M
MrVersatile48
Guest
from http://www.globalharvest.org
EASTERN EUROPEAN PRAYER UPDATE
Submitted from our Friends in Eastern Europe
Forwarded by Global Harvest Ministries
Watchman Report – a few quotes
“Pray for Israel. The Church of Christ is called to intercede for the chosen people of God. The enemy is threatening the existence of the state of Israel through the terrorist movements that are taking place on the land of Lebanon and Gaza Strip, and being also supported by Syria and Iran.â€Â
“With movies and news highlighting terrorism and fighting, it is refreshing to be reminded that most Muslims are just sincere people who live under a religious deception and need to hear to the truth. God loves these dear people.â€Â
“Pray for the protection of our soldiers and the salvation of the lost both in Israel and Lebanon. Pray for God's plans and purposes and for His glory. Israel is traumatized, shell shocked and fighting for her survival. Let us also praise God that our destiny is in His hands.â€Â
“Summer camps – hurting kids from drug and alcohol abuse situations and neglect transformed from mind-sets of hopelessness, insecurities, and low sense of self-worth to hope.†This hope of course, comes through the Lord Jesus Christ. Pray for these kids.
“Pray for the Gypsies of Barbulesti that recently received a truck full of clothing, shoes, and candy. They told us that there is no gospel witness of any sort for miles around. Their little gypsy assembly is the only one at all nearby. We told them we would ask prayer from our brethren in the West…1 Samuel 12:23-24â€Â. Romany villages are strung all across the former USSR/CIS and the persecution against them is intense.
1 Samuel 12:23-24 (New International Version)
23 As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right. 24 But be sure to fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.
BALKAN NATIONS
Albania:
· Pray for the GCCM dental clinic that was opened this month that as people are ministered to in this way, many will come to know Jesus Christ as Savior.
· Continue to pray for the blood feuds. Some Christian families even are in hiding. May God’s forgiveness principles be understood and they choose life rather than death.
· Pray for Christian workers rise up in Albania for God’s plans and purposes to be fulfilled. Some needed positions are: pastor, administrator, musicians, mechanics, computer-skills, English teachers, volunteer coordinators, church planters and volunteer teams for prayer and distribution.
· Pray for the Albanian-Gheg people living throughout the Balkan nations. One team is putting together a strategy to reach them and see a movement of God within. “Pray the Lord would give us wisdom for strategy to reach the Albanians.â€Â
· Pray for team leaders D&D who have identified Albanian contacts and formed relationships with them. May these visits lead to Bible studies. Pray especially for J. who is convicted to the point that he has arranged for a place to meet a few days ago. Being Muslim, J fears consequences to him or his family if he becomes a Christian.
· Pray that ongoing work in the villages “clean apple†and “cherry†will touch hearts to receive the Gospel and that the contact-families will be open to study the Bible.
· Pray for distribution of notebooks in the “village of love†school and for the November team coming to pray, distribute Gospel tapes, and conduct business seminars. Pray for the participants in these seminars.
· Pray for the mayor of major Albanian city and a local university for ministry opportunities in both places.
· Pray for a team from Oakland, Tennessee that is forming to come and assist this work in October. Ask God to convict those He is calling and anoint them for service.
· Pray also for “a series of teams coming to do business seminars. The first team comes in November to teach Finance. They will be teaching 12-15 business people skills that are basic to American business knowledge but not common knowledge over here.â€Â
· Praise God for the YWAM-Macedonia & YWAM-Albania combined DTS outreach in Durres. Awesome things God did! Pray for the local church that hosted them and their special ministry to orphan children.
· Pray for the “hundreds of people†from this predominantly Muslim city that “had the opportunity to hear the Gospel, many of which received a Gospel tract that includes a map of the location of the church.†Pray God’s hand in the follow-up and discipling.
· Pray for the outreach in Korce & Elbasan – that hearts of Albanians ministered to there open for the Gospel. Pray God's strength, protection, and anointing on the team.
· Pray the Holy Spirit to continue water the seeds that have been planted and for those seeds to take root and grow and to produce fruit.
· Pray that new regulations that come into force on September 1st concerning Christian worship and mission will not be interpreted harshly.
· Continue to pray for the work of the Roberts among Albanians in the Philadelphia area of the U.S. May the work they built in Albania continue to abound under Albanian 5-fold leadership. Relationship-building in Philadelphia is already opening doors for a church-plant in the Albanian community. See their quote in the Watchmen section above.
Bulgaria:
· Pray for the Body of Christ in Bulgaria to receive a fresh prophetic revelation of the harvest God purposes for souls in Bulgaria. Let new ways of the Holy Spirit come into the Church and futile mentalities broken, old structures – barren methods of evangelizing cease and be gone.
· Pray for the Strategy 24 initiative to go through the eight regions of Bulgaria in 24 months. In each region, there will be 2 months of informed intercession then the sponsoring Apostolic Reformed Church (ARC) will send teams during month three to all churches in the region open to work and pray together – everything for the harvest. The vision from the Lord, to reach one million souls by 2010.
· Currently Strategy 24 is in the second region. “We are praying for the connection with key leaders and pastors who would agree to stand these months together in prayer for the revival in the churches and fire for evangelizing.â€Â
· Praise God for the good reports of pastors from the first region. One who oversees several churches in the region said that his church in Vratza has increased for the last three months. The intercession (we), combined with a prophetic act “done together†with ARC teams on the top of a hill in that region had a probable impact. On August 14 the media reported an unseen growth in the salaries of people in Vratza. Their salaries for the last six months now rank second after the capital of Sofia.
· Pray for the very complicated political situation in Bulgaria. While on the threshold of EU acceptance, “we are still reforming as a society from the communismâ€Â. High corruption, poorly-functioning judicial system and low social status are major problems. Pray regarding:
o The added political implications of dealing with nationalistic parties and Muslim fundamentalists – that they not impede the nation’s progress.
o Corruption in high places affecting this “last stage†of communicating with the EU to become members in January 2007. “So we are working a lot on the issues like corruption in the high places.†Pray God’s will as the ungodly EU will certainly not save and transform the nation.
o Warfare with the mafia structures to be uncovered and judged! Praise God for His power and mercy for the Balkans’ region!
· Pray for the funding urgently needed by Global Action for them to continue providing hope and food for those without either in Bulgaria.
Croatia:
· Pray for successful ongoing YWAM DTS outreaches by the team – that people be touched by the good news and that this outreach will be a catalyst for future work.
· Pray also for the team (girls from Romania, Serbia, Hungary and USA) - to be open for God to use them the way He desires and to grow in their calling. Pray also for their debriefing time and good ending of their DTS.
· Praise God, “this year's camp has been another great event in the life of the Lord’s church in Croatia. Participants from five Croatian churches spent the most memorable eight days on island Krk in the Adriatic Sea.†Pray that the wonderful seeds planted in every life-giving church camp across Croatia, be watered, mature and bear much fruit.
· Another praise God, was the wedding of a staff member of the Institute of Biblical Studies. Pray for the young Christians in the body of Christ be an example – salt and light where the tradition has been building to just live together.
· Continue to praise God for the expanding radio ministry God is building across Croatia. In July, Brother Vlado signed another contract for a fourth radio station, “Radio Vukovarâ€Â. This is addition to the existing nine radio stations already in place. Pray for this work to grow and to be a life-changing force for all of Croatia.
Macedonia:
· Pray that the ethnic Albanians from Macedonia and Kosova vacationing on the Adriatic Sea at Durres also received Holy Spirit beaconing through the YWAM DTS teams ministering there. “Many Albanians from Kosovo and Macedonia come to vacation in Durres. We met many people who spoke Macedonian and/or English, which helped us to communicate more effectively during our times of evangelism.â€Â
· Pray for peace to change the atmosphere of ethnic hatred between Serbs and Croats that has hindered the spread of evangelism in some parts of Macedonia. “However, the evangelical church is growing†reports the Every Home For Christ (EHC) team.
· Pray for wisdom for EHC Director Bore Blazevski and his wife, Zaharula, as they minister in Macedonia.
Serbia and Montenegro:
· Pray for the coordinated effort through Every Home for Christ (EHC) to reach every home in that nation with the gospel – both Serbia and Montenegro. Pray for wisdom as the EHC team is being mobilized to accomplish this outreach.
BALTIC NATIONS
Estonia: Please pray
· For the activiation of common prayer of churches in Tallinn and Estonia.
· For the church to have great impact on society in Estonia.
· For more active and effective evangelisation of children and youth in schools and university.
· For unity of churches and progressive society in taking a stand against homosexuality and prostitution.
· For blessing and repentance among Jewish people in Estonia.
Latvia:
· Praise God for the many great things that have happened over the summer as a result of the efforts of many churches and organizations.
· Pray for the short term teams that ministered and impacted many towns in Latvia earlier this month---Sabile, Kursi¹i, Taurupe, Birzgale, Pitrags...and many other surrounding areas. That the seeds planted would bloom and much fruit would come forth.
· The planned Gay Pride March in Riga was cancelled due to public outrage, political opposition, and prayer from many Christians from diverse backgrounds. This continues to be a hot topic causing conflict and anger in society. The EU also is considering sanctions against Latvia....Please pray.
· Pray the Church of Latvia would quickly agree on how to frame "the Family issue…how to ask all political parties and candidates for Parliament to support the correctly defined “natural family†against all attacks and propaganda. Pray that intercessors hear God’s strategy for warfare on this matter.
· Pray for upcoming DTSs that begin in September (in Riga and Valdemarpils)---for more students to apply and finances released to cover the costs for each student, as well as short term outreach.
· Pray for the upcoming camp (last week of August) for people who want to get free from addictions. Pray for deliverance and for the power of God to set people bound up in long term addictions to get free, come to know the Lord and walk in a new life.
· Please pray for the Brazilian team that will minister for two weeks in various towns in Latvia.
· Pray against the spirit plaguing Bashkortostan where Latvian missionaries have been harassed by the police. God prevailed in their Vacation Bible School ministry in the city and the kids turned out to be an amazing testimony for adults to experience. Pray that the police will not again stop their bus on the way out looking for bribes.
· Pray for upcoming Latvian Parliamentary elections October 7th --- many people are disillusioned overall with the political parties and politicians. Scandals and disappointments over many years have added up. Many people have no trust whatsoever and don’t even want to vote.
· Pray for city churches to commit to do a 24-hour shift in 10 days of non-stop worship and prayer before the elections, and for the Lord to unmask the wicked and raise up the righteous.
· Pray for Latvia’s first National Prayer Breakfast on Sept 8th----250 political, business, and religious leaders will gather for this event. Pray God’s anointing on the organizers and program – that it would be more than just an event, but that significant things would take place.
· Pray for the continued growth of the Prayer and Worship movement in Latvia and to complete work toward establishing Houses of Prayer and Worship next to Parliament and elsewhere.
· Pray for new church-planting strategies that would impact an unchurched population and reach the unreached parts of society. Pray specifically for an increase of cooperation, wisdom, love, workers, finances and ministry in eastern Latvia.
· Please pray for the new Crisis Pregnancy Counseling Center that opened in Riga...
Lithuania:
· Pray God’s Spirit to overwhelm Lithuania and many come to know him. Pray against the increasing influence of materialism, secularism, eastern religions and cynicism. Pray for soft hearts and changed lives. Pray Christians follow the Bible, obey God and yield to him in all aspects of life.
· Pray God unites the entire Christian church in Lithuania and that if works effectively together for him. Pray against discouragement.
· Pray for the city of Klaipeda. Some churches have lost their pastors, for a variety of reasons. Pray for protection over clergy and leadership teams of churches and Christian organizations, in Klaipeda and elsewhere.
· Pray for good follow-up for all those who attended Christian camps and other outreaches, including language schools, over the Lithuanian summer. Pray those who don't have churches connect with Christians and churches and come into the fullness of relationship with God!
· Pray for the new Christian women's magazine 'Tapati' and the 'Good News Centre' radio station. In a country poor with modern Christian resources compared with the west, these ministries are even more vital. Pray for provision and favor for them, for God's outpouring on their work and for many believers and unbelievers to read and listen to them.
CENTRAL NATIONS
Czech Republic:
· Pray that the Gospel seeds planted by a joint outreach team of Czech and American evangelicals bear much sustainable fruit. At least 150 people came to a concert in the park and 80 to an outreach pizza party. The Czech pastor reports that a number of the newcomers have already connected relationally in small groups! People were saved and baptized in the Spirit and water. Praise God!
· Praise God for the encouragement to the Czech component of the team. “The attitude of the team was great…filled us with hope and joy - especially when praying over the church leaders clothed in the Czech flag from World Prayer Center.â€Â
· Please pray for the Jews of Prague. “After going through the Holocaust Museum in D.C., God tenderized our hearts to pray through parts of what is known as 'the largest Jewish ghetto in Europe located in Prague.â€Â
· Pray for marketplace ministry that took place in Prague. “The Lord opened doors for powerful ministry to medical, dental and pharmacology students in Czech. The church we connected with had students from 13 nations!â€Â
· Pray for occult influences over Prague and the nation. “The Czech Church met in a building called “Medium Houseâ€Â. It had New Age and mystical groups meeting in it right before we held our prayer meetings.†Prayer turned to Holy Spirit spiritual-cleansing. “It made a difference!â€Â
· Pray for the fire of early reformers to return to the Czech Republic. “While in the church of pre-reformer, John Hus, which was built in the early 1400s, we spent time praying for nation-shaking leaders like Hus to come forth in our generation.â€Â
· Pray into the vision of the network that the Czech team members are affiliated with. They envision 200 new churches by 2010; “it’s a huge number in CZ.â€Â
· Praise God for His validation of work by one of the team members 16 years earlier that has remained. Several Christians touched by Christ during that time were met and they have remained steadfast all of these years. Praise God for this encouragement.
Hungary:
· Pray that the Gypsy Children’s Camp and puppet show outreaches in Orphan Homes in Nagydobos and Mateszalka by Baptists and members from the International Church of Debrecen bear much fruit.
· Praise God for the supply provided this work in the Debrecen area. A truck with building supplies, clothing, blankets, sheets, curtains, shoes, toys etc. for the outreach among poverty-stricken and down-trodden citizens. Pray for this work!
· Pray for the 14-18 August School of The Word in Graz, Austria with the topic being on spiritual fathering and mothering, and being a spiritual son or daughter -- a very needed topic in Hungary.
· Pray regarding the social uproar in Hungary concerning the strict economic measures of the new government. Withdrawn benefits, increasing taxes and the rising price of energy have made things very difficult for the people, especially those working in agriculture. The newly elected officials have drastically changed the economic picture and seem to have forgotten their promises.
· Continue to pray for the people and integrity in the political arena.
Poland:
· Please pray for the EEMN Center for Missions and Evangelism in Dziegielow, Poland where 61 present and future leaders from five other countries (Latvia, Czech Republic, Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine) in addition to Poland are being taught. Pray for God’s powerful working among these students to prepare them to take forth His message of salvation, transformation and abundant life.
· Pray with them for provisions to build a new dormitory for this school in Dziegielow. Pray it become not only a place of equipping, but of healing – spirit, soul and body. Pray healing first come to some students that “need real ministry and release from sin and bondages that keep them from a vital relationship with their Lordâ€Â.
· Pray for the ministry of the Polish Bible Retreat Institute as its accommodations are being made available as a camp for children and youth leaders who are using their summers to lead summer camps (i.e. Rainbow Harvest Camps). May this center build ministry leaders that will produce much fruit for the Kingdom of God.
· Pray for these camps that are probably already finished by now, that the works of Christ that these children and youth have been taught and experienced, will not only transform their lives but be multiplied among all of their friends, family and peers.
· Pray for other life-giving ministries in Poland that we haven’t heard from this month.
Romania: Please pray
· For revival of the Church in our nation! We need the Lord to wake up our spirit, and fill us with faith and power from His Spirit. Pray that the fear of the Lord will come in our hearts (Haggai 1:14) The Midnight is near – how are our lamps? (Matthew 25:1-13)
· And repent for all of our sins as a Church (Haggai 1:4-12). After almost 17 years of freedom, where are we? Let’s pray and repent for our indifference, religiousness and the compromises in our lives – that the Lord would remove any form of spiritual pride or self-righteousness.
· For a time of change in the Church – pray that we’ll accept the transformation and changes that the Holy Spirit wants to work in our character, in our priorities, our choices and mentality, and our ministry.
· For a time of establishment for each of us, in the place that God ordained us to be and serve. The Lord is calling us to a radical life and daily communion for and with Him.
· Continuing for the young generation. Pray for the corruption and all of the traffic networks to be removed (drugs, prostitution, and influence).
· For God’s intervention in the leadership structures of Romania – for decisive changes and political stability. Pray that every plan made against the integrity and security of Romania would be exposed and made powerless.
· For the legislative changes in Romania (i.e. laws of cults and minorities); for the reformation taking place (in justice, finances, education, health, army and national security) –that these would be right laws, stopping the abuse, deceit and corruption.
· For special wisdom for our leaders, that they would make alliances according to God’s will – especially regarding occult influences that underpin some of these unions or organizations. Pray for Romania’s relationships with Israel, USA, EU and our neighbors, that the Lord would correctly position us in these relationships.
· For peace and protection from terrorism, epidemics or natural disasters (Psalm 91).
· That the Romanians would recognize the time of searching, so that the hearts of people will be opened to the Gospel. Pray that the church would arise and bring the message of Life in the Lord Jesus to those in needs, to the hopeless and to those who are hunger for God. Pray for revival in Romania.
Slovakia:
· Pray for outreach in the sensitive climate for evangelism that exists in Slovakia. Pray for the efforts of Christian believers as they reach their nation for Christ. Pray also for the EHC-Slovakia Directors Odrej and Viera.
· Pray for the Romany of Cinobana, Slovakia that are unemployed, poverty stricken, marginalized. Though tending not to be open to the Gospel, in the past year, many have come to know Christ through churches that have been planted in their midst.
· Pray with the IN Network team that God will rise up, from that group people that God has called to become leaders in the church – lay leaders as well as the 5-fold ministry.
· Pray also for personal evangelism work among Slovak teens and young adults in their early twenties. The vision of “this youthful church body†is to plant a church in each town and village with at least 1,000 population in 40 years. Pray this occur even much sooner.
· Pray for the EHC outreaches to young people searching for meaning in life. EHC-Slovakia hosts a special internet chat room for young people and coordinates coffee house gatherings where they can discuss important issues and receive gospel literature. Pray that many will be drawn to Christ.
· Pray for the Answering Christ’s Call (ACC) School on 16-20 August in Licince. The “Manor†is at full capacity with students, praise God! Please pray for a hedge of protection around the students that nothing will disrupt them from coming. Pray for the teachers and interpreter plus the Director. Pray for God to move in the lives of everyone in the Manor as well as people in the village.
· Pray for the planning of a longer school at the Manor in September.
Slovenia: Pray for
· Wisdom in follow-up and discipling teens from the summer camps that were held across Slovenia this summer. Calvary Chapel Celje reports for their English Camp: “We saw the Lord do great things in our week-long camp in June, and want to be faithful to water and tend to the seeds that were planted. Pray for their hearts, for an eagerness to continue meeting and for a thirst for the things of God.â€Â
· The children’s ministries in the churches of Slovenia -- for workers, for good curricula, for the development of children’s worship, and for united hearts and vision in each of the life-giving churches. Pray for children to develop a deep love for Jesus and His Word in their early years.
· Slovenia Christians to grasp the concept that work they do for God’s Kingdom is “ministry†– as valuable to God as that in the pulpit. This is a worldwide problem in Christendom. Calvary Chapel calls for workers in nursing homes while other life-giving churches across Slovenia have needs as well. Please intercede for these needs.
RUSSIAN LANGUAGE NATIONS:
Armenia:
· About 94% of the 3 million inhabitants of this nation are Armenian Orthodox and not always open to receiving evangelical gospel literature according to EHC. Sometimes Police intervene and send workers away. Pray that EHC may continue.
· The Armenian EHC Director asks that we “please continue to pray for the constant need for funds to print gospel literature for Armenia. Praise Jesus for churches ready to work with EHC in Armenia.â€Â
Belarus:
· Pray for the “continued ongoing pressure against Christian ministry in this former USSR nation…The government in Belarus is not a democracy. It's actually considered to be one of the last communist countries, and there are many restrictions on the church there in Belarus. Pray that the Spirit continues to work in the hearts of its people and the officials of this government and nation.â€Â
· In the face of much opposition, the evangelical churches of Belarus diligently proclaim the Gospel and maintain a joyful testimony before their country. Pray for our brothers and sisters there.
Moldova:
· Pray for the funding urgently needed by Global Action “to continue providing hope and food for those without either in Moldovaâ€Â. This nearly destitute nation needs God’s glory to hover over it, bringing His mighty transforming power to change the whole environment.
Russia: Please pray
· For the Slavic Gospel Association-sponsored Bible schools and institutes as well as other life-giving ministries that “dig deeply into the treasure of God’s Work.
· For needed resources and changes for Russian prisoners. “Tuberculosis remains a problem…pray for the protection of their health in a very risky environment.â€Â
· For the UECB church in Ivanovo that has suffered arrests and growing pressure. Lift this challenged church before the Lord, asking for His protection, provision and anointing on their ministry.
· For the political situation. “Tensions between Russia and the West have been increasing of late due to differing views on a host of issues…Please pray that these disagreements will not be permitted to hinder the proclamation of the Gospel and the freedom of worship for churches.â€Â
· For the Christian literature needs across Russia. “The demand for Russian-language Bibles and biblically sound Christian literature remains high; resources for printing and distributing are limited.
· For the Foursquare-church effort to plant a church in Zavohzha, Russia. Pray for wisdom and creativity for the missionaries and the Russian church planters as this work is accomplished for God’s kingdom.
· For a young missionary family from the U.S. that are trying to get settled into their new quarters in Russia. Pray for their “safety, finding the right balance between ministry and family needs…and God's guidance in all our ministry undertakingsâ€Â.
· For the overflow of the women’s conference held in Magadan, Russia last month. Pray for relationships forged between women from North America and Russia become even stronger as they work together to complete everything God intended to be accomplished in all the hearts and lives.
· For the spirit and calling of Elizabeth Sandell that coordinated this conference continue to minister love and healing to those like herself, that suffered past betrayal, neglect and abuse as a result of alcohol dependency in her family and acquaintances.
· For a school scheduled for early November in Armavir. Pray for the visa process as well as communications with pastors there regarding details for facilities, lodging, food, helpers etc.
· For this ministry’s plans regarding training DVDs that will be coordinated with this November outreach. Pray that there will be no technical problems.
Far East Russia:
· Siberia – Pray for the EHC team coordinating gospel outreaches in Siberia, based in the city of Ulan-Ude. Workers often visit isolated villages where shamans (spiritual leaders who use magic and spells) offer guidance to the people. Pray for safety as workers travel and those who are reached with the Gospel will be saved.
· Khabarovsk. Many churches in Far East Russia have become mature of age and their pastors seek revelation on how to reap successfully the harvest in modern times. Many of them would like to receive revelation from God as a foundation for future growing. Please pray for God to reveal to them very clear vision and planning for establishing all 5-fold ministries in local churches. Far East pastors believe that now is the time to “create vine from water†for the glory of God coming on east of Russia and many souls will be saved after that. (.Is.42)
Ukraine: Please pray
· For the tens of thousands in Ukraine that need ministry like that in Magadan, Russia described above, desiring Jesus to be the Lord of their lives but “still seek to gain approval, trying to gain approval through performance…to be accepted …in order to be assured of love …from others…from God…from herself.â€Â
· Pray for the Ukrainian government. The next six months will probably reveal what the future looks like after the recent tumultuous elections that resulted in arch enemies sitting side by side in political offices. Pray that God will keep Ukraine on course . . . . His course.
· For God’s continued blessing and direction “for a new English-language church reaching into the many ethnic groups in Kiev. May their vision from God be accomplished for evangelism, discipling and leadership training toward reaching the lost for Christ and many church-plants in the region.
· For those Christians living in Ukraine that come from anti-democracy or anti-Christian nations and suffer persecution not only as foreigners, but from their own people and governmental representatives.
· For the student ministry segment to explode. “We will partner with several other ministries…expand our own ministry as God specifically directs...the harvest is ripe, it is huge, and it is way too big for us. We need help! Desperately!â€Â
· For the Church in Kiev, that it will be one of unity, faith, courage, obedience, and great power. Most congregations still prefer to work independently of each other. Pray that a network of mutual ministry, support, affirmation, and prayer can develop.
· For PrayKiev and their problem with internet service. The satanic roadblocks must come down!
· For a new church in Kiev that suddenly finds itself without sound equipment for ministry. Their First Anniversary celebration is set for September 3rd. Please pray for God to supply the solution to this problem. Email contact regarding solution is: rwbullard@fastmail.us .
· For the "Inter-Mission" prayer strategy for missionaries serving in Kiev as come together in a prayer gathering on August 30th. Pray good attendance and that new ones will learn of this ministry and join in praying for each other and the city.
· And praise God for what He has been doing in Crimea-Ukraine. The Human Aid container cleared customs in good time and the “River of Joy†property documents cleared their last hurdle in Kiev.
· Now for the ministry to “be able to proceed with 'privatization of the land under the River of Joy Foundation.†Thus, the land changes from “State†ownership to private, land values will be blessed, and ministry can proceed from this camp for kids from the poor and struggling villages in the region.
· For the “Light of Crimea Foundation†that is beginning a new ministry…from the gutter to a job and a home. They are ministering healing (spirit, soul and body) in the lives and families of homeless alcoholics and beggars. Those having no ID documents, a common problem, are being helped with these so they can get a job.
SILK ROAD NATIONSâ€â€EURASIA
Afghanistan: Please pray
· Praising our Heavenly Father for the greater freedom that Christians can now enjoy. Ask Him to continue to bless them so that many others would come to know Him.
· That through the Church, God would bring healing to this country which has been ravaged by war and oppressive regimes. Pray against a spirit of fear and for more teaching that Christians may gain a deeper knowledge of the Bible.
· For the Holy Spirit to counsel and comfort his Church through difficult and frightening times. Ask God to embolden them to live as light and salt, and to bless their witness with supernatural saving power (John 16:5- 15).
· For "Paul" conversions and Afghan believers themselves, begin to share their faith with others. Pray for spiritual breakthrough--there is a sense that God is "positioning" people to reveal His glory.
· For radio programs broadcasting 4-5 hours a day. Many have come to faith through listening to these programs. Pray that they will be even more effective.
· For ongoing Bible Translation projects and millions of Afghan Muslims to receive a life- transforming revelation of Jesus Christ and freedom to worship God according to their conscience, not by a dictatorial government- sponsored “police†department.
· For thousands of house churches planted all throughout Afghanistan over the next twelve months.
· For God and His angels to thwart a resurgence of the Taliban and the demonic forces that influence the Taliban followers. Pray against fear and suspicion over the practice of family killing of believers.
· For safe places for believers to meet in areas where the Taliban have strongholds.
· For Afghan women and girls to be protected from the Taliban, especially those who are studying in home schools throughout the country. Pray also for the brutal attacks against women and children to stop immediately.
· For greater unity amongst Afghan national leaders and foreign leaders there to encounter the love of Jesus Christ. Pray that leadership, especially President Hamid Karzai and his cabinet, not to bend to the influence of the Islamic extremists such as the recent approval of the possible return of Taliban’s religious police. Pray the Afghan Parliament will reject this bill that threatens women and Christians.
· Against government plans to re-establish the notorious Department for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice announced in June. The Afghan Parliament, which has 351 members, including 68 women, will consider the proposal, which came from the country’s Ulema council of Muslim clerics, when it reconvenes later this year.
Azerbaijan: Please pray
· For the Baku Bible Institute that “has performed in an outstanding manner in this 98% Muslim nationâ€Â. Recent developments have placed the future of the school in jeopardy because of issues that relate to the culture and to growing opposition. The Christian leader invited to speak at the May 25-28 graduation service asks us to please pray for his meetings with the leadership as together they seek the Lord's direction.
· For Christians in Azerbaijan who face opposition from the authorities. Ask God to give them wisdom to know how to respond, and how to stand firm in their faith.
· For Father God to give Christian Believers courage to speak out against oppression. Ask that we would see real change in this nation, so that people are free to share their faith.
Kazakhstan: Please pray
· For several schools in Almaty that train and prepare nationals for cross-cultural ministry. Pray that God would give these schools favor with the authorities and that many nationals would be trained to take the Gospel to the surrounding nations.
· For the city of Astana – a strategic place and needs spiritual breakthrough. Pray for churches and ministries in this city to prosper and for government officials residing here to look upon the church favorably.
· For the case of Yakov Skornyakpv who has now been heavily fined for leading an unregistered religious community. Pray that despite this verdict, attention would be drawn to the web of restrictive legislation which limits religious freedom in Kazakhstan and its eradication will follow.
Kyrgyzstan: Please pray
· For the economy in Kyrgyzstan where essential goods, including food, are scarce. The men mourn the loss of more prosperous days – many discouraged seeing no future. Pray for people’s needs, especially that the men see hope for the future.
· For Christians voices to rise up and call upon God to bring stability in the country that the populace will know of God’s mighty and wonderful hand in this.
· For strength and boldness for Muslim converts who face opposition and pressure to reconvert.
· Thanking our God as He remembers, comforts and encourages those who have been attacked in the past and pray that such persecution would cease completely.
Tajikistan: Please pray
· For the Tajik of Central Asia – followers of folk Islam, mixing animistic beliefs with the five pillars of the Islamic religion. The people fear the activity of demons bringing so many superstitions. Pray that Holy Spirit draw them to seek a living relationship with the One and only True God.
· For translation projects designed to put the Word of God into vocabulary that most Tajik can understand. The current Tajik version of the Bible is difficult for them to understand because it contains many words they have never seen before.
· For an open door for programs to be shown on national television in Tajikistan.
· For God to ordain significant opportunities for believers to share the Bread of Life with the Tajik of Central Asia.
· Concerning the planned new religion law, forcing religious organizations to be State registered. Ask Father God to intervene, ensuring that the law, which could have very serious implications for religious freedom, may not be passed. Ask that He would bring freedom to worship Him and to proclaim His truth to Christians in Tajikistan.
· Asking that God would reveal Himself to people across Tajikistan. Pray that Tajik Christians would be salt and light in that land and that God would give them a boldness to tell others about His love for them.
Turkey: Please pray
· For God to send revival to the youth of Turkey and for His Spirit to be poured out on university campuses. Pray for young people to see visions and dreams and be drawn into a vital relationship with Jesus Christ.
· For a group of people who have a vision to see 24/7 Prayer and Worship restored to the city of Istanbul. From around 400 A.D. and onwards for possibly hundreds of years, there was in Istanbul night-and-day prayer and praise carried out by groups of monks...The prayers of this monastery became so famous that they were credited with saving the city from destruction by fire in 465!
· For protection for national Christians and church property from attack by extremists.
· For a Protestant Church in the Northern city of Samsun where Nationalists have “stepped up a two-year campaign†against it. A vicious speech on June 16 was broadcast over 3 local TV channels attacked the church saying "I find this association and its secret activities a huge danger for Samsun and for Islam…This is treason against our Muslim and Turkish identity."
· Pray members of Agape Protestant Church will have the mind of Christ in dealing with those who oppose them. Pray God will strengthen them with the sure and certain knowledge that no weapon formed against them will prosper. Pray the Holy Spirit will overcome the spirit of nationalism and allow many Turks to find their identity in Christ.
Turkmenistan:
· Pray for 35 Christians that attended an unregistered Christian house group meeting in Turkmenistan's capital city on May 3rd. Without warrant Police broke up the meeting and confiscated personal belongings and subjecting the group to extensive interrogation and made them reenact the meeting for video purposes as evidence.
· Registration in Turkmenistan can be extremely difficult, and repressive government interference often cripples the activities of registered religious communities. Expecting continued police harassment, the Turkmen congregation appealed to fellow Christians around the world to pray for them. "We are now being investigated. We want prayer desperately."
· Pray God will use the video to lead the authorities to Christ, working His purposes in this raid to His glory. Pray the Holy Spirit will overpower the spirit of false religion.
· Pray that in spite of the discouragement, the Holy Spirit would encourage the Church to carry on meeting in spite of such opposition from the authorities.
Uzbekistan:
Since the early times of the Great Silk Road to Istanbul, Uzbek ethnic heritage has been linked to Islam. To be Uzbek is to be Muslim. But, in the last 15 years, the Gospel has begun to take root and there are an estimated 5,000 new believers across the country. Most of these are alone, or meet in very small groups, for fear of cultural and political persecution, and often for distrust of each other! Please pray:
· That Uzbeks all over the country would begin to value the truth of Jesus over tradition, asking that strongholds of distrust among believers give way to a powerful love and outpouring of the Spirit into the families and communities around them.
· For the worsening situation for Christians in Uzbekistan. Two more incidents have occurred – a pastor’s home and 3 Christians visiting a tuberculosis hospital for children. Police burst in arresting people for “breaking the laws on teaching religionâ€Â.
· Continue to pray for a church in Karaalpakstan that was closed down in May 2005 and members of the congregation continue to be harassed. Pray God will give Uzbek Christians a fearless confidence in their Savior.
· For the children who have been threatened by the police, that you would give them courage beyond their years and guard their families from attack.
· For a miracle from our omnipotent Creator to bring peace and justice to Uzbekistan.
· For workers that they would find favor with officials in obtaining visas to continue to live and work in the country.
· For an outpouring of the Holy Spirit among those in positions of authority to turn them to the One who loves them and wants them to know eternal peace.
· For the Western-funded aid agency, Central Asian Free Exchange (CAFÉ) liquidated in July and its foreign staff sent home. CAFÉ was charged with various procedural laws it had allegedly violated, in this case “doing missionary workâ€Â. The lengthy verdict claimed: "missionary activity will have fatal consequences."
· That Christians in Uzbekistan will remain faithful to the One who called them. Pray God will give humanitarian agencies creative ways of bringing aid into Uzbekistan. Pray the Lord of all creation will show Himself victorious to Uzbek authorities.
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Each of you can continue to help us in the following ways:
Send information to Roger Bullard (rwbullard@fastmail.us) who will take your updates and put them together so that we can forward them.
Send the prayer focus to others who you know will intercede, and encourage them to sign up for themselves.
Give us grace if we make a mistake and pray for us as we seek to see changes in these nations.
Pray for us to "connect" with many other intercessors so that our intercession will expand.
Finally, thank you for sending information regarding the prayer issues your nation faces that affect religious freedom, mission opportunities and social issues that would affect the Body of Christ.
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EASTERN EUROPEAN PRAYER UPDATE
Submitted from our Friends in Eastern Europe
Forwarded by Global Harvest Ministries
Watchman Report – a few quotes
“Pray for Israel. The Church of Christ is called to intercede for the chosen people of God. The enemy is threatening the existence of the state of Israel through the terrorist movements that are taking place on the land of Lebanon and Gaza Strip, and being also supported by Syria and Iran.â€Â
“With movies and news highlighting terrorism and fighting, it is refreshing to be reminded that most Muslims are just sincere people who live under a religious deception and need to hear to the truth. God loves these dear people.â€Â
“Pray for the protection of our soldiers and the salvation of the lost both in Israel and Lebanon. Pray for God's plans and purposes and for His glory. Israel is traumatized, shell shocked and fighting for her survival. Let us also praise God that our destiny is in His hands.â€Â
“Summer camps – hurting kids from drug and alcohol abuse situations and neglect transformed from mind-sets of hopelessness, insecurities, and low sense of self-worth to hope.†This hope of course, comes through the Lord Jesus Christ. Pray for these kids.
“Pray for the Gypsies of Barbulesti that recently received a truck full of clothing, shoes, and candy. They told us that there is no gospel witness of any sort for miles around. Their little gypsy assembly is the only one at all nearby. We told them we would ask prayer from our brethren in the West…1 Samuel 12:23-24â€Â. Romany villages are strung all across the former USSR/CIS and the persecution against them is intense.
1 Samuel 12:23-24 (New International Version)
23 As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right. 24 But be sure to fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.
BALKAN NATIONS
Albania:
· Pray for the GCCM dental clinic that was opened this month that as people are ministered to in this way, many will come to know Jesus Christ as Savior.
· Continue to pray for the blood feuds. Some Christian families even are in hiding. May God’s forgiveness principles be understood and they choose life rather than death.
· Pray for Christian workers rise up in Albania for God’s plans and purposes to be fulfilled. Some needed positions are: pastor, administrator, musicians, mechanics, computer-skills, English teachers, volunteer coordinators, church planters and volunteer teams for prayer and distribution.
· Pray for the Albanian-Gheg people living throughout the Balkan nations. One team is putting together a strategy to reach them and see a movement of God within. “Pray the Lord would give us wisdom for strategy to reach the Albanians.â€Â
· Pray for team leaders D&D who have identified Albanian contacts and formed relationships with them. May these visits lead to Bible studies. Pray especially for J. who is convicted to the point that he has arranged for a place to meet a few days ago. Being Muslim, J fears consequences to him or his family if he becomes a Christian.
· Pray that ongoing work in the villages “clean apple†and “cherry†will touch hearts to receive the Gospel and that the contact-families will be open to study the Bible.
· Pray for distribution of notebooks in the “village of love†school and for the November team coming to pray, distribute Gospel tapes, and conduct business seminars. Pray for the participants in these seminars.
· Pray for the mayor of major Albanian city and a local university for ministry opportunities in both places.
· Pray for a team from Oakland, Tennessee that is forming to come and assist this work in October. Ask God to convict those He is calling and anoint them for service.
· Pray also for “a series of teams coming to do business seminars. The first team comes in November to teach Finance. They will be teaching 12-15 business people skills that are basic to American business knowledge but not common knowledge over here.â€Â
· Praise God for the YWAM-Macedonia & YWAM-Albania combined DTS outreach in Durres. Awesome things God did! Pray for the local church that hosted them and their special ministry to orphan children.
· Pray for the “hundreds of people†from this predominantly Muslim city that “had the opportunity to hear the Gospel, many of which received a Gospel tract that includes a map of the location of the church.†Pray God’s hand in the follow-up and discipling.
· Pray for the outreach in Korce & Elbasan – that hearts of Albanians ministered to there open for the Gospel. Pray God's strength, protection, and anointing on the team.
· Pray the Holy Spirit to continue water the seeds that have been planted and for those seeds to take root and grow and to produce fruit.
· Pray that new regulations that come into force on September 1st concerning Christian worship and mission will not be interpreted harshly.
· Continue to pray for the work of the Roberts among Albanians in the Philadelphia area of the U.S. May the work they built in Albania continue to abound under Albanian 5-fold leadership. Relationship-building in Philadelphia is already opening doors for a church-plant in the Albanian community. See their quote in the Watchmen section above.
Bulgaria:
· Pray for the Body of Christ in Bulgaria to receive a fresh prophetic revelation of the harvest God purposes for souls in Bulgaria. Let new ways of the Holy Spirit come into the Church and futile mentalities broken, old structures – barren methods of evangelizing cease and be gone.
· Pray for the Strategy 24 initiative to go through the eight regions of Bulgaria in 24 months. In each region, there will be 2 months of informed intercession then the sponsoring Apostolic Reformed Church (ARC) will send teams during month three to all churches in the region open to work and pray together – everything for the harvest. The vision from the Lord, to reach one million souls by 2010.
· Currently Strategy 24 is in the second region. “We are praying for the connection with key leaders and pastors who would agree to stand these months together in prayer for the revival in the churches and fire for evangelizing.â€Â
· Praise God for the good reports of pastors from the first region. One who oversees several churches in the region said that his church in Vratza has increased for the last three months. The intercession (we), combined with a prophetic act “done together†with ARC teams on the top of a hill in that region had a probable impact. On August 14 the media reported an unseen growth in the salaries of people in Vratza. Their salaries for the last six months now rank second after the capital of Sofia.
· Pray for the very complicated political situation in Bulgaria. While on the threshold of EU acceptance, “we are still reforming as a society from the communismâ€Â. High corruption, poorly-functioning judicial system and low social status are major problems. Pray regarding:
o The added political implications of dealing with nationalistic parties and Muslim fundamentalists – that they not impede the nation’s progress.
o Corruption in high places affecting this “last stage†of communicating with the EU to become members in January 2007. “So we are working a lot on the issues like corruption in the high places.†Pray God’s will as the ungodly EU will certainly not save and transform the nation.
o Warfare with the mafia structures to be uncovered and judged! Praise God for His power and mercy for the Balkans’ region!
· Pray for the funding urgently needed by Global Action for them to continue providing hope and food for those without either in Bulgaria.
Croatia:
· Pray for successful ongoing YWAM DTS outreaches by the team – that people be touched by the good news and that this outreach will be a catalyst for future work.
· Pray also for the team (girls from Romania, Serbia, Hungary and USA) - to be open for God to use them the way He desires and to grow in their calling. Pray also for their debriefing time and good ending of their DTS.
· Praise God, “this year's camp has been another great event in the life of the Lord’s church in Croatia. Participants from five Croatian churches spent the most memorable eight days on island Krk in the Adriatic Sea.†Pray that the wonderful seeds planted in every life-giving church camp across Croatia, be watered, mature and bear much fruit.
· Another praise God, was the wedding of a staff member of the Institute of Biblical Studies. Pray for the young Christians in the body of Christ be an example – salt and light where the tradition has been building to just live together.
· Continue to praise God for the expanding radio ministry God is building across Croatia. In July, Brother Vlado signed another contract for a fourth radio station, “Radio Vukovarâ€Â. This is addition to the existing nine radio stations already in place. Pray for this work to grow and to be a life-changing force for all of Croatia.
Macedonia:
· Pray that the ethnic Albanians from Macedonia and Kosova vacationing on the Adriatic Sea at Durres also received Holy Spirit beaconing through the YWAM DTS teams ministering there. “Many Albanians from Kosovo and Macedonia come to vacation in Durres. We met many people who spoke Macedonian and/or English, which helped us to communicate more effectively during our times of evangelism.â€Â
· Pray for peace to change the atmosphere of ethnic hatred between Serbs and Croats that has hindered the spread of evangelism in some parts of Macedonia. “However, the evangelical church is growing†reports the Every Home For Christ (EHC) team.
· Pray for wisdom for EHC Director Bore Blazevski and his wife, Zaharula, as they minister in Macedonia.
Serbia and Montenegro:
· Pray for the coordinated effort through Every Home for Christ (EHC) to reach every home in that nation with the gospel – both Serbia and Montenegro. Pray for wisdom as the EHC team is being mobilized to accomplish this outreach.
BALTIC NATIONS
Estonia: Please pray
· For the activiation of common prayer of churches in Tallinn and Estonia.
· For the church to have great impact on society in Estonia.
· For more active and effective evangelisation of children and youth in schools and university.
· For unity of churches and progressive society in taking a stand against homosexuality and prostitution.
· For blessing and repentance among Jewish people in Estonia.
Latvia:
· Praise God for the many great things that have happened over the summer as a result of the efforts of many churches and organizations.
· Pray for the short term teams that ministered and impacted many towns in Latvia earlier this month---Sabile, Kursi¹i, Taurupe, Birzgale, Pitrags...and many other surrounding areas. That the seeds planted would bloom and much fruit would come forth.
· The planned Gay Pride March in Riga was cancelled due to public outrage, political opposition, and prayer from many Christians from diverse backgrounds. This continues to be a hot topic causing conflict and anger in society. The EU also is considering sanctions against Latvia....Please pray.
· Pray the Church of Latvia would quickly agree on how to frame "the Family issue…how to ask all political parties and candidates for Parliament to support the correctly defined “natural family†against all attacks and propaganda. Pray that intercessors hear God’s strategy for warfare on this matter.
· Pray for upcoming DTSs that begin in September (in Riga and Valdemarpils)---for more students to apply and finances released to cover the costs for each student, as well as short term outreach.
· Pray for the upcoming camp (last week of August) for people who want to get free from addictions. Pray for deliverance and for the power of God to set people bound up in long term addictions to get free, come to know the Lord and walk in a new life.
· Please pray for the Brazilian team that will minister for two weeks in various towns in Latvia.
· Pray against the spirit plaguing Bashkortostan where Latvian missionaries have been harassed by the police. God prevailed in their Vacation Bible School ministry in the city and the kids turned out to be an amazing testimony for adults to experience. Pray that the police will not again stop their bus on the way out looking for bribes.
· Pray for upcoming Latvian Parliamentary elections October 7th --- many people are disillusioned overall with the political parties and politicians. Scandals and disappointments over many years have added up. Many people have no trust whatsoever and don’t even want to vote.
· Pray for city churches to commit to do a 24-hour shift in 10 days of non-stop worship and prayer before the elections, and for the Lord to unmask the wicked and raise up the righteous.
· Pray for Latvia’s first National Prayer Breakfast on Sept 8th----250 political, business, and religious leaders will gather for this event. Pray God’s anointing on the organizers and program – that it would be more than just an event, but that significant things would take place.
· Pray for the continued growth of the Prayer and Worship movement in Latvia and to complete work toward establishing Houses of Prayer and Worship next to Parliament and elsewhere.
· Pray for new church-planting strategies that would impact an unchurched population and reach the unreached parts of society. Pray specifically for an increase of cooperation, wisdom, love, workers, finances and ministry in eastern Latvia.
· Please pray for the new Crisis Pregnancy Counseling Center that opened in Riga...
Lithuania:
· Pray God’s Spirit to overwhelm Lithuania and many come to know him. Pray against the increasing influence of materialism, secularism, eastern religions and cynicism. Pray for soft hearts and changed lives. Pray Christians follow the Bible, obey God and yield to him in all aspects of life.
· Pray God unites the entire Christian church in Lithuania and that if works effectively together for him. Pray against discouragement.
· Pray for the city of Klaipeda. Some churches have lost their pastors, for a variety of reasons. Pray for protection over clergy and leadership teams of churches and Christian organizations, in Klaipeda and elsewhere.
· Pray for good follow-up for all those who attended Christian camps and other outreaches, including language schools, over the Lithuanian summer. Pray those who don't have churches connect with Christians and churches and come into the fullness of relationship with God!
· Pray for the new Christian women's magazine 'Tapati' and the 'Good News Centre' radio station. In a country poor with modern Christian resources compared with the west, these ministries are even more vital. Pray for provision and favor for them, for God's outpouring on their work and for many believers and unbelievers to read and listen to them.
CENTRAL NATIONS
Czech Republic:
· Pray that the Gospel seeds planted by a joint outreach team of Czech and American evangelicals bear much sustainable fruit. At least 150 people came to a concert in the park and 80 to an outreach pizza party. The Czech pastor reports that a number of the newcomers have already connected relationally in small groups! People were saved and baptized in the Spirit and water. Praise God!
· Praise God for the encouragement to the Czech component of the team. “The attitude of the team was great…filled us with hope and joy - especially when praying over the church leaders clothed in the Czech flag from World Prayer Center.â€Â
· Please pray for the Jews of Prague. “After going through the Holocaust Museum in D.C., God tenderized our hearts to pray through parts of what is known as 'the largest Jewish ghetto in Europe located in Prague.â€Â
· Pray for marketplace ministry that took place in Prague. “The Lord opened doors for powerful ministry to medical, dental and pharmacology students in Czech. The church we connected with had students from 13 nations!â€Â
· Pray for occult influences over Prague and the nation. “The Czech Church met in a building called “Medium Houseâ€Â. It had New Age and mystical groups meeting in it right before we held our prayer meetings.†Prayer turned to Holy Spirit spiritual-cleansing. “It made a difference!â€Â
· Pray for the fire of early reformers to return to the Czech Republic. “While in the church of pre-reformer, John Hus, which was built in the early 1400s, we spent time praying for nation-shaking leaders like Hus to come forth in our generation.â€Â
· Pray into the vision of the network that the Czech team members are affiliated with. They envision 200 new churches by 2010; “it’s a huge number in CZ.â€Â
· Praise God for His validation of work by one of the team members 16 years earlier that has remained. Several Christians touched by Christ during that time were met and they have remained steadfast all of these years. Praise God for this encouragement.
Hungary:
· Pray that the Gypsy Children’s Camp and puppet show outreaches in Orphan Homes in Nagydobos and Mateszalka by Baptists and members from the International Church of Debrecen bear much fruit.
· Praise God for the supply provided this work in the Debrecen area. A truck with building supplies, clothing, blankets, sheets, curtains, shoes, toys etc. for the outreach among poverty-stricken and down-trodden citizens. Pray for this work!
· Pray for the 14-18 August School of The Word in Graz, Austria with the topic being on spiritual fathering and mothering, and being a spiritual son or daughter -- a very needed topic in Hungary.
· Pray regarding the social uproar in Hungary concerning the strict economic measures of the new government. Withdrawn benefits, increasing taxes and the rising price of energy have made things very difficult for the people, especially those working in agriculture. The newly elected officials have drastically changed the economic picture and seem to have forgotten their promises.
· Continue to pray for the people and integrity in the political arena.
Poland:
· Please pray for the EEMN Center for Missions and Evangelism in Dziegielow, Poland where 61 present and future leaders from five other countries (Latvia, Czech Republic, Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine) in addition to Poland are being taught. Pray for God’s powerful working among these students to prepare them to take forth His message of salvation, transformation and abundant life.
· Pray with them for provisions to build a new dormitory for this school in Dziegielow. Pray it become not only a place of equipping, but of healing – spirit, soul and body. Pray healing first come to some students that “need real ministry and release from sin and bondages that keep them from a vital relationship with their Lordâ€Â.
· Pray for the ministry of the Polish Bible Retreat Institute as its accommodations are being made available as a camp for children and youth leaders who are using their summers to lead summer camps (i.e. Rainbow Harvest Camps). May this center build ministry leaders that will produce much fruit for the Kingdom of God.
· Pray for these camps that are probably already finished by now, that the works of Christ that these children and youth have been taught and experienced, will not only transform their lives but be multiplied among all of their friends, family and peers.
· Pray for other life-giving ministries in Poland that we haven’t heard from this month.
Romania: Please pray
· For revival of the Church in our nation! We need the Lord to wake up our spirit, and fill us with faith and power from His Spirit. Pray that the fear of the Lord will come in our hearts (Haggai 1:14) The Midnight is near – how are our lamps? (Matthew 25:1-13)
· And repent for all of our sins as a Church (Haggai 1:4-12). After almost 17 years of freedom, where are we? Let’s pray and repent for our indifference, religiousness and the compromises in our lives – that the Lord would remove any form of spiritual pride or self-righteousness.
· For a time of change in the Church – pray that we’ll accept the transformation and changes that the Holy Spirit wants to work in our character, in our priorities, our choices and mentality, and our ministry.
· For a time of establishment for each of us, in the place that God ordained us to be and serve. The Lord is calling us to a radical life and daily communion for and with Him.
· Continuing for the young generation. Pray for the corruption and all of the traffic networks to be removed (drugs, prostitution, and influence).
· For God’s intervention in the leadership structures of Romania – for decisive changes and political stability. Pray that every plan made against the integrity and security of Romania would be exposed and made powerless.
· For the legislative changes in Romania (i.e. laws of cults and minorities); for the reformation taking place (in justice, finances, education, health, army and national security) –that these would be right laws, stopping the abuse, deceit and corruption.
· For special wisdom for our leaders, that they would make alliances according to God’s will – especially regarding occult influences that underpin some of these unions or organizations. Pray for Romania’s relationships with Israel, USA, EU and our neighbors, that the Lord would correctly position us in these relationships.
· For peace and protection from terrorism, epidemics or natural disasters (Psalm 91).
· That the Romanians would recognize the time of searching, so that the hearts of people will be opened to the Gospel. Pray that the church would arise and bring the message of Life in the Lord Jesus to those in needs, to the hopeless and to those who are hunger for God. Pray for revival in Romania.
Slovakia:
· Pray for outreach in the sensitive climate for evangelism that exists in Slovakia. Pray for the efforts of Christian believers as they reach their nation for Christ. Pray also for the EHC-Slovakia Directors Odrej and Viera.
· Pray for the Romany of Cinobana, Slovakia that are unemployed, poverty stricken, marginalized. Though tending not to be open to the Gospel, in the past year, many have come to know Christ through churches that have been planted in their midst.
· Pray with the IN Network team that God will rise up, from that group people that God has called to become leaders in the church – lay leaders as well as the 5-fold ministry.
· Pray also for personal evangelism work among Slovak teens and young adults in their early twenties. The vision of “this youthful church body†is to plant a church in each town and village with at least 1,000 population in 40 years. Pray this occur even much sooner.
· Pray for the EHC outreaches to young people searching for meaning in life. EHC-Slovakia hosts a special internet chat room for young people and coordinates coffee house gatherings where they can discuss important issues and receive gospel literature. Pray that many will be drawn to Christ.
· Pray for the Answering Christ’s Call (ACC) School on 16-20 August in Licince. The “Manor†is at full capacity with students, praise God! Please pray for a hedge of protection around the students that nothing will disrupt them from coming. Pray for the teachers and interpreter plus the Director. Pray for God to move in the lives of everyone in the Manor as well as people in the village.
· Pray for the planning of a longer school at the Manor in September.
Slovenia: Pray for
· Wisdom in follow-up and discipling teens from the summer camps that were held across Slovenia this summer. Calvary Chapel Celje reports for their English Camp: “We saw the Lord do great things in our week-long camp in June, and want to be faithful to water and tend to the seeds that were planted. Pray for their hearts, for an eagerness to continue meeting and for a thirst for the things of God.â€Â
· The children’s ministries in the churches of Slovenia -- for workers, for good curricula, for the development of children’s worship, and for united hearts and vision in each of the life-giving churches. Pray for children to develop a deep love for Jesus and His Word in their early years.
· Slovenia Christians to grasp the concept that work they do for God’s Kingdom is “ministry†– as valuable to God as that in the pulpit. This is a worldwide problem in Christendom. Calvary Chapel calls for workers in nursing homes while other life-giving churches across Slovenia have needs as well. Please intercede for these needs.
RUSSIAN LANGUAGE NATIONS:
Armenia:
· About 94% of the 3 million inhabitants of this nation are Armenian Orthodox and not always open to receiving evangelical gospel literature according to EHC. Sometimes Police intervene and send workers away. Pray that EHC may continue.
· The Armenian EHC Director asks that we “please continue to pray for the constant need for funds to print gospel literature for Armenia. Praise Jesus for churches ready to work with EHC in Armenia.â€Â
Belarus:
· Pray for the “continued ongoing pressure against Christian ministry in this former USSR nation…The government in Belarus is not a democracy. It's actually considered to be one of the last communist countries, and there are many restrictions on the church there in Belarus. Pray that the Spirit continues to work in the hearts of its people and the officials of this government and nation.â€Â
· In the face of much opposition, the evangelical churches of Belarus diligently proclaim the Gospel and maintain a joyful testimony before their country. Pray for our brothers and sisters there.
Moldova:
· Pray for the funding urgently needed by Global Action “to continue providing hope and food for those without either in Moldovaâ€Â. This nearly destitute nation needs God’s glory to hover over it, bringing His mighty transforming power to change the whole environment.
Russia: Please pray
· For the Slavic Gospel Association-sponsored Bible schools and institutes as well as other life-giving ministries that “dig deeply into the treasure of God’s Work.
· For needed resources and changes for Russian prisoners. “Tuberculosis remains a problem…pray for the protection of their health in a very risky environment.â€Â
· For the UECB church in Ivanovo that has suffered arrests and growing pressure. Lift this challenged church before the Lord, asking for His protection, provision and anointing on their ministry.
· For the political situation. “Tensions between Russia and the West have been increasing of late due to differing views on a host of issues…Please pray that these disagreements will not be permitted to hinder the proclamation of the Gospel and the freedom of worship for churches.â€Â
· For the Christian literature needs across Russia. “The demand for Russian-language Bibles and biblically sound Christian literature remains high; resources for printing and distributing are limited.
· For the Foursquare-church effort to plant a church in Zavohzha, Russia. Pray for wisdom and creativity for the missionaries and the Russian church planters as this work is accomplished for God’s kingdom.
· For a young missionary family from the U.S. that are trying to get settled into their new quarters in Russia. Pray for their “safety, finding the right balance between ministry and family needs…and God's guidance in all our ministry undertakingsâ€Â.
· For the overflow of the women’s conference held in Magadan, Russia last month. Pray for relationships forged between women from North America and Russia become even stronger as they work together to complete everything God intended to be accomplished in all the hearts and lives.
· For the spirit and calling of Elizabeth Sandell that coordinated this conference continue to minister love and healing to those like herself, that suffered past betrayal, neglect and abuse as a result of alcohol dependency in her family and acquaintances.
· For a school scheduled for early November in Armavir. Pray for the visa process as well as communications with pastors there regarding details for facilities, lodging, food, helpers etc.
· For this ministry’s plans regarding training DVDs that will be coordinated with this November outreach. Pray that there will be no technical problems.
Far East Russia:
· Siberia – Pray for the EHC team coordinating gospel outreaches in Siberia, based in the city of Ulan-Ude. Workers often visit isolated villages where shamans (spiritual leaders who use magic and spells) offer guidance to the people. Pray for safety as workers travel and those who are reached with the Gospel will be saved.
· Khabarovsk. Many churches in Far East Russia have become mature of age and their pastors seek revelation on how to reap successfully the harvest in modern times. Many of them would like to receive revelation from God as a foundation for future growing. Please pray for God to reveal to them very clear vision and planning for establishing all 5-fold ministries in local churches. Far East pastors believe that now is the time to “create vine from water†for the glory of God coming on east of Russia and many souls will be saved after that. (.Is.42)
Ukraine: Please pray
· For the tens of thousands in Ukraine that need ministry like that in Magadan, Russia described above, desiring Jesus to be the Lord of their lives but “still seek to gain approval, trying to gain approval through performance…to be accepted …in order to be assured of love …from others…from God…from herself.â€Â
· Pray for the Ukrainian government. The next six months will probably reveal what the future looks like after the recent tumultuous elections that resulted in arch enemies sitting side by side in political offices. Pray that God will keep Ukraine on course . . . . His course.
· For God’s continued blessing and direction “for a new English-language church reaching into the many ethnic groups in Kiev. May their vision from God be accomplished for evangelism, discipling and leadership training toward reaching the lost for Christ and many church-plants in the region.
· For those Christians living in Ukraine that come from anti-democracy or anti-Christian nations and suffer persecution not only as foreigners, but from their own people and governmental representatives.
· For the student ministry segment to explode. “We will partner with several other ministries…expand our own ministry as God specifically directs...the harvest is ripe, it is huge, and it is way too big for us. We need help! Desperately!â€Â
· For the Church in Kiev, that it will be one of unity, faith, courage, obedience, and great power. Most congregations still prefer to work independently of each other. Pray that a network of mutual ministry, support, affirmation, and prayer can develop.
· For PrayKiev and their problem with internet service. The satanic roadblocks must come down!
· For a new church in Kiev that suddenly finds itself without sound equipment for ministry. Their First Anniversary celebration is set for September 3rd. Please pray for God to supply the solution to this problem. Email contact regarding solution is: rwbullard@fastmail.us .
· For the "Inter-Mission" prayer strategy for missionaries serving in Kiev as come together in a prayer gathering on August 30th. Pray good attendance and that new ones will learn of this ministry and join in praying for each other and the city.
· And praise God for what He has been doing in Crimea-Ukraine. The Human Aid container cleared customs in good time and the “River of Joy†property documents cleared their last hurdle in Kiev.
· Now for the ministry to “be able to proceed with 'privatization of the land under the River of Joy Foundation.†Thus, the land changes from “State†ownership to private, land values will be blessed, and ministry can proceed from this camp for kids from the poor and struggling villages in the region.
· For the “Light of Crimea Foundation†that is beginning a new ministry…from the gutter to a job and a home. They are ministering healing (spirit, soul and body) in the lives and families of homeless alcoholics and beggars. Those having no ID documents, a common problem, are being helped with these so they can get a job.
SILK ROAD NATIONSâ€â€EURASIA
Afghanistan: Please pray
· Praising our Heavenly Father for the greater freedom that Christians can now enjoy. Ask Him to continue to bless them so that many others would come to know Him.
· That through the Church, God would bring healing to this country which has been ravaged by war and oppressive regimes. Pray against a spirit of fear and for more teaching that Christians may gain a deeper knowledge of the Bible.
· For the Holy Spirit to counsel and comfort his Church through difficult and frightening times. Ask God to embolden them to live as light and salt, and to bless their witness with supernatural saving power (John 16:5- 15).
· For "Paul" conversions and Afghan believers themselves, begin to share their faith with others. Pray for spiritual breakthrough--there is a sense that God is "positioning" people to reveal His glory.
· For radio programs broadcasting 4-5 hours a day. Many have come to faith through listening to these programs. Pray that they will be even more effective.
· For ongoing Bible Translation projects and millions of Afghan Muslims to receive a life- transforming revelation of Jesus Christ and freedom to worship God according to their conscience, not by a dictatorial government- sponsored “police†department.
· For thousands of house churches planted all throughout Afghanistan over the next twelve months.
· For God and His angels to thwart a resurgence of the Taliban and the demonic forces that influence the Taliban followers. Pray against fear and suspicion over the practice of family killing of believers.
· For safe places for believers to meet in areas where the Taliban have strongholds.
· For Afghan women and girls to be protected from the Taliban, especially those who are studying in home schools throughout the country. Pray also for the brutal attacks against women and children to stop immediately.
· For greater unity amongst Afghan national leaders and foreign leaders there to encounter the love of Jesus Christ. Pray that leadership, especially President Hamid Karzai and his cabinet, not to bend to the influence of the Islamic extremists such as the recent approval of the possible return of Taliban’s religious police. Pray the Afghan Parliament will reject this bill that threatens women and Christians.
· Against government plans to re-establish the notorious Department for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice announced in June. The Afghan Parliament, which has 351 members, including 68 women, will consider the proposal, which came from the country’s Ulema council of Muslim clerics, when it reconvenes later this year.
Azerbaijan: Please pray
· For the Baku Bible Institute that “has performed in an outstanding manner in this 98% Muslim nationâ€Â. Recent developments have placed the future of the school in jeopardy because of issues that relate to the culture and to growing opposition. The Christian leader invited to speak at the May 25-28 graduation service asks us to please pray for his meetings with the leadership as together they seek the Lord's direction.
· For Christians in Azerbaijan who face opposition from the authorities. Ask God to give them wisdom to know how to respond, and how to stand firm in their faith.
· For Father God to give Christian Believers courage to speak out against oppression. Ask that we would see real change in this nation, so that people are free to share their faith.
Kazakhstan: Please pray
· For several schools in Almaty that train and prepare nationals for cross-cultural ministry. Pray that God would give these schools favor with the authorities and that many nationals would be trained to take the Gospel to the surrounding nations.
· For the city of Astana – a strategic place and needs spiritual breakthrough. Pray for churches and ministries in this city to prosper and for government officials residing here to look upon the church favorably.
· For the case of Yakov Skornyakpv who has now been heavily fined for leading an unregistered religious community. Pray that despite this verdict, attention would be drawn to the web of restrictive legislation which limits religious freedom in Kazakhstan and its eradication will follow.
Kyrgyzstan: Please pray
· For the economy in Kyrgyzstan where essential goods, including food, are scarce. The men mourn the loss of more prosperous days – many discouraged seeing no future. Pray for people’s needs, especially that the men see hope for the future.
· For Christians voices to rise up and call upon God to bring stability in the country that the populace will know of God’s mighty and wonderful hand in this.
· For strength and boldness for Muslim converts who face opposition and pressure to reconvert.
· Thanking our God as He remembers, comforts and encourages those who have been attacked in the past and pray that such persecution would cease completely.
Tajikistan: Please pray
· For the Tajik of Central Asia – followers of folk Islam, mixing animistic beliefs with the five pillars of the Islamic religion. The people fear the activity of demons bringing so many superstitions. Pray that Holy Spirit draw them to seek a living relationship with the One and only True God.
· For translation projects designed to put the Word of God into vocabulary that most Tajik can understand. The current Tajik version of the Bible is difficult for them to understand because it contains many words they have never seen before.
· For an open door for programs to be shown on national television in Tajikistan.
· For God to ordain significant opportunities for believers to share the Bread of Life with the Tajik of Central Asia.
· Concerning the planned new religion law, forcing religious organizations to be State registered. Ask Father God to intervene, ensuring that the law, which could have very serious implications for religious freedom, may not be passed. Ask that He would bring freedom to worship Him and to proclaim His truth to Christians in Tajikistan.
· Asking that God would reveal Himself to people across Tajikistan. Pray that Tajik Christians would be salt and light in that land and that God would give them a boldness to tell others about His love for them.
Turkey: Please pray
· For God to send revival to the youth of Turkey and for His Spirit to be poured out on university campuses. Pray for young people to see visions and dreams and be drawn into a vital relationship with Jesus Christ.
· For a group of people who have a vision to see 24/7 Prayer and Worship restored to the city of Istanbul. From around 400 A.D. and onwards for possibly hundreds of years, there was in Istanbul night-and-day prayer and praise carried out by groups of monks...The prayers of this monastery became so famous that they were credited with saving the city from destruction by fire in 465!
· For protection for national Christians and church property from attack by extremists.
· For a Protestant Church in the Northern city of Samsun where Nationalists have “stepped up a two-year campaign†against it. A vicious speech on June 16 was broadcast over 3 local TV channels attacked the church saying "I find this association and its secret activities a huge danger for Samsun and for Islam…This is treason against our Muslim and Turkish identity."
· Pray members of Agape Protestant Church will have the mind of Christ in dealing with those who oppose them. Pray God will strengthen them with the sure and certain knowledge that no weapon formed against them will prosper. Pray the Holy Spirit will overcome the spirit of nationalism and allow many Turks to find their identity in Christ.
Turkmenistan:
· Pray for 35 Christians that attended an unregistered Christian house group meeting in Turkmenistan's capital city on May 3rd. Without warrant Police broke up the meeting and confiscated personal belongings and subjecting the group to extensive interrogation and made them reenact the meeting for video purposes as evidence.
· Registration in Turkmenistan can be extremely difficult, and repressive government interference often cripples the activities of registered religious communities. Expecting continued police harassment, the Turkmen congregation appealed to fellow Christians around the world to pray for them. "We are now being investigated. We want prayer desperately."
· Pray God will use the video to lead the authorities to Christ, working His purposes in this raid to His glory. Pray the Holy Spirit will overpower the spirit of false religion.
· Pray that in spite of the discouragement, the Holy Spirit would encourage the Church to carry on meeting in spite of such opposition from the authorities.
Uzbekistan:
Since the early times of the Great Silk Road to Istanbul, Uzbek ethnic heritage has been linked to Islam. To be Uzbek is to be Muslim. But, in the last 15 years, the Gospel has begun to take root and there are an estimated 5,000 new believers across the country. Most of these are alone, or meet in very small groups, for fear of cultural and political persecution, and often for distrust of each other! Please pray:
· That Uzbeks all over the country would begin to value the truth of Jesus over tradition, asking that strongholds of distrust among believers give way to a powerful love and outpouring of the Spirit into the families and communities around them.
· For the worsening situation for Christians in Uzbekistan. Two more incidents have occurred – a pastor’s home and 3 Christians visiting a tuberculosis hospital for children. Police burst in arresting people for “breaking the laws on teaching religionâ€Â.
· Continue to pray for a church in Karaalpakstan that was closed down in May 2005 and members of the congregation continue to be harassed. Pray God will give Uzbek Christians a fearless confidence in their Savior.
· For the children who have been threatened by the police, that you would give them courage beyond their years and guard their families from attack.
· For a miracle from our omnipotent Creator to bring peace and justice to Uzbekistan.
· For workers that they would find favor with officials in obtaining visas to continue to live and work in the country.
· For an outpouring of the Holy Spirit among those in positions of authority to turn them to the One who loves them and wants them to know eternal peace.
· For the Western-funded aid agency, Central Asian Free Exchange (CAFÉ) liquidated in July and its foreign staff sent home. CAFÉ was charged with various procedural laws it had allegedly violated, in this case “doing missionary workâ€Â. The lengthy verdict claimed: "missionary activity will have fatal consequences."
· That Christians in Uzbekistan will remain faithful to the One who called them. Pray God will give humanitarian agencies creative ways of bringing aid into Uzbekistan. Pray the Lord of all creation will show Himself victorious to Uzbek authorities.
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Each of you can continue to help us in the following ways:
Send information to Roger Bullard (rwbullard@fastmail.us) who will take your updates and put them together so that we can forward them.
Send the prayer focus to others who you know will intercede, and encourage them to sign up for themselves.
Give us grace if we make a mistake and pray for us as we seek to see changes in these nations.
Pray for us to "connect" with many other intercessors so that our intercession will expand.
Finally, thank you for sending information regarding the prayer issues your nation faces that affect religious freedom, mission opportunities and social issues that would affect the Body of Christ.
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