Congo-DRC

Answer to Prayer

Praise for the many prepared to pay the price for this harvest. Thousands of Christians and hundreds of Catholic and Protestant missionaries were martyred in the Simba Rebellion of 1964. Many others died in the conflicts from 1991 until today, some specifically as martyrs for their faith and refusal to compromise. Their example gives strength to others, and their sacrifice is the foundation for future harvests.

Challenge for Prayer

The Democratic Republic of Congo is a failed state by any measure of the term. The lands under this name have no centralized government, no connectedness between the vast and far-flung regions, almost no functioning infrastructure and no single language or culture to unite its many diverse peoples. More than five million people have lost their lives through war, violence, starvation and the virtual collapse of the health system. Pray for:

a) The will to re-establish a single nation. Many of the players in this tragic game do not want to see such a thing emerge. A shattered nation leaves resources more easily exploited, wars more easily conducted and influence more easily exerted, especially by the militia groups. The international community has not demonstrated the ability to rebuild Congo, and the nation itself has not proved its capability to stand on its own.

b) The formation of an effective national government that can establish centralized authority with honesty, justice and respectful concern for the interests of the governed – a miracle if it does occur. Sadly, the 2010 elections – which had promised the first properly elected government in decades – appear to have been deeply flawed. Bitter recriminations and violence are possible, even likely. Pray for a peaceful solution to this serious issue.

c) Economic recovery and wise use of finances to pay government officials, the military and police, teachers and medical workers. Job creation is one of the government’s top five priorities. Without this, corruption as a way of life cannot end.

d) The rebuilding of a ruined infrastructure, including health and education. Transport links will unite the country and weaken the militias; healthcare will save many lives and provide hope; education will be the foundation for future development.

     For an additional 6 Challenges for Prayer see Operation World book, CD-ROM, or DVD-ROM.