‘When they got hold of us, one of them said the church shouldnʼt be in politics.’ - Apostle Nicolas Gurekoyame Gbangou reporting the words of armed men who stopped and robbed a convoy of 300 Christians.
On 4 June last year, unknown gunmen stopped the convoy of Christians from the ELIM denomination. They threatened the group, seized their valuables, and set their vehicles alight. This is just one example of continued efforts to frustrate the country’s fragile peace process.
Despite the country having taken some positive steps towards peace in recent years, armed groups continue to act with impunity in much of the Central African Republic (CAR).
Find out more at csw.org.uk/car
Sunday 26 June
While the CAR has taken several positive steps towards peace in recent years, there remains an urgent need to secure justice for victims of human rights violations by holding perpetrators to account. Call on God for his justice to prevail in the country today.
Monday 27 June
CSW has received concerning reports of the increasing use of landmines in the CAR, including by Russian paramilitaries. Pray today for the safety of all citizens, and particularly for the humanitarian organisations whose work is often delayed and endangered by the prevalence of explosive devices.
Tuesday 28 June
The majority of human rights violations, including violations of the right to freedom of religion or belief, take place in areas under the control of armed groups who act with impunity. Ask God to bring freedom and peace to these regions, and to protect vulnerable religious and belief communities.
Wednesday 29 June
‘“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”’ Claim this powerful verse from Jeremiah 29:11 for the nation of the CAR today.
Thursday 30 June
Today is General Prayer Day in the CAR, a national holiday for all citizens to pray for a peaceful future. Please join the people of the CAR in praying for peace today. Ask God to raise up, protect and guide peacemakers in the country.
Friday 1 July
The UN Refugee Agency estimates that 1.5 million Central Africans have been displaced from their homes since the outbreak of violence in 2013. Please pray that they would find comfort and shelter, and that they would eventually be able to return to their homes in safety and peace.
Saturday 2 July
Father God, we lift the nation of the CAR to you today and ask that your kingdom would come and your will would be done within its borders. Please protect the vulnerable, feed the hungry, and restore peace and justice across the country. Amen.