MISSIONARY NEWS FEATURE #31

Operation World:

Argentina – This prayer news – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/02-19/ highlights how Evangelical Christians increased from under one million in 1980 to an estimated 4.5 million or more by 2020. Movements of renewal, evangelism, and prayer impacted the nation, while Argentine evangelists, teachers, and missionaries made a global influence. Looking ahead, strong, godly, and unified leadership will be essential for the future. (Cited source from 19th Feb 2026 – Operation World)

Europe – This prayer news – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/02-03/ highlights the growth of Islam through immigration and a higher birth rate is such that Islam has become the second religion of Europe. It is the largest religion in Albania, Bosnia and of other potential new nations – Kosovo as well as several republics in the Russian Federation. (Cited source from 3rd Feb 2026 – Operation World)

Africa – This prayer news – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/01-31/#asia highlights that in Asia alone, there are 1.3 billion Muslims, 1.2 billion Hindus and 470-920 million Buddhists (the higher figure if the Chinese, Japanese and other intermingled ethnic religions are included). (Cited source from 31st Jan 2026 – Operation World)

Africa – This prayer news – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/01-17/#africa highlights how discipleship is rightly being addressed as Africa’s greatest challenge. The growth of Christianity has been sensational, but the follow–up has traditionally been lacking. Non–Christian customs and worldviews permeate the Church. Syncretism is a major problem in many areas. (Cited source from 17th Jan 2026 – Operation World)

The World – This prayer news – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/01-02/ shows how God’s people joined together to pray in greater numbers, and with greater focus, than ever before! Grassroots movements on the local, national, and international levels pray for their communities, for countries and people groups, and for important global issues (like the persecuted Church, children at risk, victims of human trafficking, others. (Cited source from 2nd Jan 2026 – Operation World)

Northeast China – Heilongjiang, Jilin, Liaoning provinces:

This prayer news – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/04-13/ shows that around 80% of them are Christian. This region (near North Korea and Russia) was the homeland of the Manchu people (Manchuria), who conquered and ruled all of China from 1644-1911. Heilongjiang Province has good farm land. Jilin Province borders North Korea. Liaoning Province attracts economic migrants for industry, agriculture, and the busy port (Dalian). The Church here grew rapidly, with both locals and foreigners (Korean) active in ministry and church planting. (Cited source from 13th Apr 2024 – Operation World)

Asian/Middle East Mission Prayer News:

While world powers debate peace, God is at work behind closed doors in Iran:

This mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/while-world-powers-debate-peace-god-is-at-work-behind-closed-doors-in-iran/ reported how the Trump administration appears to be seeking a diplomatic off-ramp to de-escalate the Iran conflict, even as strikes, troop deployments, and regional tensions continue to intensify. The Pentagon has indicated that 2,000 Army troops are being positioned in the Middle East within range of Iran. We pray for the Iranian man being discipled through SAT–7 that he would continue to follow Jesus Christ faithfully. We also give thanks to the Lord for SAT–7’s satellite broadcast ministry, reaching many with the gospel. We ask God to open the eyes of the Persian people to biblical truth, to bring comfort to those in need, and for evil in Iran to be brought to justice, and for any peace established to be genuine and lasting.

(Reported source by Lyndsey Koh, 26th March 2026)

Gospel workers point to peace in Christ as Afghanistan–Pakistan hostilities resume:

This mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/gospel-workers-point-to-peace-in-christ-as-afghanistan-pakistan-hostilities-resume/ reported that Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed to a three-day ceasefire last week to mark the final day of Ramadan. However, the truce ended on the night of Monday, March 23, 2026, and hostilities have since resumed. The tensions between the two countries trace back decades. Pakistan has accused Afghanistan of sheltering the Tehreek e–Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a militant group responsible for numerous attacks within its borders – an allegation the Taliban – led government in Afghanistan denies. Nevertheless, Pakistan’s security concerns remain significant; in 2025, it recorded the highest number of terrorism-related deaths globally (1,139), according to the Institute for Economics & Peace.

We pray for de-escalation and lasting peace between Pakistan and Afghanistan, for wisdom and courage for ministry workers navigating these complex realities, and for healing and comfort for families affected by violence on both sides, and for many to encounter the hope, love, and peace of Christ even in the midst of suffering.

(Reported source by Katie O'Malley, 25th March 2026)

Energy strikes increase the toll on global economy and people’s lives in Iran war:

This mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/energy-strikes-increase-the-toll-on-global-economy-and-peoples-lives-in-iran-war/ highlighted recent midweek strikes between Israel and Iran have reportedly damaged key energy facilities across the Gulf, including sites in Qatar and Iran. As the economic fallout spreads globally, so too do the psychological and human tolls. Fadi Sharaiha of the MENA Leadership Center notes a growing numbness among people living under the constant threat of sirens, missiles, and drone attacks. We pray for endurance for Christians in the Gulf region that God would help them remain steadfast in focus and faith. We also ask that God would use His people around the world to proclaim the true hope of Christ in meaningful ways amid the Middle East conflict.

(Reported source by Katie O'Malley, 20th March 2026)

New generation of Cambodia shows hunger for the Gospel:

This mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/new-generation-of-cambodia-shows-hunger-for-the-gospel/ highlights that in January, over 14,000 people gathered in Siem Reap, Cambodia, for a Christian Bible school and festival organized by 470 churches from five provinces. John Pudaite of Bibles for the World said his team prepared 80,000 Gospels of John and 6,000 Bibles for new believers. We pray the Gospel seeds planted will take root, the partnering churches will remain strong, and the Thai Army’s violence and incursions into Cambodia will cease.

(Reported source by Payton Lechner, 11th March 2026)

Hezbollah thrusts Lebanon into US-Israel–Iran conflict:

This mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/hezbollah-thrusts-lebanon-into-us-israel-iran-conflict/ shows how Lebanon has decided to join the recent fight between Iran and the allied United States and Israel too, courtesy of Hezbollah. Indeed, the risk of civil war stems from the reality that Hezbollah functions as both a militant force and a political party within Lebanon. For years, it has enjoyed the backing of more than 30% of the country’s Shiite Muslim population. Many regard the group as a defender against Lebanon’s southern neighbour, Israel. However, Monday’s bombing marked Hezbollah’s first publicly claimed attack on Israel in over a year, and some believe it could ultimately lead to the group’s downfall within Lebanon. We pray for meaningful Gospel opportunities as people celebrate Purim, which commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people in what is now modern–day Iran, and ask that many in Iran would come to know the hope found in Jesus.

(Reported source by Katie O’Malley, 3rd March 2026)

Four years later, the war within the war on Ukraine:

This mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/four-years-later-the-war-within-the-war-on-ukraine/ recounted how four years ago today, Russia launched a full–scale invasion of Ukraine. On this solemn anniversary, Eric Mock of the Slavic Gospel Association highlights three key aspects to understand: the loss, trauma, and relentless struggle for freedom that Ukraine’s next generation is enduring. We lift up prayers for God’s peace to reign in the hearts of countless Ukrainian and Russian families whom believers continue to serve.

(Reported source by Katie O’Malley, 24th February 2026)

Myanmar – a closer look at the Church surrounded by civil war:

A mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/myanmar-a-closer-look-at-the-church-surrounded-by-civil-war/ highlights that since 2021, the Church in Myanmar has been caught in the turmoil of a civil war between armed resistance groups and the military junta. The conflict has claimed the lives of an estimated 90,000 people – children, women, and men, besides combatants. Myanmar ranks among the 15 most difficult places in the world to follow Jesus, where faith in Christ often brings violent, community– driven repercussions. We lift up our brothers and sisters in Christ in Myanmar in prayer, asking God to grant them hope, perseverance, and steadfast faith amid profound suffering.

(Reported source by Katie O’Malley, 19th February 2026)

Church walks with refugees in Egypt in their journey to strength:

This mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/church-walks-with-refugees-in-egypt-in-their-journey-to-strength/ highlights how believers from Kasr El–Dobara Evangelical Church (KDEC) in Egypt are walking alongside refugees as they move from fear to hope, from facing barriers to finding strength and stability. While that journey may sound straightforward, it often takes years of experiencing Christ’s love expressed through consistent spiritual support and practical care. The church places special emphasis on empowering women through a vocational training center, developed in partnership with another congregation in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula. In addition to the training center, they have also established a school to serve refugee children, creating pathways for both immediate support and long–term transformation. We pray for God’s blessing and strength for believers in Egypt engaged in loving and caring for displaced families; for God to provide for their every need – physical, emotional, and spiritual. Surround them with God’s comfort and protection as they walk this difficult journey, knowing that God is their refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble. We pray for God open doors for resources, healing, and opportunities for these families to rebuild their lives, and for the church as a vessel of His mercy, love, and grace; how each believer becomes a testimony to the greatness of His love and power; for continued grace from God and open doors for ministry to refugees in Egypt.

(Reported source by Katie O’Malley, 9th February 2026)

Under fear and pressure, believers in Myanmar still say “Come, Lord Jesus”

This mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/under-fear-and-pressure-believers-in-myanmar-still-say-come-lord-jesus/ tells us that February 1, 2026 marked five years since Myanmar’s military junta overthrew the government, sparking a civil war. Although the gospel is spreading in Myanmar, it is largely a place of militia warfare, military checkpoints, and fear. We pray for God to bring a time of refreshing upon the persecuted church in Myanmar, “so they could experience what it means to be a body without having to be refugees again,” says Isaac. We pray for a political change to happen in Myanmar, so that believers can live out their faith in freedom than fear. We pray for a divine reordering of power structures, so as justice may flow like a river and righteousness like an ever–flowing stream & for God to break every system of fear, oppression, and persecution that has sought to silence the voices of believers. We decree that believers to have freedom to worship, freedom to speak truth, freedom to live out their faith without hindrance.

(Reported source by Katie O’Malley, 2nd February 2026)

Afghan believer attacked while sharing God’s Word in Afghanistan:

This mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/afghan-believer-attacked-while-sharing-gods-word-in-afghanistan/ highlighted that Afghans who come to Christ are not discouraged by the threatening shadow of persecution. Instead, they follow the Great Commission, even when it costs their security and health. Indeed, “Gospel has no boundaries, and Gospel is limitless to any country,” says Nehemiah from FMI. And testimonies coming from Afghanistan show that God is on the move. Yet, the Gospel work often comes with a price. We pray for the healing of Lala Zeeshan after the attack. We also pray for the endurance of Afghan believers as they share God’s love with their communities. We too prophesy supernatural safety over every Afghan believer that God will hide them in the shadow of His wings; for God to turn hostile ground into holy ground, and fear–filled moments into testimonies of His power. We pray for God to be their strength and be their peace in times of their weaknesses and feeling inside them; and for God to burn His Word even brighter within them, when their voice is threatened. We declare that their suffering will not silence the Gospel and for God to cover them with the blood of Christ, a shield no weapon can penetrate, having seeds planted through their faith grow secretly, powerfully, irreversibly, for what the enemy meant for harm, God will use to awaken their hearts & Him to breathe courage into them now.

(Reported source by Joanne Khmel, 27th January 2026)

U.S. pins terror label on Muslim Brotherhood:

This mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/u-s-pins-terror-label-on-muslim-brotherhood/ features how the United States labels Muslim Brotherhood cells in Egypt, Lebanon, and Jordan as “terrorist” groups, leading to sanctions and other financial restrictions in the Middle East. The U.S. decision follows similar designations by Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. The Kingdom of Jordan banned the Muslim Brotherhood in mid–2025. The Trump administration says the Muslim Brotherhood’s support for Hamas played a leading role in the designation. “Their (Muslim Brotherhood’s) push has historically been, ‘If we were just good Muslims and follow the way correctly, then God would bless us by giving back the land of Palestine,’” Samuel with Redemptive Stories says, explaining the connection. We “pray for our brothers and sisters who are there, standing strong in the midst of ongoing strife, to communicate hope with their neighbors,” Samuel says. We pray for peace in the Middle East + that political decisions won’t distract people from the Gospel. We pray for discernment to be upon officials in the State and Treasury Departments as they implement and enforce these sanctions. We intercede for U.S. counterterrorism personnel as they monitor and report on evolving threats. We pray for the protection of regional allies and the success of efforts to thwart violence and destabilisation.

(Reported source by Katey Hearth, 23rd January 2026)

Iran’s crackdown forces believers into hiding, but Scripture spreads:

This mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/irans-crackdown-forces-believers-into-hiding-but-scripture-spreads/ highlighted how a harsh crackdown on protestors in Iran appears to have crushed unrest for now. The death toll continues to rise as reports leak out of the country; totals range from 5,000 to more than 16,000.Tehran protests began in late December over inflation. Then, the language quickly morphed into anti-regime rhetoric. The movement gained support early on from U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened intervention before the country went dark. We praise the Lord that He is still working amid Iran’s current chaos. We ask God to protect His followers in Iran and provide for their daily needs. We pray for good plans to prevail, and evil plans to collapse. We also praise God that He is strengthening believers who are forced to go into hiding, yet the rapid spread of Scripture are spreading like wildfire (like the Jesus Film/Bible App), and the growth of the underground church, anticipating a spiritual harvest as darkness reveals Christ’s light, even as believers seek courage and protection. We too thank God for the millions turning from Islam, drawn to the true Light, and for His promise to restore Iran.

(Reported source by Katey Hearth, 20th January 2026)

As regulations grow, caution shapes ministry in China

This mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/as-regulations-grow-caution-shapes-ministry-in-china/ shows how Kurt Rovenstine with Bibles for China says they’re working carefully and patiently as new laws add limits. Indeed, the new regulations also pressure believers to align more closely with the Communist Party. Rovenstine says practical challenges are growing too: “Getting funding into China is a challenge. Organizing the distributions are a challenge because of the permissions that are required.” We pray that God opens new, unexpected opportunities to deliver Bibles in China + for wisdom, protection, and safe distribution for everyone involved. We also pray for the Chinese believers to acknowledge God’s sovereignty amidst restrictions, giving thanks for His enduring presence, for their faith and the hidden growth of His Kingdom. We too pray for the church to ask God for divine wisdom, courage for leaders, protection for the vulnerable, and a powerful spiritual awakening that transcends worldly control, prophesying His ultimate triumph over all earthly decrees

(Reported source by Joanne Khmel, 19th January 2026)

Hope amid hunger – Sudanese believers serve displaced families as war deepens:

This mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/hope-amid-hunger-sudanese-believers-serve-displaced-families-as-war-deepens/ shows how Sudan’s government returns to the capital for the first time in three years as fighting intensifies near the southern border. The latest clashes between military and rebel forces have uprooted tens of thousands of people. We pray for God to strengthen the hands of Sudanese believers who serve displaced families with trembling courage and fierce love, as their kitchens become altars, their loaves become testimonies and their small acts ignite great hope. We prophesy resilience over weary bodies and courage over tired souls. We pray for these Gospel seeds to take root and be planted in the hearts of the children, for them to eat and laugh again; for mothers to find strength for another day and for fathers to see dignity restored in their lives. We pray for God’s peace to take root in the hearts of the Sudanese people even as war deepens, for Him to turn refugee camps into fields of compassion, turning their tears into seeds that will one day bear joy.

(Reported source by Katey Hearth, 13th January 2026 – Mission News Network)

Israeli airstrikes ramp up pressure as Lebanon cabinet discusses disarming non–state groups:

This mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/israeli-airstrikes-ramp-up-pressure-as-lebanon-cabinet-discusses-hezbollah-disarmament/ highlighted how the government of Lebanon missed its December 31, 2025 deadline to disarm Hezbollah, and it was part of a US–forwarded ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel, where. Israel has responded by conducting airstrikes every day this week on Hezbollah targets in southern and eastern Lebanon. We pray for wise leaders to take bold and proper steps in Lebanon & for opportunities for the churches to share the hope of Christ with their communities during these difficult days. We pray over the leaders and cabinets – those weighing decisions about power and disarmament and for God to expose motives that feed chaos, and for Him to strengthen voices that pursue life, order, and peace. We also declare prophetically that this region is not abandoned – a comfort where loss is fresh and a hope where the future feels fragile at times too.

(Reported source by Katie O'Malley, 8th January 2026)

International World Mission Prayer News:

Worldviews coincide – What happens when Lent and Ramadan overlap?

This mission article – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/worldviews-coincide-what-happens-when-lent-and-ramadan-overlap/ highlights that while Christians who observe Lent do so “by fasting or giving up something, repenting of sin, practicing prayer and generosity, and reflecting on Christ’s sacrifice and suffering” whereas “Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, [abstaining] from food and drink, as well as other physical comforts. They also increase prayer. They give alms, they seek forgiveness, they hope to grow in submission and devotion to Allah,” Samuel says. We ask that Jesus would make Himself known to those who are searching would encounter faithful believers, and that the words of Scripture would come alive in their hearts. We also lift up local Christians living among Muslim communities in places such as Syria, Iraq, Jordan, and across North Africa; for God to grant them courage without pride, discernment without fear, and deep compassion that never wavers in truth.

(Reported source by Katey Hearth, 18th February 2026)