‘In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.’ (Romans 8:26)
When faced with a situation that seems overwhelming, we sometimes feel that we don’t know what to pray. Nevertheless, the Bible reassures us that we are not alone, even in our sense of helplessness against in the face of so much misery and grief. The Holy Spirit is our helper, interceding for us before the throne of God.
Moreover, God is still at work, even in the darkest of times. Let this knowledge encourage you as you pray for Sudan this week. Find out more at csw.org.uk/sudan
Sunday 12 November
Sudan is still in crisis after fighting erupted between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) in April. Both armed factions launched the a coup in 2021, coup and are now competing for control. According to the Kenyan president, the conflict already shows ‘signs and vestiges of genocide.’ Pray for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, and for the beginning of a civilian-led transition to democracy.
Monday 13 November
Civilians are bearing the brunt of the conflict between the RSF and SAF. Pray for an end to the targeting of medical staff, hospitals, human rights defenders, humanitarian workers, and places of worship – some of which have been seized for military use. Hundreds of members of African tribes have been massacred in Darfur. Pray for protection and deliverance for all civilians.
Tuesday 14 November
There have beenare reports of a significant spike in conflict-related sexual violence targeting women and girls, particularly in Khartoum and Darfur, who cannot access medical or psychological support. Ask God to heal the survivors, to deliver others from similar trauma, and bring perpetrators to justice.
Wednesday 15 November
On 14 May, suspected RSF fighters attacked the Al-Masalma Coptic Church in Omdurman. They looted and vandalised the premises, called the priests and workers ‘Egyptians’, ‘sons of dogs’ and ‘infidels’, and told them to convert. Four men were shot, while another was stabbed; thankfully all five survived. Pray for an end to attacks on places of worship and the safety of clergy and laity.
Thursday 16 November
Mr Radhouane Nouicer is the UN’s designated Expert on the situation of human rights in Sudan. Pray that he would work proactively and effectively to monitor, document and report on human rights violations since the coup, and to formulate a strategy to end the conflict.
Friday 17 November
Give thanks for CSW’s Sudan Consultant, Mohaned. After being forced to flee Sudan, where he was the lead lawyer in several high-profile cases involving freedom of religion or belief, Mohaned continues to be a powerful advocate for the Sudanese people in key international arenas.
Saturday 18 November
We bring the situation in Sudan before the Lord of heaven and earth, who makes wars cease to the ends of the earth, who breaks the bow, shatters the spear and burns the shields (Psalm 46:9). We pray specifically for protection for civilians, for a just and lasting peace, for accountability for perpetrators of atrocities, and for the miracle of a democratic transition. Amen.