AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]

7/31/2019 AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]

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Arab World

Prayer GatheringMarch 4, 2011YWAM North Africa / Middle East


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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.


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]


4/22


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.


action, email us at [email protected]
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]


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.


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.


- 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]


7/22

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.


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.


- 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

[email protected].


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.


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.


- 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.


mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


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.


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.


- 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].


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.


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.


- 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.




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.


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.


- 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

[email protected].


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.


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.


- 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

[email protected].


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.


- 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



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.


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.


- 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

[email protected].


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.


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.


- 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

[email protected].


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.


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].


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.


Oman has not experienced protests to date.


- 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

[email protected].


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.


Qatar has not experienced protests to date.


- 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

[email protected].


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.


Kuwait has not experienced protests to date.


- 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

[email protected].


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.


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

[email protected].


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.


There have been protests held in front of the Egyptian embassy to show

solidarity with those protesting in Cairo at the time.


- 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

[email protected].


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.


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.


- 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

[email protected].

Documents

AWPG Prayer Packet-1[1]