Venezuela

Answer to Prayer

Believers are not content to rest on their laurels. In 2002, a goal was set to plant 25,000 churches and fellowships by the year 2015; many feel this is achievable. Beyond basic evangelism, churches are also starting new ministries that impact social and communal ministry and mission vision. Research by Amanecer (DAWN) along with many evangelical groups is resulting in improved awareness of the needs of each region.

Challenge for Prayer

On a social level, Venezuela is struggling. Poverty is still widespread and may be growing, and relative living standards are dropping (60% of urbanites live in slums). Power is concentrated in the hands of an ever-shrinking cadre, and the nation is regarded as the second most corrupt in Latin America after Haiti. Venezuela is increasingly used as a transshipment point for trafficking primarily drugs but also people. The promised utopia of “21st Century socialism” is not taking root, at least not as quickly as hoped. Pray that amid significant economic change and political turmoil, the neediest in society would be cared for and communities would be strengthened.

     For an additional 10 Challenges for Prayer see Operation World book, CD-ROM, or DVD-ROM.