Life in the Central African Republic (CAR) has been dangerous for more than ten years. A civil war engulfing much of the country began in 2013, with violence along both ethnic and religious lines. Christians are often caught in the middle: if they speak out against the atrocities committed by any of the warring factions, believers can be targeted, churches burned and entire communities displaced. Some of the armed groups also target Christians, so followers of Christ are caught up in conflict simply because of their faith.
Additionally, converts from Islam can face persecution from family members and the surrounding community. New believers can be ostracised, and violence has been used to pressure Christians to recant their faith.
Rights violations against Christians are most severe in the country's northern and eastern parts, which are dominated by extremists, and where armed Islamist militant groups operate. Additionally, converts from Islam face pressure from their families and the community.
I ask the Church to pray for me so that I may find peace of heart. And that my faith be strengthened.
Pauline, a mother in CAR who lost two children to a bomb blast.
CAR has been a violent place for a decade, and this year the country rose one spot in the rankings. The conflict between various armed groups continued, and even more warring parties have sprung up. This has led to greater instability and violence. Christians remain caught in the middle (and sometimes targeted), making CAR a highly dangerous and violent place for followers of Jesus.
Open Doors works through local partners to support believers in the Central African Republic with persecution survival training, economic empowerment projects and trauma care.
Father, we lift up to You Christians in CAR who risk everything to follow You. We ask You to heal the brokenhearted, and to bind up the wounded. Where there is trauma, we ask that You would make Your presence known as You walk alongside Your children. All this we ask in Jesus' name, Amen.
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