(Prayer information via OpenDoors)
Pressure is increasing on the tiny Christian community in this Muslim-majority country. Islamic leaders and government officials publicly reinforce that there is no room for Christians, and there is a strong drive to purge Christianity from Somalia. The militant Islamist group, al-Shabaab, targets Christians and local communities. Ten believers are reported to have been killed by members of al-Shabaab in 2013. There is a high level of fear and mistrust among believers, who have to hide their faith for fear of betrayal.
PRAY:
- Praise God that, despite the pressures, He has preserved a Christian witness in Somalia.
- For the very few, often isolated believers. Ask God to provide ways for them to mature in Christ .
- That Christians would have more freedom to worship Jesus.
QUICK FACTS about Somalia
Leader: President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud
Government: Federal republic
Main Religion: Islam
Government: Federal republic
Main Religion: Islam
Population: 10.3 million (A few hundred Christians)
Source of persecution: Islamic extremism
Source of persecution: Islamic extremism