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7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
1/22
Arab World
Prayer GatheringMarch 4, 2011YWAM North Africa / Middle East
7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
2/22
Arab World Prayer Gathering
March 4, 2011
Incredible, unprecedented, history making these are the words people are using to describe
what is happening in the Arab World in these days. One TV commentator has said It's like a
giant hand is moving in the region.
The massive fires of protest movements spreading across the Arab World began with a single
spark in a small rural town in the small North African country of Tunisia. In the few weeks
following the successful overthrow of its repressive and corrupt government by the Tunisian
people, fourteen more Arab countries across North Africa and the Middle East have seen
protesters take to the streets. Their hope is that if it can happen in Tunisia, it can happen
elsewhere.
Until last month, virtually all Arab countries were governed by a repressive regime. Often,
succession has been handed down from father to son, and some countries have had the same
leader for over 40 years. The gospel has been severely restricted and, in many countries,
Christians have been strongly persecuted.
But the last few months have seen a wave of momentous change begin to sweep across the
region. As the harsh regime in Tunisia fell, those longing for freedom and expression in
neighboring countries have been emboldened to take their own protests to the streets
demanding change. Regimes that inspired fear in their people and looked rock solid have
fallen in only a matter of weeks. And in each case it's been a popular uprising, usually led by
young people.
In recent years millions of God's people have poured countless hours of prayer in to the Arab
World. God led us into many prayer initiatives like the 30 Days of Prayer for the Muslim
World. And now, in response to those prayers, God is moving. It's like God has been storing
our prayers in the bank, but now he is bringing them out to 'spend'. It seems his goal is to
transform the whole region. But this doesn't mean the need to pray is over. In reality, it's just
the beginning. Our stored up prayers are the engine of the change God is bringing. Now it is
time to pray prayers that will bring direction to that movement.
Will these changes continue to come violently? Will they bring real freedom, dignity andjustice to the peoples of the Arab World? Will the gospel continue to be repressed or become
freely available for all people? These are the questions that hang in the balance, and this is
why we need to be in prayer.
7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
3/22
Suggestions for Using this Prayer Pack
In this pack you will find an overview of recent events in the Arab World and more detailed
information on the individual nations of the region. Each of these contains a brief snapshot
about the country, a recap of current events, and some Hopes and Challenges for the future.
The recap of current events, in most cases, is directly related to the protests and uprisings
which have swept across the region over the past few months.
Note: we have left off country statistics as these can be found on any number of websites. If
you want to track the events in the region as they continue to unfold, you can do so at any of
the major news sites, including bbc.com/middleeast, cnn.com/world, or aljazeera.net (click
the link to the English version of the page).
For those with limited time or smaller numbers of people, the Overview should be enough to
get you started. If you have more time, multiple groups, or specific countries you wish to
pray for, the individual pages will be very helpful.
Prayer points can be gathered by reading through the Hopes and Challenges for a particular
nation and waiting on the Lord. At a time like this it would be very easy to pray from our own
cultural perspectives. However, we want to seek the Lord and ask for wisdom in how to pray
during this season of uncertainty and change. The future is open, and we want to ask God to
show his heart and plans for it.
Thank you for joining us at this history-making time for the Arab World. May the Lord
multiply our prayers, and the effects they have on the region.
For further information regarding prayer, short-term trips, internships, and long-term
action, email us at [email protected] [email protected]
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
4/22
7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
5/22
Libya
Libya was a central part of culture and commerce throughout the Greek,
Punic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Today, it is made up of tribal and
clan-based people groups, all effectively under the rule of a tribal
chieftain structure headed up by Muammar Gaddafi, who took control of
the country in 1969. Under his regime ethnic and tribal minorities have
continuously suffered discrimination.
Current Events Recap
To date, the Libyan regime has taken the strongest stance against protests,
declaring their intent to stay in power and openly attacking protesters.
This is the worst situation in any of the nations that have experienced
protests. The government here has been entrenched for over 40 years, and does not seem to
want to leave.
Jan 13 - The firsts protests in Libya take place in several cities. Benghazi, Libyas second
largest city sees the worst of the unrest and protesting.
Feb 15 - These protests turn violent when the government chooses to fight back, opening fire
on protesters and declaring they will not be forced out of power.
Feb 20 - The protests reach the capital city, Tripoli. Gaddafis son goes on national television
to make claims the country will fall apart and break into civil war if his father leaves.
Many government members, particularly those in posts overseas, resign in protest of
Gaddafis actions agains protesters.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- The nation, and its leader, have been involved in witchcraft beliefs and practices. Gaddafi
wears an amulet on his neck that supposedly makes him invincible (this belief is backed up
by his surviving hundreds of assassination attempts). The entire country was put through a
blood covenant, with each citizen required to give blood to it.
- The country is divided into tribal factions, many of whom have historically fought one
another. These tribes continue to hate one another, and make claims over the others that keep
the people in disunity.
- Seif al-Islam, the oldest son of Gaddafi whose name means sword of Islam, is a key
leader in the country. He seems to support his father at this time, and his recent speech on
national television stirred up further anger among protesters.
For further information regarding prayer, short-term trips, internships, and long-term
action, email us at [email protected]
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
6/22
Egypt
A nation with a long and proud history, symbolized by the iconic
pyramids and historical pharaohs, Egypt is recognized by much of the
world as the center of the Middle East. Though no longer a regional
leader economically, Egypt extends its influence over the cultural,
religious, and political views of many of its neighbors.
Current Events Recap
Egypt held the worlds attention with more than two weeks of protests in
Tahrir (Liberation) Square. The end result was what the people wanted, as
Hosni Mubarak stepped down, with less of a fight than many expected,
after 30 years in power. Jubilation broke out throughout the country, and
more Arab nations were again emboldened to take to their own streets.
Jan 16 - Thousands of Egyptians flood the streets of Cairo, shouting slogans against Hosni
Mubarak and his regime.
Jan 17 - at least two men set themselves on fire, replicating the event that started it all in
Tunisia.
Jan 20 - Facebook groups begin to call for major rallies in Tahrir Square beginning of Jan 25.
Jan 28 - The government puts a curfew in place, though most protesters simply ignore it.
Jan 29 - Mubarak announces a new Vice President, for the first time during his reign, in an
attempt to appease the people.
Feb 2 - one person is confirmed dead, and more than 400 injured, when peaceful anti-
government protesters are attacked by Mubarak supporters.
Feb 11 - Mubarak steps down after almost 30 years in power. The people now come to Tahrir
Square each day to celebrate. The military takes control of the country in the interim,
and order is slowly being restored as the country goes back to normal.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- During the days of celebration after Hosni Mubarak stepped down from power, both Coptic
and Evangelical Christians took to the square to conduct mass and worship openly. This
freedom has not been seen here for a long time. Unfortunately, the Christian community is
still divided between those who are happy with revolution and those who are afraid of it.
- There are Islamic groups as excited about the possibilities for the future of Egypt as we are.
The Muslim Brotherhood and their political party are presenting themselves as the leaders of
revolution, as other fundamentalist groups also hope to get a piece of the cake.
- Many of the problems that created the protests were due to the grinding poverty throughout
the country. The doors are now open to true reform to take place at the highest levels of
government, meaning a greater future for many Egyptians.
To find out more about the work in Egypt, or how to get involved, contact us [email protected].
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
7/22
Bahrain
Though this tiny island nation may not have the international recognition
her larger neighbors enjoy, Bahrain is making strides to become
influential in less traditional markets for the region. In the past it was
known for the pearls hidden in the water, today it is more well known for
hosting events such as the Formula One Grand Prix.
Current Events Recap
Feb 4 - Protesters gather in front of the Egyptian embassy in Manama.
Feb 14 - The protest turns violent as police use tear gas and rubber bullets
on protesters.
Feb 15 - Clashes intensify, and police are reported to have killed
protesters.
Feb 17-18 - Police attack protesters at 3am, while they sleep.
Feb 19-20 - Protesters are allowed to return to Pearl Roundabout and are given food and
electricity.
Feb 23 - The ruling party releases more than 50 political prisoners to continue to appease
protesters.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- The ruling family seems to have listened, at least in part, to the demands of the protesters. A
dialogue between the two groups has begun and the right to protest is being respected. Could
this lead to a relatively peaceful transition?
- Those who serve the Lord in hard places face discouragement, illness and difficult times. It
is not always easy to put their trust in him daily and draw upon his strength. This is not
helped by the fact that Bahrain is also an expensive country to live in.
- The internet is a great way for Bahrainis to find information on the gospel and Christ. There
are forums where they can go and chat with believers from around the world, and hear the
gospel being explained. They can easily download the Bible in Arabic.
To find out more about the work in Bahrain, or how to get involved, contact us at
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
8/22
Tunisia
Although Tunisia is the smallest of the North African countries, it has
been considered a key location throughout history. Located in the center
of the Mediterranean Sea and forming a naturally strategic position close
to Europe, empires throughout the centuries have all sought to exercise
control of the supply lines and the movement of peoples in the region.
Current Events Recap
The events sweeping across the region began in this small North African
nation. After successfully forcing the President to step down and flee the
country, the Tunisian people unknowingly lit a fire in the hearts of their
Arab neighbors to follow their example. The country is still in the process
of putting an interim government in place, and all members of the
previous government are banned.
Dec 18 - Protest begin in Tunisia, the first in the region, after a vegetable seller sets himself
on fire to protest the government. Protests and violence break out a r o u n d t h e
country.
Jan 14 - President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali steps down and flees to Saudi Arabia. This
emboldens other Arab nations to take to the streets to rally against their repressive
leaders.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- God`s word says: They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, the time is coming when
anyone who kills you will think they are offering a service to God. John 16:2
- The word, Tunisia, comes from the Berber word for key, and many intercessors have
received this word from the Spirit while praying for Tunisia, without knowing the meaning of
the word.
- The Muslim Brotherhood is back after being banished as political movement for more than
23 years and they want to turn the Jasmine revolution to a religious movement. There have
been protests in the capital calling for separation between the state and religion.
- Some Christians are scared, some are braver. May God give His church lots of peace about
the situation. Pray for Tunisian Christians as they face persecution and increased death
threats. Ask God to strengthen them for the persecution promised to believers.
For further information regarding prayer, short-term trips, internships, and long-term
action, email us at [email protected]
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
9/22
Yemen
Currently the poorest country in the Middle East due to limited oil
reserves and constant unrest among tribal leaders, Yemen is
acknowledged by most historians as the birthplace of the Arab people,
and is home to one of the worlds oldest civilizations. According to
popular legend, Sana'a was founded by Shem, son of Noah. Yemen is the
only part of the Arabian Peninsula that has significant agriculture because
of its fertile valleys and plains. Yeminis are, at the same time, desperate
to hold onto their traditions and history while reaching out to catch up
with the rest of the world.
Current Events Recap
Ongoing riots continue to disrupt the country. The government has
requested the army let the protesters, both for and against the regime,
demonstrate. The army has also been ordered to keep the two sides apart. At least 15 people
have been reported killed in the clashes.
Jan 18-20 - Sporadic protest across the country calling on the President to step down.
Jan 27 - Protests step up in intensity.
Feb 2- President Saleh announces he will not run for the position again, nor hand power over
to his son.
Feb 11-20 - The protests become violent as police and government supporters clash with
anti-government protesters.
Feb 23 - Seven Members of Parliament resign to protest the governments handling of the
protests, specifically the violence being committed against protesters.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- Yemenis are known for their extreme hospitality, and most of them are disgusted with the
negative international picture that is portrayed by most media channels. They love their
country, and would love to see its reputation restored.
- One of the presidents slogans sums up much of the Yemeni worldview. To preserve and
protect! People can hold onto the past so tightly that they cannot move into the future. The
country is ruled by a tribal system which affects the ability of the government to ruleeffectively.
- The unity forged in 1990 has proved to be elusive in some areas. There are groups in the
north and in the south that wants to secede from the country. This has lead to violent
uprisings. The recent events in Egypt have strengthened the resolve of the secessionists and
opposition parties and there are daily demonstrations in most of the main cities.
To find out more about the work in Yemen, or how to get involved, contact us [email protected].
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
10/22
Algeria
Algeria has had a history of wars, both from external attackers and, much
more recently, civil war. Today, though the country is rich from oil
revenues, the failed socialist government with its centralized, bureaucratic
structure has left many Algerians poor, unemployed, and hungry for
change.
Current Events Recap
Protesters have been demanding government reform, which has resulted
in a 20 year state of emergency being lifted. The protests began in January
over escalating food prices, high rates of unemployment and housing
issues.
Dec 29 - Police clash with protesters. Over the next couple of weeks the rallies reach almost
every city in Algeria, often turning violent.
Jan 22 - At least 42 are injured when police block a march on the countrys parliament
building.
Feb 3 - The President announces he will lift the state of emergency.
Feb 23 - The cabinet rules to repeal the emergency law.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- There is an obvious hunger in the Algerian people for freedoms many of us consider basic.
At the moment, the protests are political in nature, but such massive change can produce a
spiritual hunger for truth and God.
- Like many of the uprisings around the Arab world, the youth of Algeria play a key role in
these ones. They have organized and performed many of the demonstrations, and are looking
to bring change now in order to ensure them a better future.
- The government has shown signs of being willing to accommodate the peoples desires.
However, it is unclear yet if this is simply being done to placate the protests, or from a
sincere desire to make things better for their people.
For further information regarding prayer, short-term trips, internships, and long-term
action, email us at [email protected]
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
11/22
Jordan
Tucked in the shadows of Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Israel, Jordan is a
small nation playing a key role in the region. Long a crossroads for
people moving through the area, today it is home to large numbers of both
Palestinian and Iraqi refugees. Politically, it stands at the meeting point of
the Middle East and the Western world, acting as mediator on many of the
key issues affecting the region.
Current Events Recap
Jan 14 - Protests are held round the country, including 5,000 people
gathering in the capital city Amman. The government cancels
plans to raise gas prices.
Jan 21 - More rallies around the country. These continue weekly for a
number of weeks.
Feb 1 - King Abdullah II dismisses the current government, naming a replacement Prime
Minister, one-time General Marouf al-Bahkit. He is tasked with forming a new
cabinet. This does not appease opposition groups, and the rallies against the
government continue.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a small island of peace and stability in the midst of an
ever changing political scene in the Middle East. King Abdullah II has followed in his
fathers footsteps and has been a bridge builder between East and West. (Jordan is a
constitutional monarchy where the King still holds a a position of authority as the real leader
of the nation.)
- Due to its political and economic stability, Jordan has been a refuge for many Palestinian
and Iraqi refugees over the years, and has become an economic hub for many international
companies and organizations. In recent years, we have seen God use this welcoming nation
and its strong leadership to open doors for many locals to hear the Truth and respond to Gods
invitation to reconciliation. There is a spiritual hunger and openness to the Truth right now
that is unprecedented.
- Though Jordan is 95% Sunni Muslims, the Church here remains a protected minority andenjoys relative freedom of worship. King Abdullah is a champion of Inter-faith dialogue and
is the initiator of the Amman Message published in 2005, one of the main voices of the
Reform Movement within Islam today.
To find out more about the work in Jordan, or how to get involved, contact us at
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
12/22
Syria
Home to the oldest capital city in the world, Syria hangs on tightly to the
true essence of Arab culture. Multiple generations have walked along her
crowded, narrow streets, doing business and discussing the world over a
glass of tea. Though hidden from the outside world today, it is still viewed
as a culturally rich land faithfully representing the Arab world's proud
history.
Current Events Recap
Feb 4 - A day of rage was planned by youth organizations, however,
nothing ever materialized as no one showed up. The government
made arrests and threats against those who planned to protest in
the days leading up to the event.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- Syria's government is a confusing balance of secular (even socialist) ideals and practice,
together with support for Hezbollah and a strong anti-western stance. Freedom of expression
is strongly limited and people live in fear of the secret police.
- Christians enjoy some level of freedom in Syria. Typically churches can operate openly,
however most churches are infiltrated by government informers. Recent crackdowns on
evangelical churches have struck fear in to some hearts, but the same events have
emboldened others. Even in this climate of fear, the gospel is going forward and small groups
of new believers are growing.
- Growing corruption in Syria has meant that a small group of people are getting rich, while
life for the average Syrian remains a struggle. In ages past Syria was the great regional
power, but now Syria's economy has stagnated.
To find out more about the work in Syria, or how to get involved, contact us at
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
13/22
Morocco
Morocco has been open to the West going back at least as far as 1776 when
their government was the first to recognize the legitimacy of the newly born
United States. As a former French colony, French is an official language, as is
Arabica, and France holds the largest portion of foreign trade with Morocco.
Morocco has been historically tolerant of non-Muslims, allowing Jews and
Christians their places of worship. While Morocco guarantees freedom of
religion, their interpretation of this freedom prohibits Moroccan Muslims from
changing their faith.
Currrent Events Recap
Thousands of Moroccans joined nationwide protests on 20 February to demand
that King Mohammed hand over some of his powers to a newly elected government, make
the justice system more independent, and make deep economic reforms. Morocco has been
facing severe economic problems. It has announced an increase in state subsidies to try to
counter commodity price rises. Morocco is dogged by strikes by both private and public.
Feb 20 - Thousands of protesters rally in Morocco.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- Martyrdom is a most amazing testimony for the Way, the Truth and the Life. Moroccans,
like all people want to live in peace and freedom, but believers here are at the point of
choosing to either deny their Lord or suffer for him. The expulsion of 150 Western business
people and NGO workers in 2010 for alleged proselytism, and widespread persecution ofMoroccan believers throughout 2010 has shaken the peaceful coexistence, and religious and
personal freedoms have been suppressed.
- Morocco, like Egypt and Algeria, limits freedom of expression, and has so far been able to
contain protests. Like Jordan, it is a constitutional monarchy, with strong support among
certain sections of the public.
- Earlier this year, the country's reputation was damaged after Wikileaks revealed allegations
of corruption involving the royal family and people close to King Mohammed. Economic
liberalization has attracted foreign investment, and officials point to better basic services inshanty towns and rural areas. Some non-government groups maintain little has changed, with
poverty still widespread and unemployment remaining high.
For further information for prayer, for short-term trips, internships, and long-term
action, email us at [email protected]
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
14/22
Iraq
Considered by some to be the cradle of civilization and home to many of
the ancient world's great empires, Iraq is a land of great human and
geographical diversity. Travel north to south and you will come across
multiple ethnic groups and religious beliefs, all of which have filled the
land for centuries and are now attempting to work together to rebuild this
great nation.
Current Events Recap
Though the world's media outlets continue to carry news of almost daily
violence in Iraq, the country is much more stable and less violent than the
black years of 2006 / 2007. The war that began in 2003 is coming to a
close, but the battle for the future of the country continues to be
influenced by forces from both within and without the country. Recent
protests against the lack of water and electricity in the northern parts of
the country, have left a handful of people dead.
Feb 12 - Protests begin in major cities throughout the North of Iraq, the Kurdish area.
Feb 16 - Protesters take over the provincial council building in Kut, Iraq.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- After the war of 2003, much of the world expected Iraq to spiral downwards in to civil war.
Though the last few years have not been easy, many Iraqis have shown incredible patience,
forgiveness and a willingness to put aside long held grievances in order to work together for
the good of the country. A smaller group continue to actively work to stir up violence. The
future of Iraq rests on the outcome of this struggle.
- Corruption, at all levels, continues to sap away much of the potential for growth and
development in the country. Some honest people are trying to bring reform, however,
maintaining hope for the future is not always easy.
- Iraq's Christian minority has suffered targeted attacks over the last years. Understandably
fear has gripped the hearts of many Christians and many are looking for any possible way toleave Iraq. But a smaller group has staked their future to the future of Iraq, and are reaching
out in compassion. The gospel is finding open hearts, and a significant number of Muslim
Iraqis are finding Christ.
To find out more about the work in Iraq, or how to get involved, contact us at
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
15/22
Saudi Arabia
Home to the holiest sites of the Islamic world, this traditionally bedouin
desert kingdom is perhaps now the most influential Muslim nation in the
world. One of the region's wealthiest nations, the Kingdom of Saudi
Arabia is a land of contrasts, home to desert dwelling tribes and oil
funded modern mega-cities. It continues to struggle to find its way into
the future while attempting to hold on to the traditions of the past.
Current Events Recap
Saudi Arabia has managed to stay free of protests to date, as the ruling
family has been giving money to its citizens in order to keep them content
with the way things are.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- The spiritual atmosphere in KSA has been softening more and more, especially the past few
years. A great example of this is that raids on the under-ground churches have dropped to
almost zero. The spirit of theMutawa (the religious police) has been bound, to a great deal,
by the prayers of the saints and the timing of the Lord for a great harvest of souls.
- Saudi Arabia is caught in a time warp. For example, women aren't allowed to drive or travel
without a male relative, and some girls will be forced in to marriage even before they are
teenagers. Yet Saudis are now wealthy, often travel overseas, and love watching Oprah and
Dr Phil on their satellite channels. More and more are asking the question, why can the rest of
the world live in freedom and we need to live like this. The strain in the society is intense and
change in some form is seen by most as inevitable.
- On a day to day basis, Saudi Arabia is run by expatriate workers. Many of these workers
suffer terrible injustice, abuse, and sometimes extreme cruelty from their Saudi owners. For
many years such events were covered over but recent high profile cases have shone a
spotlight on the injustice that exists at all levels, even within Saudi families. A growing group
of Saudis are disgusted and embarrassed by these events and the impact they have on Saudi
Arabia's international reputation.
To find out more about the work in Saudi Arabia, or how to get involved, contact us at
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
16/22
Palestine
Situated in the ancient lands of Bible times, though many do not officially
recognize it at as a country, Palestine is home to a people with a long
history in the region. Spread throughout neighboring countries and around
the world, many Palestinians live as second class citizens, even in their
homelands. They face an uncertain future, often with a pessimistic
attitude, borne out of what is possibly the most difficult situation in the
Middle East.
Current Events Recap
While in the midst of its continued conflict with Israel, Palestine has
remained relatively untouched by the mass protests taking place in
neighboring countries.
Feb 14 - Prime Minister of the Palestinian Authority, Salam Fayyad, and his cabinet resign.
President Mahmoud Abbas then tasks Fayyad with forming a new government.
Hopes and challenges for the future:
- Many Palestinian people still hold on to hope for a peaceful and just solution to the Israeli/
Palestinian conflict. Although the vast majority of Palestinians simply want to live at peace
with their neighbors and have a stable future for their children, there are groups of extremists
whose frustrations and anger at injustices have often boiled over into violence. This often sets
the peace movement back and perpetuates the cycle of violence. Any hope for peace will
depend upon bringing justice and hope to the Palestinian people. Many Paletsinians are
working hard toward this goal.
- Years of instability and war have taken a toll on local infrastructure. The Israeli military
occupation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip have meant hundreds of checkpoints control and
restrict the movement of people and goods throughout these areas. Education, hospitals, job
opportunities, social services, and access to the water supply are some of the items on the
agenda of the struggling government. Many NGOs and Aid Agencies are working together
with the Palestinian government to help fill some of these vital needs and see development in
both cities and villages.
- 98% of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip are Sunni Muslims. The tiny minority
of Christians, whose origins date back to the times of the early Church, have felt the pressures
of war and financial strain and so have been emigrating to the West to find a better future for
their children. The Muslim and Christian communities have generally enjoyed a fairly
peaceful co-existence over the centuries, in spite of media reports to the contrary. Evangelical
churches are small but strong in faith and stand as a faithful witness in this troubled land.
To find out more about the work in Palestine, or how to get involved, contact us [email protected].
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
17/22
Oman
Recent development of what was once known as the pirate coast is only
now lifting Oman into the modern world. This late blooming country is now
pushing hard to educate its people and improve the standard of living.
Current Events Recap
Oman has not experienced protests to date.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- Omans Muslim community often looks to Christians to see how they live
as families. The Christian families living in Oman seek opportunities to be
examples of Biblical husband-wife, father/mother-child relationships in parks
& shopping malls, and while showing or receiving hospitality in homes.
- Let us lift up all the Omanis who have heard the Story of the Son, but have not received it.
Many have heard, the seeds have been spread, but the seeds have not taken root.
- "You feel comfortable talking about your convictions, and this makes it a good subject for
our English conversation classes". This is the way one of our friends starts her English classes
for locals. This week, she again had the opportunity to talk about our Holy Book, answering
questions from students. The questions dealt with the misconceptions the locals have about
the Bible.
To find out more about the work in Oman, or how to get involved, contact us at
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
18/22
Qatar
Another of the Gulf's extremely wealthy nations, Qatar is quietly
transforming itself into a very modern kingdom. Though small, it is
attempting to stand prominently on the world stage through hosting
events such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Current Events Recap
Qatar has not experienced protests to date.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- Qataris live a comfortable, wealthy life. In the midst of so many Arab
nations around them being shaken in the natural, we hope to see a
subsequent spiritual shaking and awakening take place here.
- From a worker living in Qatar: We've lived in our home for 6 years and
this is the first time we've seen our cactus bloom. We've also witnessed glimpses of 'flowers'
blooming in the lives of our friends here, being slowly but surely transformed by the love and
grace of our Lord Jesus! Now, may the desert blossom more with the flowers of His love and
truth!
- There are isolated believers here, who feel lonely and scared. They do not have contact with
one another, or expatriate believers, and their families do not yet believe. Though alone, the
Lord is with them and can use them in the midst of their families.
To find out more about the work in Qatar, or how to get involved, contact us at
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
19/22
Kuwait
Brought to the center of the world's attention when it was invaded in
1991, Kuwait has rebuilt itself over the past twenty years. Like many of
its Gulf neighbors, this ultra modern nation no longer resembles it desert,
tribal past, and continues to move quickly towards the future.
Current Events Recap
Kuwait has not experienced protests to date.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- Undercurrents of discontent have been simmering under the surface in
Kuwait for many years. In January, scared by events unfolding on other
parts of the Arab world, the government gave all Kuwaitis a bonus of
$3500 ( on top of their normal oil income) plus free food for the next year.
However, many observers doubt that splashing large amounts of cash around will really
appease peoples' demands for inclusion in the governing of their country.
- Life for Kuwaitis is good. Oil wealth has taken them far from daily concerns of making
ends meet. However, though they have lots of money, can take expensive holidays and buy
all the latest 'toys', many young people are still not satisfied, sometimes turning to drugs,
alcohol and even street racing in a search for meaning and excitement.
- As is often the case in the Arab world, Christianity is understood as supporting
Hollywood style values of immorality and greed. But a growing group of Kuwaitis are
finding new life in Christ, often through the witness and example of foreign workers in their
country.
To find out more about the work in Kuwait, or how to get involved, contact us at
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
20/22
United Arab Emirates
A collection of seven semi-independent states, the United Arab Emirates
has been the world's shining model of what tomorrow holds. Built on
unimaginable wealth, this tiny nation demonstrates what can be done with
the right financing. Unfortunately, the global financial crisis has rocked
the arrogant confidence of the UAE to its core, and the country is
struggling to maintain confidence and investment.
Current Events Recap
The UAE has not experienced protests to date.
Hopes and Challenges
- There are many expatriate youth of various nationalities studying in
universities throughout the country who are truly following Christ. These students are
interacting daily with the younger generation of the country, tomorrows leaders.
- Different rates of development in different Emirates mean that some Emiratis are incredibly
wealthy while the life of some is much more modest. Some are concerned at the loss of local
traditional values in the great rush to modernisation. Many other Emiratis are fearful that the
cost of so many flamboyant projects like The Palm or Khalifa Tower might destabilise
the country financially.
- A secret believer here recently confided to a worker that she fellowships with "people in
another town who believe the way we do!" Praise God, as there are more out there than we
know, but He knows them all by name.
To find out more about the work in the UAE, or how to get involved, contact us at
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
21/22
Lebanon
Broken by war, this once thriving seaside nation seeks its future amidst
political and economical uncertainties. Built around a structure of shared
power between Islamic and Christian groups, Lebanon has often
struggled to bring this tolerance from policy to reality. After years of both
civil war and war with its neighbor, the country is lost and looking to
reclaim its former glory.
Current Events Recap
There have been protests held in front of the Egyptian embassy to show
solidarity with those protesting in Cairo at the time.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- There are signs of a spiritual awakening in the nations traditional
churches: Catholic, Orthodox & Evangelical. We long to see these
Christians living transformed lives and not settling for being Sunday Christians.
- The whole country is brutally divided politically, and this affects people groups as well as
churches. This presents the challenge of a new government being formed around the needs of
the people, rather than preconceived ideas about certain groups. The nation seeks a new
government with the fear of God and the ability to make wise decisions, have sound
judgment, and act in mercy for the good of the nation.
- There is a new hunger and openness among Muslims in a country where it is possible to
reach out to them, but very few are doing so.
To find out more about the work in Lebanon, or how to get involved, contact us at
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]
22/22
Sudan
After years of conflict, Sudanese are hopeful that this dark season of its
history is drawing to a close. A rich blend of Arab and African people, the
nation sits poised to return to better times as two distinct countries. The
future here is both optimistic and uncertain.
Current Events Recap
The recent changes in Sudan have come, surprisingly, much more
peacefully than those being experienced by other Arab nations. The
country held a referendum recently, where the South voted
overwhelmingly to separate from the North, and will officially become
the worlds newest nation in July of this year.
Hopes and Challenges for the Future
- After the Comprehensive Peace Agreement was signed to end the Civil War in 2005 Sudan
has seen a steady decrease of violence and political tension. There have still been attacks and
killings throughout the Darfur area, but overall things are looking much better for the peace
of Sudan. With the recent referendum having an overwhelming vote for independence,
Southern Sudan is set to become its own country on July 9, 2011.
- Throughout the referendum process so far President Omar al-Bashir has seemed cooperative
and surprisingly peaceful. Although political unrest is spreading throughout the Arab world
and protesters have sprung up against Bashir's leadership, they have not been overly violent
or destructive. Christians living in Sudan have been very aware of how key prayer has been,
and will continue to be, during this unstable time.
- Many Southerners living in the North have moved to South Sudan in hopes of starting a
new life. Along with them goes a majority of the Christian influence in this predominantly
Muslim region. Recently though, many churches in the North have worked together to
distribute one million Gospels of Luke to help ensure that though they may not be able to
stay, the Word of God will!
To find out more about the work in Sudan, or how to get involved, contact us at
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]