M
MrVersatile48
Guest
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Eastern European Prayer Update
Submitted from our Friends in Eastern Europe
Forwarded by Global Harvest Ministries
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BALKAN NATIONS
Albania: Please pray
· For 60 evangelical churches (~ 1000 believers) that will evangelize the capitol Tirana July 13-28. Pray that many people will come to knowledge of the Lord and salvation.
· For the YWAM Family Camp July 30 - August 6 in Borsh. Blessings and transformation have been fruits in former years. Pray for great attendance and a powerful move of the Holy Spirit among participants to refresh, restore and empower.
· For a fellowship that is arranging summer camps for hundreds of non-believing poor village children and presenting the Gospel to them. Pray for many open hearts, and a Harvest of many young souls.
· Again for the July 28-30 among the G., an unreached Slavic Muslim people group in mountainous eastern Albania. Amid ethnographic studies and intercession, about 18 Albanian and Macedonian believers will help the poor, do school repair and compassionately evangelize. Pray for financing, open doors and lasting fruit.
· For another outreach among villages of the Albanian Gheg people group through medical and dental care in relationship-building. "There were several opportunities to share Dad's story. Many were open to listen - the harvest season will be great!"
· For ministries like this one: "This year for the first time we have been thinking of sending the children in our church to camps but for this to happen we have to pay their way as they can't afford it."
· For a small farming project (5 ha; 12 acres) as they grow all types of produce, provide jobs (12 people now) and supply this ministry's feeding program with vegetables.
· For James Robison's Life Outreach International as they help projects like this one where the land is in the middle of a big area of usable land but it doesn't have water.
· Continuing for beneficial weather for these and other outdoor outreaches and events during this hot season of the year. We are told that Albanian summers can be very uncomfortable.
· For TWR and their Albanian partner Gospel Waves as they plan, organize and distribute "The Gift" a musical CD to 10,000 Albanian children. Already "this CD helped many children to understand salvation and follow Christ."
· Along with Albanian believers that have had 40 days of prayer and fasting for nation-wide repentance, and a great turning away from corruption and mammon worship.
· For changing laws in government - some corrupt and increasing taxes to an unreasonable extent. This is a serious hindrance to Christian ministries.
Bosnia-Herzegovina: Please pray
· Toward efforts of the Evangelical Church of Sarajevo are bringing evangelical churches of Bosnia together in unity. The men's retreat on mount Jahorina was a good example of this.
· Toward their evangelical outreach into the city, especially on the streets. Sometimes attendance is low, but "we believe that the seeds that were planted will bear fruit". Pray God's creative direction.
· For humanitarian projects like "Isaiah 58" where 10 families were adopted and blessed with food packages. Pray the love of Christ flow through the churches of B-H.
· For Christian camps for children from Sarajevo soon to take place at Capljina and for the other B-H camps. That children will all have a wonderful time, keep well and safe, and that hearing the Gospel, many of them and the adults who are with them will come to have a true relationship with the Lord.
· For the intervarsity English-teaching summer camp (Bible based) organized by Evangelical Christians for students from all over B-H. Pray for the Holy Spirit to draw them into the loving arms of Jesus.
· For more WYAMers to be called to Zenica, so that they can work as a team with the family there.
· For the Sarajevo AlphaMarriage Course this fall offered for married couples. Pray for a supernatural work in the marriages of those attending and opportunities to help others heal their marriages.
· For missionaries now abroad or on furlough, that they will be able to take care of personal matters with regard to their families, health, future plans and finance, and that they will return rested and refreshed.
· Thanking God for success in the first Evangelical/Orthodox outreach which has just taken place in Republika Srpska. Pray that Evangelicals will be able to help the Orthodox church to be a positive force in society, and that many more born again Orthodox believers will be called to the priesthood.
· For brotherly love to prevail between the Protestant churches; for forgiveness and repentance, so that the wounds they have suffered and inflicted on each other, however unintentionally, will be healed.
· Praise God that 275 people came to see the Jesus Film, which has just been shown in a strongly Muslim part of the county. Everyone received a copy of St. Luke's Gospel, 24 people write that they had accepted Jesus, and 10 requested a personal visit.
Bulgaria: Please pray
· For God's release of vision and strategies to Christian leaders in outreach to the unsaved people in Bulgaria. Region #4 is the "Strategy 24" focus right now and good connections must be established-especially cities Plovdiv, Pleven, Smolyan and their districts.
· In agreement with the 'Strategy 24" team, that all church leaders will catch the vision and their region produce a bountiful part of the vision for 1,000 000 born-again Bulgarians by the year of 2010.
· Against racism and racist acts in Bulgaria and specifically for Mike who was stabbed 4 times and almost died in an onslaught in the center of capital Sofia.
· For God's standard of morality in Bulgaria. There is a strong lobby to adopt EU "moral values", liberalism and lawlessness. Pray for a Christian civil association as they fight against a bill to legalize prostitution, decriminalize pornography and damage the family institution!
· Against blatant "sex tourism" on the Black sea coast as reported recently by an English journalist. Local under age children are involved. Business establishments are "adding fuel to the fire". Please pray this bill for legalizing prostitution to fail.
· For the Body of Christ to wake up and the saints to be mobilized in prayer and action. We also need wisdom and guidance from the Lord as well as protection and favor.
· For God's hand in wise management of EU funds now available through big financial fund entitlements for projects "which can help our country be richly blessed." Pray for projects and financial funds to be managed by righteous people.
Croatia: Please pray
· For the upcoming Calvary Chapel retreat in Croatia July 17th-23rd. For God's Spirit to meet us, refresh us, unite us, and minister to us. For guest speaker, Mark Walsh - for God's anointing upon him and his family as they spend the week with our church.
· For contact with churches and ministries for prayer points so that we can pray God's kingdom to come.
Kosovo: Please pray
· For unity in the Church of Kosovo-for a spirit of unity and humility among the 3 evangelical alliances and their 20 + fellowships and leaders.
· Into the former president's legacy. All of Kosovo was surprised by the news last year that the late President had become a Christian 2 years before he died. He is the hero of modern Kosovo and was a man of peace.
· Thanking God for the Western troops that have helped the small Evangelical minority be recognized as a legal religious community. Pray God's wisdom and power over believers as they use this open window to share the Gospel and harvest souls.
· Into the undecided future for Kosovars. Most seem secure that "independence should be granted soon", but feel betrayal by the international community for not opposing Russia's support of Serbian sovereignty. Pray for God's solution!
· For God's comfort to rest over the lives of Kosovars. Many fear new paramilitary uprising and unrest. Pray for peace and God's solution to the independence issue.
Macedonia: Please pray
· For the likely relocation of the YWAM base from Eastern Macedonia to the mainly Albanian and Muslim town of Tetovo this year. Pray for their need to find a suitable facility to rent, and to have favour with the population and local government.
· For a Caleb project as two teams begin 1 month+ of ethnographic research of the Albanian population in Macedonia. Pray for project success and for the church planting manual and a prayer booklet that follows. Pray for open hearts and doors toward seeing this people reached for the Lord.
· For great fruits from the 2-day Macedonian Watchman Prayer Assembly in May. About 45 people from 9 countries prayed, worshiped and prayer-walked for the kingdom of God to come to the 3 ethnic communities (Albanian, Macedonian and Roma) of Macedonia and the Balkans.
· Into the vision of opening a 24-hour house of prayer in Skopje. Recently, so many churches and so many people of all "walks" did this for 10 days and they tasted the fruits of what could be. Intercede that this vision becomes reality.
· As such fruits inspired churches to reach out to the disadvantaged and disabled. Mayors were asked how the church can help them. Donated wheel chairs from other nations were offered to the three ethnic communities. Pray they see Jesus in this.
· God's blessings from the Ohrid, Macedonia YWAM annual summer camp called Challenge for Change to continue to bear much fruit-not only in the DTS students which staffed it, but those to whom the team shared the gospel.
· For the YWAM DTS right now in Albania. Pray "that we have an effective time of ministry in Albania and the rest of the needed finances to come in."
· For YWAM Co-Leader Natasha-for God's hand on her pregnancy and the baby to go to full term; with natural delivery, quick and with no complications.
Montenegro: Please pray
· For the summer evangelism in Ulcinj to continue to go well. Financially-strapped local missionaries are paid to play music for the tourists out of a local bar-even worship songs unhindered by the Muslim owner. Afterwards many guests linger to talk with them about God till late in the morning. Pray for a great harvest of souls!
· For pastors working to establish an evangelical alliance among the 3-4 evangelical fellowships and a small number of house fellowships in Montenegro. Pray for the Holy Spirit to guide them.
· For this corrected (our apologies) June prayer point: Please pray for tourism in Montenegro from all over the Serbian speaking world, but also from the Albanians of Kosovo and Macedonia.
Serbia: Please pray
· That the 5-fold ministry gifts (Ephesians 4:11-12) "would be recognized along with many other gifts among God's children. The Church in Serbia needs to operate and walk in those gifts!"
· Thanking God that during one prayer campaign, He opened the doors of heaven and rose up intercessors, leaders and evangelists to be positioned on their places. Please pray especially that leaders see and seize the opportunity to make steps for change.
· "That this new sound above our country won't stop and declare that it will bring forth the roar of the Lion of Juda for Serbia!"
· "Into events here during this busy summer! Pray especially for the many camps to be held in Vrdnik, Aleksinac, Leskovac, Ada, Opovo, Subotica, Novi Sad, Backa Topola-children, teens and youth; retreats for couples, women, father-sons etc."
· For the Lord to make divine alignments with foreign-missions in this crucial time and that faithful and devoted servants would come to help us to build-up what the Lord has for the Body of Christ in Serbia.
· For great fruit to come from the 30 June-6 July outreach in Jagodina, organized by churches there. A group from England held concerts, an open service, children's ministry and shared the gospel.
· For the manifestation of Jesus during this event to endure and multiply in Jagodina and to the events now scheduled for Jagodina, Chuprija, Parachin, Strizilo and Kragujevac.
· Into the belief from Christians sending this report, that "heaven is opened up over Serbia, and we just need to continue in faith and prayers to move on, and take actions, as the Lord opens the doors."
BALTIC NATIONS
Estonia:
Please pray for Ellel Ministries Eastern Europe that ends on July 15th that much be caught as the students review their notes and recall the teaching, demonstrations and practice they received. May this be the start of great things to come for Estonia.
Lithuania: Please pray
· For God's presence and blessing on Christian camps and language schools being held this northern summer. Pray many would come to know him or deepen in their love of him and desire to serve him.
· For the Jazz Festival (July 13-15) and Sea Festival (July 27-29) in Klaipeda. Pray that God would speak through these secular events.
· For continuing growth in unity amongst all Christian churches and organizations in Lithuania.
· Praising God! We asked you to pray for provision for Christian ministers and other workers. At least anecdotally and God has been providing! Please continue to pray for his physical and spiritual provision and enabling for all serving him here.
· For the young people deciding to live together, rather than stay with their parents, or marry. Pray they would come to know God and choose his ways. Pray for clear Christian teaching within churches and for people to understand and obey God's word and will.
CENTRAL NATIONS
Czech Republic: Please pray
· For the many English camps going on in the Czech Republic during this month and next month. It's an opportunity to talk to 100's of kids more in depth about Christ.
· For workers - "This year we don't have a team, but I know about 5 others that do have teams coming."
· For revival in the church in the Czech Republic
Hungary: Please pray
· For the city of Szeged that on June 20-24 hosted a "Witches Festival". We are told that Szeged is the center of witchcraft in Hungary and has a long history of witches and witchcraft. An island on the river Tisa is called "Witches Island".
· Joining the prayer team and Christian believers in Szeged who are praying for GOD to break through the darkness and shine HIS TRUE light into the hearts of those who attended this event. Pray God's truth will fill the empty places of their hearts.
· For Ellel Ministry Eastern Europe's base near Budapest as they prepare for "the overwhelming number of Romanians" coming for a week of teaching and relaxation, either Aug. 13-18 or 20-25. Please pray for all the preparations for these schools.
· For the 16-21 July Agape children's camp and the 23-29 July Agape youth camp.
· For the 20-21 July: Life in the Holy Spirit teaching weekend at the Ellel East Center.
· For the 20 July-5 August Barnabas Missions Camp. This 12th this camp will have 100-120 participants over 17 years of age-50 Hungarians and many from Eastern Europe. After the camp, delegates will go for 10 days on missions in other nations.
· For the open-air concert "Gospel Nights" with the Continental Singers on 20 July in the town of Jaszbereny. Pray crowds come from the whole region for God's touch.
· For the 21 July "Worship Night" with Reuben Morgan in the town of Velence.
· For the 25-30 July Autonomous Church children's camp that God touch many lives.
· For the 28 July - 3 August Christeens Camp for teenagers at Kadakut that God's touch will transform many lives.
· For the 24 July-5 August Secular Arts Festival in the village of Kapocs. The Autonomous Church will present itself there with a new Christian drama.
· For the 4 August The Christian Family teaching day at the Ellel East Center-Hungarian teachers.
· For the 13-17 August School of the Word in Graz, Austria. Alan Vincent will teach on the Church-what it is and what it isn't, the relationship between the Church and the Kingdom, how is it governed and the ministries function.
· For the 13-17 August Perfect Comfort in God, a week of holidays with Otto and Sharon Bixler of Ellel Ministries Eastern Europe.
Poland: Please pray
· For more evangelical missionaries in Poland (Luke 10:2b). "We probably have the lowest number of evangelical missionaries of any country in the world," said the general secretary of the Polish Evangelical Alliance-only about 40,000 evangelicals and 180 evangelical missionaries in Poland out of a population over 40 million.
Romania: Please pray
· For Christian TV Alpha and Omega (the only one in Romania) and their websites as they seek for excellence in their programming. Pray for God to open many doors.
· For the Church to support Christian media ministries-written and the airwaves both in prayer and financially. Pray that these tools for spreading the Gospel would penetrate more and more homes so that people would be exposed to the Word of God.
· For the Ellel camp for young people, so many interested to live a victorious life in Christ. Teaching will be accompanied with creativity (i.e. drama, sports, games, etc).
· For Part II Ellel's teacher-training on July 27-28. Pray that the student teachers be equipped and gain vision to continue work in Romania, and that it be self-sustaining.
· Into the problem of Romanian intellectuals going west for a better life. Some say it "will become a country of elderly and orphans". Speak words of life into that situation! That will not happen - Romania will stand for Christ and prosper!
· Continuing for revival of the Church in Romania - for God to revive spirits of believers and fill them with faith, strength and fear of the Lord. Pray against passivity, false spirituality and compromise and for return to their first love!
· That we would receive the transformation and change in the Church as the Holy Spirit molds character, priorities, choices and mentality, both personally and in ministry. "The Lord is calling us to radically live for Him."
· For the young generation-protection for them, during vacation, camps or Christian conferences this summer season. Pray that the Lord would set them on fire for Him.
· For decisive shifts in the leadership structure of Romania that will eliminate compromise and corruption that now blocks the functional mechanism of the nation.
· For right relationships between Parliament, government and the Presidency-that they would act in fear of the Lord. Pray for political stability and that every scheme of the enemy to bring confusion over the land would be destroyed.
· For wisdom and integrity for the leaders of Romania, that they would make alliances according to God's will and for relationships with the USA, EU, Russia and our neighbors "would put us in the right position as a nation".
· For the future constitution (Pact) of the EU, that Romania would have the boldness to firmly pronounce against those laws that break the Christian norms of life.
· For the peace of Romania and protection against epidemics and natural disasters.
Slovakia: Please pray
· For the fourth week of Ellel's Counseling School coming up July 22 -26. Please pray for the students that they will be able to return, and that God would minister to them.
· For anointing by the Holy Spirit over the teachers, interpreter, ministry team and the students that God's message will come forth with fire and transform student lives.
Slovenia: Please pray
· For multiple camps this summer, especially youth and children, in Slovenia. Pray for whole youth groups to be raised up, and for conversions that result in baptisms.
· For "Trubar 2008", the 500th anniversary of the birth of Slovenia's protestant reformer. Pray for wisdom as specific people now plan and prepare. Pray as they pursue major donors for some huge projects that would impact the whole nation.
· For the church in Kranj, as one ministry pursues buying the location. Pray for favor and provision from the Lord for a church location in this important city.
· For a blessed and successful Calvary Chapel Celje (CCC) English Camp 2007! "Two weeks before Camp we were told we had to find an alternate facility - and God gave us a BETTER one, an entire house with perfect classroom space, assembly room, and a huge yard."
· As "good soil" (i.e. parable of the sower) manifests in these camps. Themes, such as English, are an excellent way to reach those who have never heard, but empower also those that will carry the torch for Jesus in the future (i.e. as per CCC camp report).
· For God's sustaining power and faithfulness in the midst of physical tiredness, weariness, and spiritual warfare and in the end for blessing and encouraging all those who took part in such a demanding outreach-for all Christian camps this summer.
· For God to water the seeds of truth planted in the hearts of youth attending the CCC camp-and other camps this summer. For effective and fruitful follow-up activities, and for His leading in timing in starting a Bible Study or house-group back home.
· For the countless other students across Slovenia who were awakened to the power of God's Word - that they might hunger to seek and find. For the students with doubts and questions - that Jesus might reveal Himself to them.
· For the city of Velenje, where a majority of the students came from - for God to show us how to reach out to that city and in which capacity.
RUSSIAN LANGUAGE NATIONS
Please pray as restrictions on evangelical church ministry continue to tighten across the CIS, some congregations who conduct SGA-sponsored Orphans Reborn ministries are facing increased difficulties on the local level. Ask God to turn hearts of those opposed to the Gospel, and make a way for the children to hear of Christ's love for them.
Belarus: Please pray
· For 19 Catholics and Protestants detained by Belarusian police because they were petitioning to change the harsh Religion Law. The arrests happened after signatures were collected at a prominent Catholic pilgrimage site, Budslav, and in the capital Minsk.
· For evangelical believers in Belarus, as they continue to encounter significant opposition.
Russia: Please pray
· For God's wisdom regarding attempts to build the church through theological seminaries: "in spite of the graduation of hundreds of students with degrees in theology and ministry, many churches prefer to ordain uneducated laymen because they are more "like them. Unlike seminary graduates, such ministers do not ask for financial support because they hold a job."
· For the "Salvation in Jesus" congregation located in Chita, Siberia that manages 3 substance abuse rehabilitation centers and 2 prison ministry shelters and bring much fruit into the Kingdom. Arsonists have destroyed 2 buildings and attempted a third.
· As news the Russian government is establishing a new agency for media and Internet oversight. Pray that the churches' freedom to proclaim the Gospel and to fully use the Internet will be protected despite potential new restrictions.
Far East Russia: Please pray
For the Altai region, "an area that is very spiritually dark and oppressed."
First, Protestant interns from Moscow came for outreach. Also, intercessors prayed and offenders in the rape of two girls ages 8 & 9 were found - God was in town!
"Now, fortune tellers have put pressure on Islamic, Shamanistic and Orthodox authorities to bring pressure against the Protestant Church." They started fighting against us and putting all kinds of "dirt" in the media against the church.
All Institutes were given an order not to collaborate with churches. There is propaganda everywhere in schools, village meetings, etc against the church. One church was kicked out from a rental building by the government. Another church which had about 100 members, many of them students, now only has 2 families left." Please pray for:
· God's protection over believers and ministers
· Wisdom for churches and boldness to stand against this pressure.
· Unity between churches and believers. (This is improving!)
· Good relationship between the church and the government
· Revival in the Altai region
Ukraine: Please pray
· For Good Shepherd Shelter Makeevka, Ukraine - "that God may show us right direction in reaching people and serving their needs, that every pressure and traps from the devil may be taken away, that the pastors and the leaders maybe under strong God's anointing and hear clearly the Voice of God."
· God's provision for their work in the Carpathian Mountains as they work with needy, lonely and abandoned, esp. children. Pray for financial support, laborers for the kingdom of God and "land where we can build a center in order to help that region."
· God's purpose, provision and direction for camps all across Ukraine that even the poorest can attend. Pray for an outpouring of His Spirit on each camp and an atmosphere of love and joy where kids form relationships with each other and staff.
· For anointing on the preaching and teaching with repentance, cleansing and God pouring fresh fire into personal lives and into each church involved. Pray for salvations (spirit & soul) and for new hope.
· For the political situation - peaceful solutions and wisdom to the president. The 30 September special election could become a major factor in the future of missionary activity in Ukraine. "Political doors are increasing factors that call us to plant and harvest while it is day."
· For God's provision in support of a Chinese pastor that recently came to Kiev and then lost his financial support. Since arriving, more than 40 Chinese have been saved and many of them baptized.
· For 2 Christians as they share the Gospel with friends and family in their homelands - probably closed nations. One member is a leader in a subterranean group. Pray for their safe return to Kiev, and for safety and success in their homelands.
· For those with skin color other than white. "White supremacy" is rampant and Internationals suffer intimidation, verbally and physically with attacks, robberies, beatings and even sometimes death.
· Against corruption that penetrates every strata of society-especially in Kiev. Righteousness, honor, and integrity, is rare, particularly among the law enforcement agencies and the political circles.
· That God will convict and bring to justice all practicing such evil. Pray that God's people will take a stand and declare that righteousness and justice must be the standard of life.
· For ministry to the Jews-open doors and God's anointed compassion to flow in love.
· For orphanages, many filled with mentally and physically handicapped children who have essentially been abandoned by family. Pray for financial provision to flow for enabling many of these children to attend Christian camps this summer.
· To the Lord of the Harvest for workers (Luke 10:2b). Many volunteers are needed for kingdom work all over Ukraine. "The harvest is truly a "bumper crop", and we need workers to help bring it in. We need people."
· For Bridges of Peace Foundation that has sent short term teams to Crimea, Ukraine in outreach to children. Pray God's creativity and wisdom over this team as they explore how they can help the River of Joyproject already in place.
· For good homes for the aged in Ukraine. "It is another URGENT Crimean ministry need."
· For abandoned children - so many-especially for a family that has taken in 12 of them. Their neighbors are livid, even Christians criticize a pastor for helping them. But praise God, "guardianship rights on the children are being settled in their favor".
· For another blessing! A governing official that viewed this situation and played with the children offered to give property now vacant for a new children's camp.
· For the "Bum-zhe" or invisible people that have no ID documents and live on the streets. Bureaucratic tangles make it almost impossible to get one. That makes social services, medical aid and housing impossible for them to get. Without papers, they are invisible, nonentities in the eyes of the state.
· For Dr. Tatiana as she takes on this cause with considerable success. Several of her handicap cases are being heard. For example, Nikolai who lost his hands and feet to frostbite and living in a ruin, got a location ID and can now get a pension and place to live.
SILK ROAD NATIONS
Afghanistan:
Please pray for Christian converts from Islam in Afghanistan who have been rejected.
Armenia:
Please pray for the home-to-home distribution in Nagorno Karabakh where EHC is working in conjunction with a local church that has a vision to share the Gospel, not only in their area, but also in surrounding nations. Pray that this effort would bear much fruit and other churches would want to join the effort.
Azerbaijan: Please pray
· For an imprisoned Baptist pastor that has been transferred to the prison infirmary because of serious heart problems and health affected by heat and poor prison conditions. His wife has traveled several times to see him and take him food. Ask God to heal his heart condition and for financial needs of the family.
· For a Baptist pastor who was detained by police during a worship service and now could face three years in prison for "resisting government representatives." Pray for his quick release and the prison sentence be overturned.
· For God to strengthen and encourage two journalists jailed for comparing Christian and Islamic values in a newspaper article. Thanking Him for their integrity and courage, ask that their prison sentence be overturned and that freedom of religious expression be allowed in the press.
· For an end to the hostility Christians regularly face from authorities.
Kazakhstan: Please pray
· Regarding a new bill already drafted and presented for consideration, that if passed would greatly limit religious freedom. The Prime Minister has not yet signed and presented it to Parliament. Pray as believers present their concerns to Parliament.
· Specifically for "AROK" the pastor's association that has a voice with government. Pray they have an opportunity to participate in the deliberation process and the government will consider their concerns and those of other religious organizations.
· Continuing for an end to governmental hostility toward non-traditional denominations (i.e. Baptists) they call a "sect". Recent documents illustrate "how to avoid getting trapped in 'sects'. Pray for freedom to worship God without government pressure.
Kyrgyzstan: Please pray
· For a pastor living in a city bordering China. Gifts from England (i.e. pens, notebooks, crayons) that he gives children have produced life. There are more than 1000 Muslims with children that hear him preach 3 times a day and the church was full of people on Sunday. Praise God they are so hungry!!!
· For a Christian group of singers from America as they minister in the city and region. "So, please pray if RUACH HAKODESH will remind about this requests, because this is my people is a Muslim people, that Yeshua send real revival and salvation and repenting."
· For "protection from any kind of Islamist group like Hisbutahrir, and Al-Qaeda, so Yeshua cover and send angels to my family parent and my brothers family - Because each time when revival also coming persecution, so that Yeshua protect each believers there and send mercy and protection, salvation to my people Kyrgyzstan."
· "For my family, daughter T. T., for her growing in His knowledge and love. She is now 8 month, and for my husband H., that we are hearing His voice and growing in His love and knowledge, that Yeshua use us for His glory."
· For stability in the government and a positive attitude towards Protestants. A key figure in government reports an agenda to limit religious freedom in the country.
· For a group of people involved in government who are working to establish a base of justice and plan for the country to move forward economically without corruption.
· Continuing for believers, especially in the south, who are experiencing great persecution from their communities. However, in spite of this, there are reports of God doing miracles and many people coming to faith!
· For the work of Christians tackling poverty in Kyrgyzstan.
Tajikistan: Please pray
· Over the latest draft of the Religion Law which may be interpreted to ban all unregistered religious activity including sharing one's faith. Religious education in private houses is forbidden and kids under-seven none at all. Youth could not join religious organizations.
· Regarding conditions for legal status. Registration requirements include an absurd number of signatures from members to apply. This number exceeds the size of any existing church in Tajikistan. All would need to re-register, then fail and be closed.
Turkey: Please pray
· Continuing for the families and loved ones of the three men martyred in April. Pray God heal their hearts and meet their needs. Some Christians have been targeted in media coverage - pray for their protection and God's provision for them.
· That Muslims in Turkey will be drawn to ask why these three men were willing to die, and through their testimonies will be drawn to faith in Christ. Psalm 68:5.
· Regarding parliamentary elections on 22 July, pivotal for Turkey's future because it could have a crucial impact on the presidential election this fall. "There is deal-making and much is at stake. Both elections will strongly influence the chances of greater freedom of thought, conscience and belief.
· Especially concerning media coverage of the elections. In one commentary: "No political party with any chance of gaining real power wants either to tackle the dangerous media intolerance of religious minorities or to take the dramatic changes necessary to usher in genuine religious freedom."
· For a result that will help the truth of the Gospel to spread in Turkey.
Turkmenistan:
· For a Baptist man who was recently sentenced to three years in a labour camp as a result of "illegally crossing a border" for Christian activities. Pray for his perseverance, that his time in detention be useful and he be granted early release.
· For his family. The camp is 750 miles from his home and while in-transit, armed guards with machine guns denied the family the opportunity to see him.
· For Wendy Lucas, a US citizen whose husband has been denied permission to leave Turkmenistan since January. The Turkmen Ambassador to the US has not cooperated, though the exit-ban has kept him from yet seeing his first-born daughter, born in May.
· Also for Yevgeny Potolov, head of a Council of churches Baptist congregation in Turkmenbashi, detained by police on 19 May. Police refused to tell his wife why he was being held in a detention center. Apparently, secret police are handling the case.
· That improvement in religious freedom becomes evident under their new leader and for Christians to be free from persecution and allowed to be involved in bringing transformation to this troubled nation.
Uzbekistan: Please pray
· For imprisoned Pentecostal pastor, Dmitry Shestakov that has now been transferred from an "open-camp" to a harsher labor camp in Navoi where he has lost over 33 pounds. Former prisoners say Camp #29 is unsanitary and has dangerous living and working conditions. Many are sick. Guards beat them with truncheons and members of criminal gangs have a ruthless hold over other prisoners.
· That he will stand strong in the face of interrogations and hard conditions. Good news is that God is doing miracles and protecting him. An "extremely harsh" prison official was removed from office the day Dimitri was transferred. The new man is much more lenient. One day Dimitri was called in for interrogation and he was expected to be horribly physically abused but no one laid a hand on him.
· For Pastor Dimitri's wife-demonstrating unbelievable strength in this situation. Pray for God to continue to minister to her and the children.
· For his congregation. The assistant pastor continues to lead the church. Pray for supernatural strength for this congregation to continue to stand strong. Authorities claim Pastor Dmitry misbehaved but Christians say it was a setup while administrative trials are being prepared against church members.
· For 2 members of a Pentecostal Church, who spent ten days in prison in June after being found guilty of violating laws on religion and "illegal" religious teaching. Pray their bold stand for the Lord Jesus Christ be rewarded and bring much fruit.
· For a Baptist woman held four days in June after officials discovered Christian books and tapes in her bag during a late-night bus inspection as she returned to her village. She now faces criminal prosecution for violating the laws on religion with three years imprisonment if convicted.
· For Z., threatened by local Muslims not to go to church. After ignoring the threats he was beaten up. His mother took his name off the deed to the family property. He was told to leave his home and region by 1 July.
· Regarding news of government plans to further restrict religious activity. Pray that the government will be convicted of those polices which are unjust and that this will mark the beginning of a period of greater freedom for Christians in the nation.
· For God's loving care over the Church of Uzbekistan and Christians to not be discouraged. In the natural pressure against Christians is getting worse. Virtually all foreign workers have been forced to leave the country.
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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 compile 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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Forward email
Eastern European Prayer Update
Submitted from our Friends in Eastern Europe
Forwarded by Global Harvest Ministries
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BALKAN NATIONS
Albania: Please pray
· For 60 evangelical churches (~ 1000 believers) that will evangelize the capitol Tirana July 13-28. Pray that many people will come to knowledge of the Lord and salvation.
· For the YWAM Family Camp July 30 - August 6 in Borsh. Blessings and transformation have been fruits in former years. Pray for great attendance and a powerful move of the Holy Spirit among participants to refresh, restore and empower.
· For a fellowship that is arranging summer camps for hundreds of non-believing poor village children and presenting the Gospel to them. Pray for many open hearts, and a Harvest of many young souls.
· Again for the July 28-30 among the G., an unreached Slavic Muslim people group in mountainous eastern Albania. Amid ethnographic studies and intercession, about 18 Albanian and Macedonian believers will help the poor, do school repair and compassionately evangelize. Pray for financing, open doors and lasting fruit.
· For another outreach among villages of the Albanian Gheg people group through medical and dental care in relationship-building. "There were several opportunities to share Dad's story. Many were open to listen - the harvest season will be great!"
· For ministries like this one: "This year for the first time we have been thinking of sending the children in our church to camps but for this to happen we have to pay their way as they can't afford it."
· For a small farming project (5 ha; 12 acres) as they grow all types of produce, provide jobs (12 people now) and supply this ministry's feeding program with vegetables.
· For James Robison's Life Outreach International as they help projects like this one where the land is in the middle of a big area of usable land but it doesn't have water.
· Continuing for beneficial weather for these and other outdoor outreaches and events during this hot season of the year. We are told that Albanian summers can be very uncomfortable.
· For TWR and their Albanian partner Gospel Waves as they plan, organize and distribute "The Gift" a musical CD to 10,000 Albanian children. Already "this CD helped many children to understand salvation and follow Christ."
· Along with Albanian believers that have had 40 days of prayer and fasting for nation-wide repentance, and a great turning away from corruption and mammon worship.
· For changing laws in government - some corrupt and increasing taxes to an unreasonable extent. This is a serious hindrance to Christian ministries.
Bosnia-Herzegovina: Please pray
· Toward efforts of the Evangelical Church of Sarajevo are bringing evangelical churches of Bosnia together in unity. The men's retreat on mount Jahorina was a good example of this.
· Toward their evangelical outreach into the city, especially on the streets. Sometimes attendance is low, but "we believe that the seeds that were planted will bear fruit". Pray God's creative direction.
· For humanitarian projects like "Isaiah 58" where 10 families were adopted and blessed with food packages. Pray the love of Christ flow through the churches of B-H.
· For Christian camps for children from Sarajevo soon to take place at Capljina and for the other B-H camps. That children will all have a wonderful time, keep well and safe, and that hearing the Gospel, many of them and the adults who are with them will come to have a true relationship with the Lord.
· For the intervarsity English-teaching summer camp (Bible based) organized by Evangelical Christians for students from all over B-H. Pray for the Holy Spirit to draw them into the loving arms of Jesus.
· For more WYAMers to be called to Zenica, so that they can work as a team with the family there.
· For the Sarajevo AlphaMarriage Course this fall offered for married couples. Pray for a supernatural work in the marriages of those attending and opportunities to help others heal their marriages.
· For missionaries now abroad or on furlough, that they will be able to take care of personal matters with regard to their families, health, future plans and finance, and that they will return rested and refreshed.
· Thanking God for success in the first Evangelical/Orthodox outreach which has just taken place in Republika Srpska. Pray that Evangelicals will be able to help the Orthodox church to be a positive force in society, and that many more born again Orthodox believers will be called to the priesthood.
· For brotherly love to prevail between the Protestant churches; for forgiveness and repentance, so that the wounds they have suffered and inflicted on each other, however unintentionally, will be healed.
· Praise God that 275 people came to see the Jesus Film, which has just been shown in a strongly Muslim part of the county. Everyone received a copy of St. Luke's Gospel, 24 people write that they had accepted Jesus, and 10 requested a personal visit.
Bulgaria: Please pray
· For God's release of vision and strategies to Christian leaders in outreach to the unsaved people in Bulgaria. Region #4 is the "Strategy 24" focus right now and good connections must be established-especially cities Plovdiv, Pleven, Smolyan and their districts.
· In agreement with the 'Strategy 24" team, that all church leaders will catch the vision and their region produce a bountiful part of the vision for 1,000 000 born-again Bulgarians by the year of 2010.
· Against racism and racist acts in Bulgaria and specifically for Mike who was stabbed 4 times and almost died in an onslaught in the center of capital Sofia.
· For God's standard of morality in Bulgaria. There is a strong lobby to adopt EU "moral values", liberalism and lawlessness. Pray for a Christian civil association as they fight against a bill to legalize prostitution, decriminalize pornography and damage the family institution!
· Against blatant "sex tourism" on the Black sea coast as reported recently by an English journalist. Local under age children are involved. Business establishments are "adding fuel to the fire". Please pray this bill for legalizing prostitution to fail.
· For the Body of Christ to wake up and the saints to be mobilized in prayer and action. We also need wisdom and guidance from the Lord as well as protection and favor.
· For God's hand in wise management of EU funds now available through big financial fund entitlements for projects "which can help our country be richly blessed." Pray for projects and financial funds to be managed by righteous people.
Croatia: Please pray
· For the upcoming Calvary Chapel retreat in Croatia July 17th-23rd. For God's Spirit to meet us, refresh us, unite us, and minister to us. For guest speaker, Mark Walsh - for God's anointing upon him and his family as they spend the week with our church.
· For contact with churches and ministries for prayer points so that we can pray God's kingdom to come.
Kosovo: Please pray
· For unity in the Church of Kosovo-for a spirit of unity and humility among the 3 evangelical alliances and their 20 + fellowships and leaders.
· Into the former president's legacy. All of Kosovo was surprised by the news last year that the late President had become a Christian 2 years before he died. He is the hero of modern Kosovo and was a man of peace.
· Thanking God for the Western troops that have helped the small Evangelical minority be recognized as a legal religious community. Pray God's wisdom and power over believers as they use this open window to share the Gospel and harvest souls.
· Into the undecided future for Kosovars. Most seem secure that "independence should be granted soon", but feel betrayal by the international community for not opposing Russia's support of Serbian sovereignty. Pray for God's solution!
· For God's comfort to rest over the lives of Kosovars. Many fear new paramilitary uprising and unrest. Pray for peace and God's solution to the independence issue.
Macedonia: Please pray
· For the likely relocation of the YWAM base from Eastern Macedonia to the mainly Albanian and Muslim town of Tetovo this year. Pray for their need to find a suitable facility to rent, and to have favour with the population and local government.
· For a Caleb project as two teams begin 1 month+ of ethnographic research of the Albanian population in Macedonia. Pray for project success and for the church planting manual and a prayer booklet that follows. Pray for open hearts and doors toward seeing this people reached for the Lord.
· For great fruits from the 2-day Macedonian Watchman Prayer Assembly in May. About 45 people from 9 countries prayed, worshiped and prayer-walked for the kingdom of God to come to the 3 ethnic communities (Albanian, Macedonian and Roma) of Macedonia and the Balkans.
· Into the vision of opening a 24-hour house of prayer in Skopje. Recently, so many churches and so many people of all "walks" did this for 10 days and they tasted the fruits of what could be. Intercede that this vision becomes reality.
· As such fruits inspired churches to reach out to the disadvantaged and disabled. Mayors were asked how the church can help them. Donated wheel chairs from other nations were offered to the three ethnic communities. Pray they see Jesus in this.
· God's blessings from the Ohrid, Macedonia YWAM annual summer camp called Challenge for Change to continue to bear much fruit-not only in the DTS students which staffed it, but those to whom the team shared the gospel.
· For the YWAM DTS right now in Albania. Pray "that we have an effective time of ministry in Albania and the rest of the needed finances to come in."
· For YWAM Co-Leader Natasha-for God's hand on her pregnancy and the baby to go to full term; with natural delivery, quick and with no complications.
Montenegro: Please pray
· For the summer evangelism in Ulcinj to continue to go well. Financially-strapped local missionaries are paid to play music for the tourists out of a local bar-even worship songs unhindered by the Muslim owner. Afterwards many guests linger to talk with them about God till late in the morning. Pray for a great harvest of souls!
· For pastors working to establish an evangelical alliance among the 3-4 evangelical fellowships and a small number of house fellowships in Montenegro. Pray for the Holy Spirit to guide them.
· For this corrected (our apologies) June prayer point: Please pray for tourism in Montenegro from all over the Serbian speaking world, but also from the Albanians of Kosovo and Macedonia.
Serbia: Please pray
· That the 5-fold ministry gifts (Ephesians 4:11-12) "would be recognized along with many other gifts among God's children. The Church in Serbia needs to operate and walk in those gifts!"
· Thanking God that during one prayer campaign, He opened the doors of heaven and rose up intercessors, leaders and evangelists to be positioned on their places. Please pray especially that leaders see and seize the opportunity to make steps for change.
· "That this new sound above our country won't stop and declare that it will bring forth the roar of the Lion of Juda for Serbia!"
· "Into events here during this busy summer! Pray especially for the many camps to be held in Vrdnik, Aleksinac, Leskovac, Ada, Opovo, Subotica, Novi Sad, Backa Topola-children, teens and youth; retreats for couples, women, father-sons etc."
· For the Lord to make divine alignments with foreign-missions in this crucial time and that faithful and devoted servants would come to help us to build-up what the Lord has for the Body of Christ in Serbia.
· For great fruit to come from the 30 June-6 July outreach in Jagodina, organized by churches there. A group from England held concerts, an open service, children's ministry and shared the gospel.
· For the manifestation of Jesus during this event to endure and multiply in Jagodina and to the events now scheduled for Jagodina, Chuprija, Parachin, Strizilo and Kragujevac.
· Into the belief from Christians sending this report, that "heaven is opened up over Serbia, and we just need to continue in faith and prayers to move on, and take actions, as the Lord opens the doors."
BALTIC NATIONS
Estonia:
Please pray for Ellel Ministries Eastern Europe that ends on July 15th that much be caught as the students review their notes and recall the teaching, demonstrations and practice they received. May this be the start of great things to come for Estonia.
Lithuania: Please pray
· For God's presence and blessing on Christian camps and language schools being held this northern summer. Pray many would come to know him or deepen in their love of him and desire to serve him.
· For the Jazz Festival (July 13-15) and Sea Festival (July 27-29) in Klaipeda. Pray that God would speak through these secular events.
· For continuing growth in unity amongst all Christian churches and organizations in Lithuania.
· Praising God! We asked you to pray for provision for Christian ministers and other workers. At least anecdotally and God has been providing! Please continue to pray for his physical and spiritual provision and enabling for all serving him here.
· For the young people deciding to live together, rather than stay with their parents, or marry. Pray they would come to know God and choose his ways. Pray for clear Christian teaching within churches and for people to understand and obey God's word and will.
CENTRAL NATIONS
Czech Republic: Please pray
· For the many English camps going on in the Czech Republic during this month and next month. It's an opportunity to talk to 100's of kids more in depth about Christ.
· For workers - "This year we don't have a team, but I know about 5 others that do have teams coming."
· For revival in the church in the Czech Republic
Hungary: Please pray
· For the city of Szeged that on June 20-24 hosted a "Witches Festival". We are told that Szeged is the center of witchcraft in Hungary and has a long history of witches and witchcraft. An island on the river Tisa is called "Witches Island".
· Joining the prayer team and Christian believers in Szeged who are praying for GOD to break through the darkness and shine HIS TRUE light into the hearts of those who attended this event. Pray God's truth will fill the empty places of their hearts.
· For Ellel Ministry Eastern Europe's base near Budapest as they prepare for "the overwhelming number of Romanians" coming for a week of teaching and relaxation, either Aug. 13-18 or 20-25. Please pray for all the preparations for these schools.
· For the 16-21 July Agape children's camp and the 23-29 July Agape youth camp.
· For the 20-21 July: Life in the Holy Spirit teaching weekend at the Ellel East Center.
· For the 20 July-5 August Barnabas Missions Camp. This 12th this camp will have 100-120 participants over 17 years of age-50 Hungarians and many from Eastern Europe. After the camp, delegates will go for 10 days on missions in other nations.
· For the open-air concert "Gospel Nights" with the Continental Singers on 20 July in the town of Jaszbereny. Pray crowds come from the whole region for God's touch.
· For the 21 July "Worship Night" with Reuben Morgan in the town of Velence.
· For the 25-30 July Autonomous Church children's camp that God touch many lives.
· For the 28 July - 3 August Christeens Camp for teenagers at Kadakut that God's touch will transform many lives.
· For the 24 July-5 August Secular Arts Festival in the village of Kapocs. The Autonomous Church will present itself there with a new Christian drama.
· For the 4 August The Christian Family teaching day at the Ellel East Center-Hungarian teachers.
· For the 13-17 August School of the Word in Graz, Austria. Alan Vincent will teach on the Church-what it is and what it isn't, the relationship between the Church and the Kingdom, how is it governed and the ministries function.
· For the 13-17 August Perfect Comfort in God, a week of holidays with Otto and Sharon Bixler of Ellel Ministries Eastern Europe.
Poland: Please pray
· For more evangelical missionaries in Poland (Luke 10:2b). "We probably have the lowest number of evangelical missionaries of any country in the world," said the general secretary of the Polish Evangelical Alliance-only about 40,000 evangelicals and 180 evangelical missionaries in Poland out of a population over 40 million.
Romania: Please pray
· For Christian TV Alpha and Omega (the only one in Romania) and their websites as they seek for excellence in their programming. Pray for God to open many doors.
· For the Church to support Christian media ministries-written and the airwaves both in prayer and financially. Pray that these tools for spreading the Gospel would penetrate more and more homes so that people would be exposed to the Word of God.
· For the Ellel camp for young people, so many interested to live a victorious life in Christ. Teaching will be accompanied with creativity (i.e. drama, sports, games, etc).
· For Part II Ellel's teacher-training on July 27-28. Pray that the student teachers be equipped and gain vision to continue work in Romania, and that it be self-sustaining.
· Into the problem of Romanian intellectuals going west for a better life. Some say it "will become a country of elderly and orphans". Speak words of life into that situation! That will not happen - Romania will stand for Christ and prosper!
· Continuing for revival of the Church in Romania - for God to revive spirits of believers and fill them with faith, strength and fear of the Lord. Pray against passivity, false spirituality and compromise and for return to their first love!
· That we would receive the transformation and change in the Church as the Holy Spirit molds character, priorities, choices and mentality, both personally and in ministry. "The Lord is calling us to radically live for Him."
· For the young generation-protection for them, during vacation, camps or Christian conferences this summer season. Pray that the Lord would set them on fire for Him.
· For decisive shifts in the leadership structure of Romania that will eliminate compromise and corruption that now blocks the functional mechanism of the nation.
· For right relationships between Parliament, government and the Presidency-that they would act in fear of the Lord. Pray for political stability and that every scheme of the enemy to bring confusion over the land would be destroyed.
· For wisdom and integrity for the leaders of Romania, that they would make alliances according to God's will and for relationships with the USA, EU, Russia and our neighbors "would put us in the right position as a nation".
· For the future constitution (Pact) of the EU, that Romania would have the boldness to firmly pronounce against those laws that break the Christian norms of life.
· For the peace of Romania and protection against epidemics and natural disasters.
Slovakia: Please pray
· For the fourth week of Ellel's Counseling School coming up July 22 -26. Please pray for the students that they will be able to return, and that God would minister to them.
· For anointing by the Holy Spirit over the teachers, interpreter, ministry team and the students that God's message will come forth with fire and transform student lives.
Slovenia: Please pray
· For multiple camps this summer, especially youth and children, in Slovenia. Pray for whole youth groups to be raised up, and for conversions that result in baptisms.
· For "Trubar 2008", the 500th anniversary of the birth of Slovenia's protestant reformer. Pray for wisdom as specific people now plan and prepare. Pray as they pursue major donors for some huge projects that would impact the whole nation.
· For the church in Kranj, as one ministry pursues buying the location. Pray for favor and provision from the Lord for a church location in this important city.
· For a blessed and successful Calvary Chapel Celje (CCC) English Camp 2007! "Two weeks before Camp we were told we had to find an alternate facility - and God gave us a BETTER one, an entire house with perfect classroom space, assembly room, and a huge yard."
· As "good soil" (i.e. parable of the sower) manifests in these camps. Themes, such as English, are an excellent way to reach those who have never heard, but empower also those that will carry the torch for Jesus in the future (i.e. as per CCC camp report).
· For God's sustaining power and faithfulness in the midst of physical tiredness, weariness, and spiritual warfare and in the end for blessing and encouraging all those who took part in such a demanding outreach-for all Christian camps this summer.
· For God to water the seeds of truth planted in the hearts of youth attending the CCC camp-and other camps this summer. For effective and fruitful follow-up activities, and for His leading in timing in starting a Bible Study or house-group back home.
· For the countless other students across Slovenia who were awakened to the power of God's Word - that they might hunger to seek and find. For the students with doubts and questions - that Jesus might reveal Himself to them.
· For the city of Velenje, where a majority of the students came from - for God to show us how to reach out to that city and in which capacity.
RUSSIAN LANGUAGE NATIONS
Please pray as restrictions on evangelical church ministry continue to tighten across the CIS, some congregations who conduct SGA-sponsored Orphans Reborn ministries are facing increased difficulties on the local level. Ask God to turn hearts of those opposed to the Gospel, and make a way for the children to hear of Christ's love for them.
Belarus: Please pray
· For 19 Catholics and Protestants detained by Belarusian police because they were petitioning to change the harsh Religion Law. The arrests happened after signatures were collected at a prominent Catholic pilgrimage site, Budslav, and in the capital Minsk.
· For evangelical believers in Belarus, as they continue to encounter significant opposition.
Russia: Please pray
· For God's wisdom regarding attempts to build the church through theological seminaries: "in spite of the graduation of hundreds of students with degrees in theology and ministry, many churches prefer to ordain uneducated laymen because they are more "like them. Unlike seminary graduates, such ministers do not ask for financial support because they hold a job."
· For the "Salvation in Jesus" congregation located in Chita, Siberia that manages 3 substance abuse rehabilitation centers and 2 prison ministry shelters and bring much fruit into the Kingdom. Arsonists have destroyed 2 buildings and attempted a third.
· As news the Russian government is establishing a new agency for media and Internet oversight. Pray that the churches' freedom to proclaim the Gospel and to fully use the Internet will be protected despite potential new restrictions.
Far East Russia: Please pray
For the Altai region, "an area that is very spiritually dark and oppressed."
First, Protestant interns from Moscow came for outreach. Also, intercessors prayed and offenders in the rape of two girls ages 8 & 9 were found - God was in town!
"Now, fortune tellers have put pressure on Islamic, Shamanistic and Orthodox authorities to bring pressure against the Protestant Church." They started fighting against us and putting all kinds of "dirt" in the media against the church.
All Institutes were given an order not to collaborate with churches. There is propaganda everywhere in schools, village meetings, etc against the church. One church was kicked out from a rental building by the government. Another church which had about 100 members, many of them students, now only has 2 families left." Please pray for:
· God's protection over believers and ministers
· Wisdom for churches and boldness to stand against this pressure.
· Unity between churches and believers. (This is improving!)
· Good relationship between the church and the government
· Revival in the Altai region
Ukraine: Please pray
· For Good Shepherd Shelter Makeevka, Ukraine - "that God may show us right direction in reaching people and serving their needs, that every pressure and traps from the devil may be taken away, that the pastors and the leaders maybe under strong God's anointing and hear clearly the Voice of God."
· God's provision for their work in the Carpathian Mountains as they work with needy, lonely and abandoned, esp. children. Pray for financial support, laborers for the kingdom of God and "land where we can build a center in order to help that region."
· God's purpose, provision and direction for camps all across Ukraine that even the poorest can attend. Pray for an outpouring of His Spirit on each camp and an atmosphere of love and joy where kids form relationships with each other and staff.
· For anointing on the preaching and teaching with repentance, cleansing and God pouring fresh fire into personal lives and into each church involved. Pray for salvations (spirit & soul) and for new hope.
· For the political situation - peaceful solutions and wisdom to the president. The 30 September special election could become a major factor in the future of missionary activity in Ukraine. "Political doors are increasing factors that call us to plant and harvest while it is day."
· For God's provision in support of a Chinese pastor that recently came to Kiev and then lost his financial support. Since arriving, more than 40 Chinese have been saved and many of them baptized.
· For 2 Christians as they share the Gospel with friends and family in their homelands - probably closed nations. One member is a leader in a subterranean group. Pray for their safe return to Kiev, and for safety and success in their homelands.
· For those with skin color other than white. "White supremacy" is rampant and Internationals suffer intimidation, verbally and physically with attacks, robberies, beatings and even sometimes death.
· Against corruption that penetrates every strata of society-especially in Kiev. Righteousness, honor, and integrity, is rare, particularly among the law enforcement agencies and the political circles.
· That God will convict and bring to justice all practicing such evil. Pray that God's people will take a stand and declare that righteousness and justice must be the standard of life.
· For ministry to the Jews-open doors and God's anointed compassion to flow in love.
· For orphanages, many filled with mentally and physically handicapped children who have essentially been abandoned by family. Pray for financial provision to flow for enabling many of these children to attend Christian camps this summer.
· To the Lord of the Harvest for workers (Luke 10:2b). Many volunteers are needed for kingdom work all over Ukraine. "The harvest is truly a "bumper crop", and we need workers to help bring it in. We need people."
· For Bridges of Peace Foundation that has sent short term teams to Crimea, Ukraine in outreach to children. Pray God's creativity and wisdom over this team as they explore how they can help the River of Joyproject already in place.
· For good homes for the aged in Ukraine. "It is another URGENT Crimean ministry need."
· For abandoned children - so many-especially for a family that has taken in 12 of them. Their neighbors are livid, even Christians criticize a pastor for helping them. But praise God, "guardianship rights on the children are being settled in their favor".
· For another blessing! A governing official that viewed this situation and played with the children offered to give property now vacant for a new children's camp.
· For the "Bum-zhe" or invisible people that have no ID documents and live on the streets. Bureaucratic tangles make it almost impossible to get one. That makes social services, medical aid and housing impossible for them to get. Without papers, they are invisible, nonentities in the eyes of the state.
· For Dr. Tatiana as she takes on this cause with considerable success. Several of her handicap cases are being heard. For example, Nikolai who lost his hands and feet to frostbite and living in a ruin, got a location ID and can now get a pension and place to live.
SILK ROAD NATIONS
Afghanistan:
Please pray for Christian converts from Islam in Afghanistan who have been rejected.
Armenia:
Please pray for the home-to-home distribution in Nagorno Karabakh where EHC is working in conjunction with a local church that has a vision to share the Gospel, not only in their area, but also in surrounding nations. Pray that this effort would bear much fruit and other churches would want to join the effort.
Azerbaijan: Please pray
· For an imprisoned Baptist pastor that has been transferred to the prison infirmary because of serious heart problems and health affected by heat and poor prison conditions. His wife has traveled several times to see him and take him food. Ask God to heal his heart condition and for financial needs of the family.
· For a Baptist pastor who was detained by police during a worship service and now could face three years in prison for "resisting government representatives." Pray for his quick release and the prison sentence be overturned.
· For God to strengthen and encourage two journalists jailed for comparing Christian and Islamic values in a newspaper article. Thanking Him for their integrity and courage, ask that their prison sentence be overturned and that freedom of religious expression be allowed in the press.
· For an end to the hostility Christians regularly face from authorities.
Kazakhstan: Please pray
· Regarding a new bill already drafted and presented for consideration, that if passed would greatly limit religious freedom. The Prime Minister has not yet signed and presented it to Parliament. Pray as believers present their concerns to Parliament.
· Specifically for "AROK" the pastor's association that has a voice with government. Pray they have an opportunity to participate in the deliberation process and the government will consider their concerns and those of other religious organizations.
· Continuing for an end to governmental hostility toward non-traditional denominations (i.e. Baptists) they call a "sect". Recent documents illustrate "how to avoid getting trapped in 'sects'. Pray for freedom to worship God without government pressure.
Kyrgyzstan: Please pray
· For a pastor living in a city bordering China. Gifts from England (i.e. pens, notebooks, crayons) that he gives children have produced life. There are more than 1000 Muslims with children that hear him preach 3 times a day and the church was full of people on Sunday. Praise God they are so hungry!!!
· For a Christian group of singers from America as they minister in the city and region. "So, please pray if RUACH HAKODESH will remind about this requests, because this is my people is a Muslim people, that Yeshua send real revival and salvation and repenting."
· For "protection from any kind of Islamist group like Hisbutahrir, and Al-Qaeda, so Yeshua cover and send angels to my family parent and my brothers family - Because each time when revival also coming persecution, so that Yeshua protect each believers there and send mercy and protection, salvation to my people Kyrgyzstan."
· "For my family, daughter T. T., for her growing in His knowledge and love. She is now 8 month, and for my husband H., that we are hearing His voice and growing in His love and knowledge, that Yeshua use us for His glory."
· For stability in the government and a positive attitude towards Protestants. A key figure in government reports an agenda to limit religious freedom in the country.
· For a group of people involved in government who are working to establish a base of justice and plan for the country to move forward economically without corruption.
· Continuing for believers, especially in the south, who are experiencing great persecution from their communities. However, in spite of this, there are reports of God doing miracles and many people coming to faith!
· For the work of Christians tackling poverty in Kyrgyzstan.
Tajikistan: Please pray
· Over the latest draft of the Religion Law which may be interpreted to ban all unregistered religious activity including sharing one's faith. Religious education in private houses is forbidden and kids under-seven none at all. Youth could not join religious organizations.
· Regarding conditions for legal status. Registration requirements include an absurd number of signatures from members to apply. This number exceeds the size of any existing church in Tajikistan. All would need to re-register, then fail and be closed.
Turkey: Please pray
· Continuing for the families and loved ones of the three men martyred in April. Pray God heal their hearts and meet their needs. Some Christians have been targeted in media coverage - pray for their protection and God's provision for them.
· That Muslims in Turkey will be drawn to ask why these three men were willing to die, and through their testimonies will be drawn to faith in Christ. Psalm 68:5.
· Regarding parliamentary elections on 22 July, pivotal for Turkey's future because it could have a crucial impact on the presidential election this fall. "There is deal-making and much is at stake. Both elections will strongly influence the chances of greater freedom of thought, conscience and belief.
· Especially concerning media coverage of the elections. In one commentary: "No political party with any chance of gaining real power wants either to tackle the dangerous media intolerance of religious minorities or to take the dramatic changes necessary to usher in genuine religious freedom."
· For a result that will help the truth of the Gospel to spread in Turkey.
Turkmenistan:
· For a Baptist man who was recently sentenced to three years in a labour camp as a result of "illegally crossing a border" for Christian activities. Pray for his perseverance, that his time in detention be useful and he be granted early release.
· For his family. The camp is 750 miles from his home and while in-transit, armed guards with machine guns denied the family the opportunity to see him.
· For Wendy Lucas, a US citizen whose husband has been denied permission to leave Turkmenistan since January. The Turkmen Ambassador to the US has not cooperated, though the exit-ban has kept him from yet seeing his first-born daughter, born in May.
· Also for Yevgeny Potolov, head of a Council of churches Baptist congregation in Turkmenbashi, detained by police on 19 May. Police refused to tell his wife why he was being held in a detention center. Apparently, secret police are handling the case.
· That improvement in religious freedom becomes evident under their new leader and for Christians to be free from persecution and allowed to be involved in bringing transformation to this troubled nation.
Uzbekistan: Please pray
· For imprisoned Pentecostal pastor, Dmitry Shestakov that has now been transferred from an "open-camp" to a harsher labor camp in Navoi where he has lost over 33 pounds. Former prisoners say Camp #29 is unsanitary and has dangerous living and working conditions. Many are sick. Guards beat them with truncheons and members of criminal gangs have a ruthless hold over other prisoners.
· That he will stand strong in the face of interrogations and hard conditions. Good news is that God is doing miracles and protecting him. An "extremely harsh" prison official was removed from office the day Dimitri was transferred. The new man is much more lenient. One day Dimitri was called in for interrogation and he was expected to be horribly physically abused but no one laid a hand on him.
· For Pastor Dimitri's wife-demonstrating unbelievable strength in this situation. Pray for God to continue to minister to her and the children.
· For his congregation. The assistant pastor continues to lead the church. Pray for supernatural strength for this congregation to continue to stand strong. Authorities claim Pastor Dmitry misbehaved but Christians say it was a setup while administrative trials are being prepared against church members.
· For 2 members of a Pentecostal Church, who spent ten days in prison in June after being found guilty of violating laws on religion and "illegal" religious teaching. Pray their bold stand for the Lord Jesus Christ be rewarded and bring much fruit.
· For a Baptist woman held four days in June after officials discovered Christian books and tapes in her bag during a late-night bus inspection as she returned to her village. She now faces criminal prosecution for violating the laws on religion with three years imprisonment if convicted.
· For Z., threatened by local Muslims not to go to church. After ignoring the threats he was beaten up. His mother took his name off the deed to the family property. He was told to leave his home and region by 1 July.
· Regarding news of government plans to further restrict religious activity. Pray that the government will be convicted of those polices which are unjust and that this will mark the beginning of a period of greater freedom for Christians in the nation.
· For God's loving care over the Church of Uzbekistan and Christians to not be discouraged. In the natural pressure against Christians is getting worse. Virtually all foreign workers have been forced to leave the country.
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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 compile 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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