Tearfund's work in East and Central Africa covers Burundi, Central African Republic (CAR), Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, Rwanda and South Sudan. Many people in these countries face conflict and violence. This week, let's cry out to God for this war-torn region and pray for peace to flood the land.
Sunday 19 October
Let us start this week of prayer with John 14:27: 'Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.' Lord, as we read about the conflict and suffering, let us remember that you are sovereign over all. Amen.
Monday 20 October
As conflict swept through the city of Goma, DRC, in February this year, more than 100 women and children were raped and burnt alive as the women's wing of a prison was set on fire. Lord, these stories are horrific to hear. We pray protection over women and girls, as rape is so often used as a weapon of war. Amen.
Tuesday 21 October
'Our research shows that to reduce sexual violence in conflict, we have to start by addressing behaviour in people's homes and communities,' says Poppy Anguandia, Tearfund's Country Director in the DRC. Today, pray for Tearfund's Transforming Masculinities work, which seeks to prevent sexual and gender-based violence by shifting harmful ideas and practices.
Wednesday 22 October
Renewed violence has led to neighbouring Burundi hosting more than 65,000 refugees from the DRC. 'Tearfund is providing emergency relief for 714 Congolese refugees living in camps,' explains Desire Majambere, Tearfund's Country Director for Burundi. Pray for churches across Burundi who are leading the way and practising hospitality.
Thursday 23 October
Today, let us pray for CAR. Nearly 600,000 people have been internally displaced as a result of the ongoing violence, and 700,000 have fled to neighbouring countries. This has left CAR in turmoil. In 2021, it was estimated that 2.8 million people living in the country are in need of humanitarian aid.
Friday 24 October
Adama is 50. She lives with her three young grandchildren. 'I lost my husband during the crisis [the conflict in CAR]. We ran away from a violent attack. I learnt later that he was shot by the rebel groups.' Adama and her family walked 155 miles to escape the violence. Pray for protection over the people in CAR who live in areas of conflict.
Saturday 25 October
'Thanks to Tearfund [with funding from the World Food Programme], we now get food regularly,' says Adama. 'Life is a bit better, and the children have something to eat.' Lord, we pray for hope, comfort and practical resources for Adama and her grandchildren as they rebuild their lives. Amen.
