Poverty in the Central African Republic (CAR) is a significant issue, with many families struggling to find a stable income. This Easter week, pray for people in CAR who are being inspired by their faith to undertake training to overcome the challenges they face.
Easter Sunday 5 April
Davilla, who supports her parents and brother, is learning to read, write, count and tailor at a Tearfund training centre. ‘God’s word, that’s preached at church, and the advice given really strengthens me, helping me forget my troubles and renew my hope,’ she says. On this Easter Sunday, pray for family caregivers facing limited resources, thanking God for the hope and strength faith provides. Amen.
Easter Monday 6 April
‘My husband is bright and went to school, but he’s not motivated to do better,’ says Davilla. We pray for men who are struggling to find work and a sense of purpose. As we reflect on the new life of Easter, open doors for them to find fulfilling jobs so they can provide for their families. Amen.
Tuesday 7 April
‘I wanted to go to school and do well, but sadly, when I was a child, I lived with my elder brother’s wife, who treated me badly... I am who I am today because of that,’ says Davilla. Lord, as we contemplate the healing power of the resurrection, we pray for all who have experienced difficult childhoods. Heal their past hurts. Amen.
Wednesday 8 April
‘He told me I had to stay at home for our relationship to work... he started abusing me, physically and mentally,’ says Arielle, who sells fish and is learning tailoring to provide for her family, without the support of her ex-partner, the father of their child. As Christ conquered darkness, we pray for women trapped in abusive relationships. Give them the courage to seek help and the strength to leave. Amen.
Thursday 9 April
‘My new partner is also a pastor’s child. We have a good relationship, but he’s still a university student. So all the household expenses are on me,’ says Arielle. Lord, as we celebrate new life this Easter, we pray for women who are the sole providers for their families. Bless their work and give them the resilience to continue. Amen.
Friday 10 April
‘I’ve wasted my time. I feel sad sometimes, but I pray and trust in God,’ says Julia. Lord God, we pray for all those who feel they have wasted time or made mistakes. Remind them that in you, there is always hope for a new beginning. Help them to see the future with fresh eyes and to use the knowledge and experiences they have to help others, trusting in your transformative power. Amen.
Saturday 11 April
‘Without peace, all the efforts we make will be in vain. So, pray for the final return of peace in CAR,’ says Esther. Lord, as we remember Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice, we join our prayers for peace in the Central African Republic. End the violence and instability, and guide the country’s leadership to govern with wisdom and integrity, bringing forth a new era of peace and reconciliation. Amen.
