Gaza’s Palestinian people. In Jordan, “People carry this ongoing heaviness of the war because many still have ties back into Palestine; 70 percent of them, as a matter of fact,” says Samuel* with Redemptive Stories.
Indeed, the war is also affecting Gospel work. “There’s been even more closure to the Gospel because of what’s taking place in Gaza,” Samuel notes and “evangelical Christianity is often associated with the United States, and political decisions made by the United States affect people’s realities.” We pray for encouragement, boldness and wisdom for Gospel workers as “encouragement is number one + number two would be continued boldness,” Samuel says; for wisdom and boldness in sharing and speaking truth into the situation. (Reported by Katey Hearth – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/nations-urge-citizens-to-leave-lebanon-as-israel-hezbollah-tensions-escalate/, 26th June 2024 – Mission News Network)
