54 Days of Prayer for the Healing of AfricaSample

# COMOROS [IMAGE CONTENT] COLONISED BY FRANCE (1841–1975) SLAVERY \- The Arabs first used these islands as a trading outpost between Africa and other countries along the Indian Ocean and developed a thriving economy based on the sale of spices and slaves. HISTORY \- In 1841, the Islands were absorbed into the French overseas empires. The Comoros economy was dependent on the exporting of vanilla, ylang-ylang, cloves, cocoa, copra and other tropical crops. Most profits obtained from exports were diverted to France. Development was further limited by the colonial government's practice of concentrating public services on Madagascar, causing the migration of large numbers of Comorians to Madagascar, where their presence would be a long-term source of tension between Comoros and its giant island neighbour. Independence came in 1974 for three of the Comoros Islands. However, Mayotte, the remaining island, voted to remain part of the French republic (still to this day). Since independence, Comoros has endured political instability through realised and attempted coups. Today, the nation enjoys peace, though threats of political unrest still linger. 23.5% of people in Comoros live in extreme poverty. HOW DID CHRISTIANITY GET THERE? In the 1930s, the Capuchins established a Catholic Mission. CHURCH TODAY: 99.9% of the Comorian people are Muslim. The Comoros Nation became Islamic in the early 16th Century. Proselytization by any religion except Islam is illegal and converts to Christianity can be prosecuted. Islamic fundamentalism is on the rise, and many are also involved with occultic practices such as witchcraft and spirit possessions. ### PRAYER POINTS * Pray for deep healing, repentance, restitution and restoration regarding the wounds caused by slavery and colonialism. * Pray for the Gospel to infiltrate every island, regardless of restrictions and mounting persecution. * Pray that God will reveal Himself to the unreached people of the Comoros. * Pray for God’s protection over new believers, especially those from Muslim backgrounds. Pray for courage and strength for the small group of believers worshipping despite great risk. * Ask the Lord to bring more of His children to the islands to help disciple new believers. * Pray that the church of Comoros will fulfil Jesus’ prayer from John 17: to be one with one another and with Him, the Father and the Holy Spirit. * Ask God to bless Comoros and pray as the Holy Spirit leads you. ### PERSONAL REFLECTION WEEKLY WORLDWIDE MORAVIAN WATCHWORD The Lord is good to all, and His compassion is over all that He has made. Psalm 145:9 PRAYER Jesus, we remember those in our past who trusted in Your compassion and mercy. We long faithfully to rely on You, for we know that whatever we face, You walk with us in strong compassion. With thanks, we pray. Amen.