|
31st October 2010 |
|||
|
Pray for Gabon
Population 1.5 million with 6 people per sq km Religion 78% Christian Positives Coastal Central African state on the equator — 77% being dense tropical rain forest. One of Africa’s wealthier countries, rich in natural resources, Gabon imports food and exports wood, oil and minerals. Climate and geography hamper the development needed to harness the country’s full potential. Freedom of religion, but a presidential decree restricted Evangelicals from ministering in interior provinces. This has not been withdrawn, but nor has it been enforced. Traditional beliefs remain strong. The 1990s have been a time of God’s moving in Gabon. Libreville, the sophisticated, cosmopolitan capital had only 16 evangelical congregations in 1990. There are now 125, some very large.
|
.gif) |
||
|
|
Prayer needs Gabon is a spiritual battlefield. The conversion of the President and many government leaders to Islam, the pervasive influence of indigenous secret societies which all government leaders had to join, endemic alcoholism and widespread ignorance of the gospel are all indicators of this. While the vast majority claim to be Christian, Gabonese still fall back on their traditional religions in times of need. Pray that these influences may be broken down. Gabonese Christians need teaching and pastoring to mature, but the first step is to train national pastors and leaders for this. Opportunities for trainers are many. Pray that God might raise up those equipped for the task. There are two small Bible schools with 40 students, along with hundreds of TEE students.
|
||
