INTRODUCTION Welcome to the 2021 Edition of the 30 Days of Prayer for the Muslim World
This year, the prayer focus for the 30 Days of Prayer for the The goal of this year’s guide is to give you a glimpse into the lives Muslim World looks at yet another way of exploring the Muslim of Muslims living in urban centres all over the world, so that you world – by cities. can pray for them more effectively as they fast and pray over the next 30 days. It will also help you to pray for Christian workers Many missions organisations with a focus on Muslims have in cities, that their efforts among Muslims will be fruitful. Some been directing their discipleship and evangelism efforts towards cities have many churches and Christian groups serving in them, the populations in cities. In nations with a Muslim majority the others have few or none, but all need prayer. This guide will help strategies for reaching people in cities can be very different than you see how God is working among Muslims in cities and join in rural areas. In nations with more diverse populations, cities Him through your prayers. offer opportunities to reach Muslims, both native and immigrant, in new ways with the gospel. Whether a city is large or small, with Thank you for praying, a minority or a majority Muslim population, it is strategic for the The Editors Church to be active there. 30 Days of Prayer for the Muslim World and World Prayer Guides
Cities are influential centres for culture, arts, and economic A note about the population numbers: the Muslim populations development. Muslims in cities often have social networks that listed in each city are the most accurate we could find documented reach far and wide, to places the gospel has not yet been, and and are based on the city proper or the metro area, whichever is where it is hard to go. Focusing ministry resources on urban most relevant to the article. centres helps more people to be reached, and so focusing our prayers on Muslims in urban centres during this Ramadan will All names in articles have been changed for privacy. also be a valuable effort.
1 INTRODUCTION Frequently asked questions about 30 Days of Prayer for the Muslim World
How did 30 Days get started? Who writes the articles and produces How do you decide who to pray for? A group of mission leaders were praying the guide? Each year, we seek inspiration for a at a meeting in the Middle East in The team that produces 30 Days is a theme for the guide, which helps keep 1992. They were convicted about their diverse group of Christians from all the articles connected and focused and attitude toward the Muslim world and over the world. Most of them have lived introduces our regular readers to new they committed to be more proactive among, worked with, and loved Muslim information about Muslims. 30 Days at demonstrating God’s love for Muslim people for many years. Some contribute receives submissions from all over the people. The 30 Days prayer guide for articles, others volunteer each year to world, so our selection is partly based on Muslims during Ramadan was one way translate, design or distribute the guide. what is submitted, but we also request they responded, to mobilise Christians to 30 Days International has recently contributions to represent a wide variety learn about and engage with Muslims in partnered with a new ministry called of cultures and beliefs. their communities and in the world. World Prayer Guides, to enable us to continue producing 30 Day of Prayer for We produce a writing guide each year for How many people participate in 30 the Muslim World more efficiently and anyone who is interested in mobilising Days of Prayer? to mobilise prayer for other groups and prayer for a particular need – contact us 30 Days is translated into about 30 issues. if you’d like to write for 30 Days at: languages and distributed in 40 nations. [email protected] Each day during Ramadan, we know that Visit World Prayer Guides at: hundreds of thousands of believers are www.worldprayerguides.org to find other joining in prayer, making it one of the prayer guides that might interest you. largest prayer events in the world.
2 INTRODUCTION How should we pray?
30 Days was created by a group of Jesus commands us to love everyone – judge, fear, hate, or relate to Muslims in people who are committed to sharing the even those who hurt us - and to pray for any way that is counter to the Kingdom love of Christ with Muslims. We believe them (Matthew 5:44). Paul showed honor of God. We are simply to love (as 1 that Jesus is the Savior of the world to the people he shared the gospel with Corinthians 13 exhorts), manifest the and the only way to reconciliation with by presenting it in a way they could relate fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), pray God (John 14:6; Acts 4:12; 2 Corinthians to and living in a way they could accept. for Muslims, and trust God by His Holy 5:18-19). However, we also believe that (1 Corinthians 9:20-22). There are many Spirit to bring them to Himself in Christ every human being is made in the image Scriptures that exhort us to follow Jesus’ (John 6:44, 12:32, 16:8). of God (Imago Dei) according to Genesis example of humility and self-sacrificial 1:26-28, and thus has inestimable worth and pure love for everyone (Philippians May your prayers be led by the love of and dignity. 2:1-11). That is part of what it means Christ, and the inspiration of the Holy to, “pick up our cross and follow Him” Spirit, as you participate in this year’s 30 We believe that God loves Muslims, as (Matthew 16:24). Days of Prayer for the Muslim World. He does every human (John 3:16) and does not want any to perish (1 Timothy Our intercession for Muslims needs to 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9). As followers of Christ, be motivated by love. Our model is Jesus we take Jesus’ strong exhortation to – who, while we were yet sinners, loved “love God and love neighbor” (Matthew us and died for us (Romans 5:8). As we 22:37-39) very seriously. Muslims are our receive God’s love for us, He gives us His neighbors, and one way we love them love for all others and enables us to fulfill is by praying blessings on them, their the great commandment to love God and families, and communities. love our neighbour. We are not called to
3 Where are our prayers taking us?
1. Mecca, Saudi Arabia 11. Jakarta, Indonesia 21. Basel, Switzerland 2. Cairo, Egypt 12. Kampala, Uganda 22. Sydney, Australia 3. Birmingham, UK 13. Paris, France 23. Dhaka, Bangladesh 4. New York, USA 14. Yangon, Myanmar 24. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 5. N’Djaména, Chad 15. Samarkand, Uzbekistan 25. Sana’a, Yemen 6. Athens, Greece 16. Doha, Qatar 26. Hamburg, Germany 7. Kolkata, India 17. Toronto, Canada 27. Accra, Ghana 8. Houston, USA 18. Berlin, Germany 28. Banjarmasin, Indonesia 9. Multan, Pakistan 19. Karachi, Pakistan 29. Tripoli, Libya 10. Dhaka, Bangladesh 20. Nairobi, Kenya 30. Damascus, Syria
4 APRIL 13 - DAY 1 Mecca, Saudi Arabia Muslim Population: 2 040 000
We could not focus our prayers on Muslims known as the Hajj, which takes place this in cities without considering the most year between July 17 and 21. The Hajj is revered of Muslim cities, Mecca. Islam’s central to the economy of Mecca, with the founder, Muhammad, was born here majority of jobs in the city connected to and when Muslims pray, they bow in the serving the pilgrims and facilitating the direction of Mecca. Only Muslims are Hajj. permitted to enter the city, although a few non-Muslims have managed it. In 2020, the coronavirus caused the Hajj to How can we pray? be significantly downsized to help prevent The city of Mecca has a population of just the spread of the disease. This had a The residents of Mecca have no local access to the message of Christ. over 2 million and has no known believers, significant impact on local businesses and Pray for them to hear the gospel as you would expect. However, its residents, but also fueled ideas for more through media and other sources. (2 population is very diverse, as people from sustainable ways to manage this large, Thessalonians 3:1) all over the world travel here, particularly annual event. from South Asia, Southeast Asia, Europe, All Muslims who are physically and financially able are expected to make and Africa, to see the important and sacred the pilgrimage once in their lifetime. sites and many become residents of this Pray for the safety of those travelling ancient city. to Hajj this year. (Psalm 121:7-8)
And, of course, every year between 2 and If performed correctly, the pilgrimage is believed to excuse all previous sins. 4 million Muslim pilgrims arrive in Mecca Pray for Muslims in Mecca to follow the to take part in one of the world’s largest One who removes our sin, “as far as annual gatherings - the religious ritual the east is from the west.” (Psalm 103)
5 APRIL 14- DAY 2 Cairo, Egypt Muslim Population: 18 000 000
Cairo is one of the fastest growing cities in conditions. But many local hospitals will the world. With a population of around 20 not treat refugees fairly and they could not million, it is the largest city in Africa, and afford the inflated cost of a bone marrow about the 6th largest city on the planet. transplant. But Aisha’s family met a group 90% of the city is Muslim, mostly Sunni of Egyptian and foreign Christians who Muslim, and more Muslims arrive regularly had established a network of doctors as refugees from places like war-torn and clinics which offered treatment for Yemen. fair prices and managed donations to help those in need of care. Through this How can we pray? There are estimates of up to a million group, Aisha was finally able to receive her Yemeni people living in Cairo. They fled treatment. Pray that people of all faiths in their homes because of the war and are Cairo will work together to solve the now stranded in the city. Many also came Through practical, merciful help to those problems faced by rapid growth - such to receive medical treatment here. in need, some Christians in Cairo form as the supply of water, food, education friendships with the Yemeni community and housing - and help their city to prosper in peace. (Proverbs 11:11) “Why do you Christians help us foreigners?” and show them the love of God. is the question many Yemenis ask when Pray for the Yemenis stranded in they encounter Christians in Cairo. Cairo, for their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs to be met. Aisha was a ten-year old girl suffering (Matthew 25:34-40) from leukaemia. Unable to get treatment Pray for the Church in Cairo that, even in Yemen, her parents brought her to as a minority, they would be a bold Cairo, where they lived in uncertain and powerful witness. (Acts 1:8)
6 APRIL 15 - DAY 3 Birmingham, England Muslim Population: 301 000
Birmingham is the manufacturing heart of 10 hours every day, hoping the authorities England. After World War II, a severe labour won’t catch him. shortage in the city’s factories prompted the government to invite unskilled workers Soon after he arrived, Faisal learned about from South Asia. In 1966, around 50,000 Jesus from a city church that welcomes displaced rural farmers immigrated asylum seekers. He faithfully attends How can we pray? from Mirpur, Pakistan. The city’s Muslim Sunday services and a mid-week fellowship community has since expanded to make group. His Muslim housemates don’t know Pray that, like the church Faisal up around 25% of its population. They are about his new faith, so he hides his Bible attends, other churches in Birmingham a mixture of second and third generation and does not pray openly. He has lost all will intentionally welcome their Muslim neighbours. Bless those that are South Asians, as well as many migrants and contact with his family in Afghanistan and already reaching out. refugees from Africa, the Middle East and longs to find out if they are OK. However, (Psalm 119:132-133) Asia. his legal status prevents him from traveling. Pray that social barriers between Faisal is a young asylum seeker from communities in Birmingham will fall. Some areas have become ethnic and Afghanistan who travelled to Birmingham religious enclaves. (Matthew 5:14-15) two years ago. He runs a barber shop in one of the city’s most concentrated South Birmingham is a large city, with issues Asian areas. He is a hard worker, careful common to large cities. Pray that and attentive – his customers like him. drug trafficking, knife crime and gang violence will end. Some initiatives are Faisal does not have “leave-to-remain” in bearing fruit but there is still a long the UK, which means he cannot legally way to go. work. Despite this, he opens his shop for (Titus 2:11-14)
7 APRIL 16 - DAY 4 New York City, USA Muslim Population: 1 000 000
“How are you? How’s your family?” Abdul remembered in the USA. Since that event, warmly greets a customer buying a there have been efforts to strengthen sandwich. After exchanging greetings, the relations between the city and its Muslim African American Muslim customer drops population. Several Christian organisations change in two buckets next to the cash in the city have helped New York Christians register which are collecting funds for new form sincere friendships with Muslims. mosques in New York City and Yemen. “For With Muslims in New York City deeply How can we pray? the umma!” (the Muslim community) the connected to their home countries and the customer says. diaspora, God has provided new gateways Pray for Christian organisations and for spreading His Word to the ends of the churches in New York City, to be light and salt to the Muslim community. New York City is home to one of the most earth. (Matthew 5:13-16) diverse Muslim communities in the world. They are American, Arab, South Asian, Muslims in the city are burdened African, European, Central Asian, and even by urban living expenses and the Hispanic. Muslims have a visible presence responsibility to send money home to families abroad. Pray God gives in the city through workers (taxi drivers, them peace and wisdom, and that street vendors, and many small business He spreads His light through their owners are often Muslim), through influence. (Luke 12: 31-34) mosques (there are several hundred), and in parts of the city where dense immigrant Muslims in NYC often work over 60 hours a week. Pray for creative means populations reflect their home culture. of sharing the gospel and discipling, 20 years ago, New York City faced like social media efforts, to bear fruit. the 9/11 terror attack which is widely (John 15:4-8)
8 APRIL 17 - DAY 5 N’Djaména, Chad Muslim Population: 750 000
N’Djaména is the capital of Chad, one of the Masih and, for the first time in the history poorest countries in the world and it is the of the city, they are not alone: small groups only urban centre in the nation. Half of the are formed for reading the Bible together. population of 1.5 million are Muslim. Many Muslim parents send their children to Christian schools where they learn to know The people of Chad live between the and love Bible stories. ancient and the modern: cooking on an open three-stone hob, while next door a Recently, thousands of digital memory smartphone rings. If someone gets enough cards with the gospel message were money, he installs air conditioning in his distributed. One young man loaded music How can we pray? mud hut. Someone who had tended goats over the text on his card. But later, he had
30 years ago could become a minister the same dream three times in which he For the Muslims in N’Djaména: that of government today. Of course, such a heard the words: “Why have you wiped the they will find abundant life in Jesus. rapid social change is only reserved for a content from your card?” He went looking (John 10:9-11) few: most struggle to maintain a simple for the person who had given him the card For the children attending Christian livelihood for their family. and, as a result of his search, came to faith schools: that through the witness of in Jesus. their teachers and the Bible stories The big city offers more possibilities and they will come to follow Jesus. freedoms. Questions are asked here which (Matthew 19:13-14) do not come up in the traditional village: For Muslim background believers: “Why is my Christian neighbor such a ‘good that they will be faithful in following person’?” “Why can’t Islam change my Jesus and experience His protection. heart?” Individuals come to faith in Isa al- (Hebrews 10:23)
9 APRIL 18 - DAY 6 Athens, Greece Muslim Population: 300 000
Athens, Greece, the “cradle of western us who have chosen to follow Christ are civilization”, has long been a major also headed there and we are going to influencer of culture. It is famous for the share our faith.” Apostle Paul’s speech at Mars Hill where he said, “From one man He has made every On one occasion, an elderly Pakistani nationality to live over the whole earth and Muslim asked to be baptized after receiving has determined their appointed times and Christ as his Lord and Savior. Upon leaving the boundaries of where they live. He did the beach south of Athens, he saw a man How can we pray? this so they might seek God, and perhaps jogging down the street and said, “I feel like they might reach out and find Him, though a young boy again, like I could outrun that Pray for refugees in Athens who have He is not far from each one of us.” - Acts man. I am a new creation. I’m full of the suffered and lost much, for them to 17:26-27 joy of the Lord.” Other similar stories are rebuild their lives and find peace. happening in Athens, as more are being (Ephesians 2:17-21) In recent years, thousands of Muslims saved. have fled war-torn and poverty-stricken Pray for pastors, church planters and organisations who are working homelands for Athens. For possibly the among refugees, for their ministry to first time in their lives, they can now find be effective and for them to have the Christians from a Muslim background. resources to serve. (Mark 16:15-18) A church planter from Iraq said, “People in the West are afraid Europe is going to Pray for dreams and visions that will lead Muslims into conversations with become a Muslim continent. But those of followers of Christ. Pray that Muslims will reach out and find God, who is not far away.” (Psalm 139)
10 APRIL 19 - DAY 7 Kolkata, India Muslim Population: 927 000
Kolkata, the original capital of India, is accepted by the rest of the community. known for its rich culture, famous sweets, They long to live a normal life like everyone and beautiful art. It also has a powerful else. history in missions - William Carey, “the father of modern missions,” established his But in the midst of the fear and struggles, ministries there in the late 1700s. there are small gatherings of believers How can we pray? woven throughout those Muslim Muslims make up 20.6 percent of the communities. Muslims in Kolkata are slowly Muslims in Kolkata fear government 4.5 million people of Kolkata. Some are coming to faith in Christ. They are sharing changes that could lead to more native to Kolkata, but many of these the truth and salvation they have found in persecution. Pray that the local government would remain sympathetic Muslims come from nearby states or the Jesus with their family and friends. towards minorities, so that the Muslim neighbouring country of Bangladesh. community can live in peace. While they live in close communities, their (Psalm 112) expertise in business is an important part of daily life for everyone in the city. Pray that as the Muslim community seeks acceptance, they would find it in Christ and the fellowship of believers. During Ramadan, the streets overflow (Ephesians 4:1-3) with strong fragrances and excitement as people shop for new clothes and celebrate Pray that the believers in Kolkata all month long. In many ways, their vibrant would see the Muslim community through the eyes of Christ. May God culture is the heartbeat of the city, but give them a deep desire to see their the Muslim communities in Kolkata live in brothers and sisters come to know the fear. As a religious minority, they are not one true God. (Colossians 4:2-6)
11 APRIL 20 - DAY 8 Houston, USA Muslim Population: 80 000
There are over 3 000 churches in Houston, to study parallel stories from the Bible and and an estimated 80,000 Muslims reside the Qur’an together for six weeks. in that city. God has answered the prayers of the Church for Muslim people groups The church in Houston is being creative and to gain access to the gospel. Muslims from determined about reaching local Muslims. around the world now live down the street One missionary group delivered 2,671 from many American Christians! contextualized Gospels of Luke to Pakistani Muslims. This led to 14 Muslims choosing A few Christians in Houston understand to follow Jesus. A distinguished Muslim this opportunity and are befriending scholar walked into a Houston church to Muslims in their communities. A piano learn English. A church member befriended How can we pray? teacher welcomes Muslims into his class him, and they began to meet weekly. Today, with the hope of sharing his faith with his that Muslim scholar is a seminary student. Pray for Muslims in Houston, to be blessed and encouraged in friendship students and their parents. Young adults A young Pakistani man encountered Jesus with Christians. (Luke 10:25-37) move into apartment buildings that are in his dreams. He walked into a Houston predominantly Muslim occupied to have church requesting baptism. As Jesus said, Pray for Christian groups living more opportunities to get to know their “The harvest is plentiful…!” (Matthew 9:37) and working in Houston to pursue Muslim neighbours. Two Christian women and in Houston, it is ripe. authentic relationships with their Muslim neighbours and find ways to involved in their church’s English language bless them. (Proverbs 11:11) program made themselves available for Muslim English students to study the Bible Pray for many Muslims in Houston to outside of class. One organisation has experience the love of Christ through arranged for six Christians and six Muslims His followers and come to faith in Him. (1 Timothy 2:1-6)
12 APRIL 21 - DAY 9 Multan, Pakistan Muslim Population: 2 000 000
Suriya lives in Multan, the seventh largest of family and society. Her mother-in-law city in Pakistan. Most of the 2 million threatened to send her away and get a new inhabitants are Muslims. The city is in the wife for her son. Suriya was desperate. province of Punjab, known as “the land of the five streams” but Multan is known for Suriya learned about a clinic run by dust, extreme heat, beggars, and many Christians that treats infertile women. graves of Sufi saints. Every day many The staff there want to be a testimony of people make pilgrimages to Rukn-i-Alam, God’s love to their patients. Suriya had the most famous mausoleum in the city. a consultation and someone prayed for They hope that prayers for their needs will her. She returned home, comforted, and be answered there. hopeful. A few months later a miracle happened, and she discovered that she How can we pray? Like most women in Multan, Suriya belongs was pregnant! Will she remember Jesus, in to a conservative Muslim family. Although whose name she was prayed for, and open Pray for women like Suriya to living in a city means that many girls can her heart to Him? experience the love and acceptance of go to school, parents usually arrange for Jesus. (1 Corinthians 1:28-29) their daughters to be married at a very Pray for health clinics like this to young age. When Suriya got married her be light and salt in Multan and for husband’s family expected her to become Christians to find practical ways to pregnant as soon as possible and to bear bless their city. (Hebrew 13:16) him a child, preferably a son. But Suriya Pray for those who seek help at was childless. Like many other women in the graves of Sufi saints, to have a her situation, she suffered the contempt revelation of Christ and find the help they need. (Psalm 40:1) 13 APRIL 22 - DAY 10 Dhaka, Bangladesh Muslim Population: 19 000 000
Bengali Muslims are one of the largest practicing it. This conservative influence is unreached people groups on earth and the also seen on the streets as more and more majority of them live in Bangladesh. The women wear the burka in public. capital city, Dhaka, is home to an estimated 20 million people, which makes the city one On the other hand, through social media of the world’s fastest growing megacities. and the internet, Bengali Muslims see Almost 90% of the residents are Muslim. a free world outside of their city, with many options. Dhaka offers anonymity Young Muslims in Dhaka can be conflicted and subcultures to explore new ideas How can we pray? by the options their city offers. On one and lifestyles. Some Christians take this hand, the everyday life of Bengali Muslims opportunity to inform seekers about the Pray for Dhaka’s needs as a growing is influenced by increasingly conservative Christian faith and try to answer their megacity - it faces many challenges teaching in the mosques. In recent years, questions about Islam. with overcrowding, frequent flooding, and pollution. Pray for wise leadership these teachings have also influenced and good management. (Isaiah 26:1-3) traditional Bengali culture. For example, the Bengali “gaie holud” celebration which Pray for Muslims in Dhaka to have traditionally takes place a few days before opportunities to learn about what it a wedding ceremony: at this celebration, means to follow Christ. (Psalm 119:9-10) visitors color the bride and groom’s
faces yellow and feed them sweets. Pray for the physical and spiritual But according to the teaching in some protection of Christians who live in mosques, this celebration is labeled as, Dhaka and for them to be an effective “not Muslim,” and people have stopped witness of Jesus. (1 Timothy 4)
14 APRIL 23 - DAY 11 Jakarta, Indonesia Muslim Population: 8 016 000
Jarot is a university student in Jakarta. He meetings that they host on the campus. came to the capital city from a smaller town She met Jarot at one of these gatherings, to study engineering, but he has found it a where he was curious to learn about the challenge, being far away from his family Christian idea of repentance. Rachel prays and community. Like many Indonesians, he will want to learn more. Jarot grew up culturally Muslim, but was not particularly devout. He made friends Indonesia is a secular democracy and most with a group at university who were Indonesians support a pluralist society exploring a movement called “hijrah.” with Muslims, Hindus, Christians and Hijrah is an Arabic word for a journey, others living peaceably together. Some sometimes interpreted as repentance, and are concerned that a movement like hijrah How can we pray? the movement encourages people to adopt could threaten that peace. Islam is by far
a more religious lifestyle, following Islamic the dominant religion in Indonesia, in fact, Pray for freedom of religion and conduct and rituals carefully. The hijrah it has the largest Muslim population in the peaceful co-existence between movement has been endorsed by several world with 225 million Muslims. Jakarta has different faith communities in Jakarta. Indonesian celebrities and has become a slightly more diverse population, with (Romans 12:18) popular among young people who are 84% of the residents being Muslim and 11% One quarter of Jakarta’s population is looking for meaning and purpose. Christian. under the age of 25. Pray for young people looking for meaning and Rachel is part of the Christian minority in purpose to find it in Christ. Jakarta. Her church in Jakarta has friendly (2 Timothy 2:22) relationships with local mosques, and Pray for Christians in Jakarta, to be she sometimes takes part in inter-faith wise and diligent in sharing their faith. (Colossians 4:6) 15 APRIL 24 - DAY 12 Kampala, Uganda Muslim Population: 204 000
Faduma wanders with her basket through “Little Mogadishu”. Without schooling the morning crowds of the Somali quarter or vocational training, they have few in Kampala. Every day, she gets up before opportunities to improve their lives and sunrise to prepare anjero, the traditional are often feared or shunned by their host flatbread that Somalis eat for breakfast. country. By selling bread, she tries to provide for her three children. For five years she has A team of Ugandan Christians has begun been living in “Little Mogadishu,” a slum in to address the plight of Muslims in the Kampala. Most Somalis who fled the civil Somali part of the city. They want to help How can we pray? war in Somalia and came to Uganda, are young Somalis in particular, offering here. Faduma is a single mother. She has English lessons, computer courses, or Pray that many Ugandan Christians hardly any education, does not speak any football training. At the same time, they are will be a witness of God’s love to English, which is the official language in trying to build a bridge between Ugandan the Somali Muslims in their city. Uganda, and cannot find any work. Christians and Somalis, who are almost (Colossians 4:2-6) entirely Muslim. They encourage and train Pray that many Somalis who are mired An estimated 12 percent of Kampala’s 1.7 Christians to get involved with the people in the hopelessness of refugee life, million inhabitants are Muslims. Some in the Somali neighbourhoods, praying for encounter loving support and practical belong to native Muslim ethnic groups them and sharing the love of Jesus. help from Christians. (Psalm 40:9-10) or have come from the Arab world and established themselves as successful Pray that Somalis might have life- changing encounters with Jesus that businesspeople. In quite a different they can share with their networks part of the city live about 20 000 Somali back in Somalia. (2 Corinthians 9:11- refugees, who have mostly settled in 14)
16 APRIL 25 - DAY 13 Paris, France Muslim Population: 1 700 000
Paris has one of the largest Muslim Mahamadu’s life is typical for the more populations in Europe. It is a diverse than 100 000 Soninke immigrants in the community, largely consisting of greater Paris region, working in multiple immigrants from former French colonies in low-paid jobs to earn enough to support North and West Africa. their families back in West Africa. Most of them have never met a true follower of Mahamadu collapses onto his bed, Jesus or heard the Gospel. Nevertheless, exhausted. He’s finished his cleaning job there are a few believers who live in and has a few hours before his night shift isolation and experience persecution from as a security guard starts. But he cannot their community. How can we pray? relax, because it is a Sunday, the day the members of his extended family visit the Soninke Communities are found all over Pray that Soninke immigrants in Paris hostel where he lives with a hundred other the world, particularly in France. They will find the work they need to support Soninke immigrant workers. It is a day come from West Africa, where they have their families in West Africa. for discussing family problems in France been traders for generations. The Soninke (Mark 12:32-34) and deciding how much money they converted to Islam in the 11th century and Pray for all Muslims in Paris to need to send back to their home village nearly all of them are devout Muslims – encounter followers of Christ in this in Mali. Mahamandu’s daughter in Mali is proud of their 900 years of Islamic heritage. city and for more Christian workers to ill, so he is worried that he will not have come here. (Matthew 9:38) enough money for her as well as giving his contribution towards the food for the Pray for protection for the few believers, and that many other upcoming Eid festival. Soninke in Paris would come to know Christ. (John 14:6)
17 APRIL 26 - DAY 14 Yangon, Myanmar Muslim Population: 350 000
Tourists in Myanmar’s former capital, seen my mother in over 20 years. I miss Yangon, are often impressed with the her!” one Rohingya man recently told sight of golden Buddhist pagodas and a friend. Prejudice, discrimination, and thousands of monks in red robes. Few persecution, however, are not limited to visitors notice the many mosques which Rohingya, but extends to Muslims from stand witness to a long and rich history of other backgrounds as well. Muslims in Yangon. Today, officially 5% of Yangon’s population are Muslims, around There are no known believers among the 350,000. An estimated 10-20 % of them are Rohingya, and very few from other Muslim Rohingya from Rakhine State, but most groups in Yangon. There is very little are from Indian, Burmese, or even Chinese outreach to Muslims by either international ethnic backgrounds. workers or local believers. Some within the How can we pray? Burmese church have made comments like The situation of Muslims in Yangon Many Rohingya in Yangon today fled there “Jesus didn’t die for the Rohingya people!” seems hopeless, but we know that “The for safety. Many still have family members and negative feelings about Muslims are Lord is a shelter for the oppressed, a in Rakhine State, where a decades-old present among more than a few. refuge in times of trouble” (Psalm 9:9). conflict has led to the loss of basic rights and widespread violence for many. Other Pray that Muslims who are longing for true peace and reconciliation would Rohingya in Yangon have their family encounter the truth and beauty of Jesus. spread out, becoming refugees across (Romans 15:13) the world, but often in neighbouring Bangladesh. Traveling to see these family Pray for God to give the local Burmese members is often not possible. “I haven’t speaking churches a heart for their Muslim neighbours. (1 John 2:3-6)
18 APRIL 27 - DAY 15 Samarkand, Uzbekistan Muslim Population: 510 000
Samarkand is a beautiful, almost mythical During the 1990s, Uzbekistan’s government city, made famous as a crossroads on the opened the previously closed nation Silk Road trading route. The city boasts up to the rest of the world following the three historic sections: the ancient 7th collapse of the Soviet Union. Business and century city destroyed by Genghis Khan tourism were encouraged, enabling foreign in the 13th century; the medieval city of workers to enter cities like Samarkand, the 14-15th centuries when Islamic art and including Christians who taught English architecture was very influential; and the and shared the gospel. Local fellowships of 19th and 20th century developments built believers from a Muslim background were by Russians. established. How can we pray?
Most of Samarkand’s population identify In 2006, this freedom ended, and Christianity was introduced to themselves as ethnically Tajik, which is foreign workers were expelled, and the Samarkand even before Islam, and a Persian culture, as opposed to Uzbek, persecution of Christians began. However, though it has been suppressed which is a Turkic people group. Cultural the church in Samarkand and other parts repeatedly, it keeps coming back. Pray for freedom of religion in this city and differences between these groups can of Uzbekistan had been discipled well and this nation. (Matthew 5:44) cause tension. Uzbekistan is almost entirely the indigenous church grew, and it remains Muslim, but Samarkand has a Christian small, but strong. Christians meet in house Pray for believers and fellowships in population consisting mostly of Russian churches of both Tajik and Uzbek believers Samarkand to grow, be strong and be Orthodox Christians, Catholics and other and reach out to other Muslims in their a bold witness. (Colossians 1:3-6) Christian denominations who appeared personal networks. Pray for many in Samarkand to hear in the city after the independence of the gospel and respond to it. Uzbekistan in 1991. (Matthew 7:24-25)
19 APRIL 28 - DAY 16 Doha, Qatar Muslim Population: 641 000
While chatting after work one day, David of worship in Muslim Qatar. Some of Priya’s invited Khalid out for coffee at the Doha fellow workers from India and Nepal saw business where he had recently been the help she received from the Christian transferred from England. Khalid accepted community and began to attend with her. enthusiastically. David was new in Doha, but very friendly, and seemed interested There are an estimated 150 000 Christians in getting to know the Qatari residents of in Doha, most of them Catholic migrant the city. Most of the residents in Doha are workers. Expats like David and Priya have not actually from Qatar, but are migrant opportunities to discreetly share their faith workers, mostly from south or southeast with others in the city, which is the largest Asia. Khalid was also curious about David’s population center in Qatar. Christians are faith, as he had heard David talking with allowed to practice their faith, but it is another colleague about where to find a illegal to proselytize so it is important to be How can we pray? place for Christian worship in the city. sensitive and respectful, but it is possible. Pray for the safety of migrant workers in Doha, who work long hours in Priya came to Doha two years ago from uncertain conditions. (Psalm 91:1-16) India, to work in a hotel so she could send money to her family. The coronavirus Pray for Christians in Doha to be bold pandemic caused many migrant workers but wise in their witness. in low-paid jobs to go without salaries for (Matthew 10:16) a time. Priya relied on food donations and Pray for many residents of Doha – support from members of the expat church Qatari and expat – to come to faith in she attends every Friday, which is the day Jesus. (John 14:6)
20 APRIL 29 – DAY 17 Toronto, Canada Muslim Population: 500 000
The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is known as “Generally speaking, Muslims would love the most ethnolinguistically diverse metro to hear you mention them in your prayers.” area in North America and possibly the Muslims desire to be in paradise with God. world. It is a present-day example of what But they must see that eternity with Him Paul said in Acts 17:26-27: “[God] made only comes through knowing Jesus as from one man every nation of mankind to their Lord and Savior. Mohamed added live on all the face of the earth…” he is thankful for Christians who ask how they can pray for their Muslim friends. At least 500,000 Muslim individuals live in Such a simple act can be a profound the Greater Toronto Area, which makes demonstration of Christ’s love. How can we pray? them a significant minority in a city that is a
global hub. There are around 220 mosque Pray for immigrants, adapting to the communities in GTA. Many Muslims climate, culture, and changes of life in immigrated to Toronto due to wars, Toronto. (Deuteronomy 10:18-19) privation, poverty, disappointment with Pray for the Holy Spirit to draw Islam, better educational opportunities, Mohamed and others like him to faith and persecution. The majority of Canadian in Christ, so that they can show other Muslims have come from countries where Muslims the beauty of the gospel. they have had no opportunity to discover (Matthew 25:35-40) Jesus Christ. Pray that Toronto’s Muslims become friends with Christians and have Mohamed, a Muslim from Syria, is pursuing positive experiences with the his college degree in Canada. He said, Canadian church. (Acts 17:26-28)
21 APRIL 30 - DAY 18 Berlin, Germany Muslim Population: 400 000
As Bernd rides the subway home, he families, then Bernd tells Murat a story thinks about meeting his friend Murat. from the Bible. Murat knows the Koran very Murat is Yemeni Arab who came to Berlin well, but he finds the stories from the Old as a businessman. After setting up a Testament very interesting. Bernd learns a successful trade in ethnic jewelry, he was lot about Islam from Murat. able to invest in an entire building. Murat turned part of the building into a popular Bernd hopes to move from telling Old Arabic restaurant and in the other part Testament stories, to sharing stories of of the building, he has set up a mosque, Jesus. He prays with Murat, for his family How can we pray? decorated in traditional Yemeni style. and business, finishing his prayers by stroking his hands over his face, in the There are 50 unreached Muslim About 200 men come for the midday same way Muslims do and is cordially ethnic groups in Berlin. Pray for them prayer on Friday, filling the room. Bernd is invited to return. to hear the good news of Christ and for fellowships of believers to start. impressed by Murat’s commitment to be (Isaiah 56:6-7) a good Muslim, even sacrificing space in his business. Bernd has been to Murat’s Pray for the Church in Germany to be mosque many times. Murat, as head of a blessing to their Muslim neighbours the mosque, has assured Bernd, “The and share their faith, like Bernd. (John 3:1-15) doors are always open for you. You are no
stranger here.” Pray for the Yemenis in Berlin, to hear the gospel and share it among their Together the two men sit on the floor of networks in Yemen, where it is harder the mosque. First, they talk about their to reach. (Romans 10:14)
22 MAY 1 - DAY 19 Karachi, Pakistan Muslim Population: 15 000 000
Located on the coast of southern Pakistan, The desperation, disorganisation, Karachi is known as the economic hub of and poverty that brought the bulk of the country. The residents of Karachi are immigrants to Karachi is also evident in the very diverse. Over the years, immigrants culture of the city. Complaints are common from various parts of the country have about poor infrastructure, economic arrived in the city in search of better work disparity, corruption in leadership, crime, opportunities. Nearly all the over 400 and gender inequality. On a more personal unreached people groups in Pakistan level, Karachiites speak of on-going family are represented in Karachi’s population. quarrels, betrayal in friendships, domestic Additionally, large groups of refugees from violence, emotional blackmail, and only Afghanistan and Bangladesh now call being able to trust themselves. How can we pray? Karachi home.
Residents who have given up hope for Pray for the Church in Karachi to live The city boasts a population estimated change will say, “This is Pakistan,” in a in the opposite spirit of confusion, at 15 million and is 95% Muslim. Of these fatalistic tone. They are resigned to the disorganisation and corruption and Muslims, many different sects may be brokenness of their city, but change is show the way to the truth and the life of Christ. (John 14:6) found with views that range from tightly possible.
conservative to very liberal. A small Pray for Muslims in Karachi to have Christian minority resides in the city, but dreams and revelations of Jesus. they are often persecuted and looked (Acts 2:17-18) down upon. Most do not have an interest in Pray for more Christian workers in reaching their Muslim neighbors. Karachi, to bring the light and love of Christ to the city. (1 John 1:1-7)
23 MAY 2 - DAY 20 Nairobi, Kenya Muslim Population: 500 000
Nairobi is the capital of Kenya, with a Somalis are the largest unreached people population of over 4.3 million people. The group in Kenya but because their people Muslim population in Nairobi is largely are associated with extremist groups, immigrant: the Nubi in Kibra (Kibera) who many Kenyan Christians are afraid to came to Kenya around 1850, the Swahili engage with them. Some Christian Muslims who came from Mombasa and workers, however, have been courageously Kenya’s coastal counties, and the Somalis offering the gospel through their witness, from Somalia. community assistance and hosting public meetings with Muslim scholars, to discuss Inside the Eastleigh suburb in Nairobi their faith. exists the third largest population of urban How can we pray? Somalis in Africa outside their homeland. Abdi became a follower of Christ at Somali Muslims in Nairobi are conservative university. His Muslim family refuses to Pray for young Muslims in Nairobi, that they will be increasingly open to talk both in culture and religion. Their group have anything to do with him, and he about faith with Christians in the city. is a majority among Muslims in Nairobi has also found it difficult to connect with (Romans 10:17) but a minority in the city compared to Christians in Nairobi, who are suspicious of Christians. They are influential in business him. He and a few other Somali Christians Pray for Nairobi Christians to be bold and perceived as hardworking, but hostile have started meeting privately with a local in their witness and prepared to talk with Muslims about their experience of and conservative by other communities. pastor to pray about starting a Somali Christ. (Romans 10:14-15) However, some younger, educated Somalis fellowship that reaches out to their own are more secular and engage more with people. Pray for many Somali Muslims to follow non-Muslims. Christ in Nairobi and establish new fellowships among their people. (1 Peter 3:15)
24 MAY 3 - DAY 21 Basel, Switzerland Muslim Population: 18 000
“Here in the church, it began when a Swiss city of Basel are officially defined as Kurdish footballer got saved. He joyfully Muslims, but are deeply disappointed by and passionately passed on the message the situation in their homelands. They had of Jesus to his family and friends. Through to leave their countries (Iraq, Syria, Turkey) him, a friend, his sister, his girlfriend, his for political and economic reasons. cousin and another colleague came to Jesus.” To build relationships and trust, believers have long offered German lessons and The metropolitan area of Basel is home children’s clubs in some of the migrant How can we pray? to 1.3 million people and extends across neighbourhoods in the city and the the three countries of Switzerland, France outlying districts. After decades of prayer, That God calls and saves many Muslims in Basel, and through them and Germany. The “Biovalley” on the Rhine the positive reactions of second-generation will reach their circles of friends. (Acts owes its economic strength to the chemical Kurds are now very encouraging for the 2:40-42) and pharmaceutical sector and to medical, communities in the region. nano and biotechnology. This life science That Swiss and migrant believers industry attracts many foreigners to the together in unity can live out a powerful witness for Muslims in such Swiss city. migrant neighbourhoods. (Psalm 133:1) About 10% of Basel’s population are Muslims. Many came first as guest workers Pray for the challenges that immigrant and later as asylum seekers. Two-thirds of Muslim families face in Basel from moving to a very different culture and them are from Turkey. Most of the 8,000 raising children who grow up in that Turks and 10,000 Kurds who live in the culture. (Psalm 20:1-5)
25 MAY 4 – DAY 22 Sydney, Australia Muslim Population: 255 000
Muslims account for less than 2% of the and sceptical and went along with his Australian population, but approximately friend to see what it was about. 40% of that population lives in the multi- cultural city of Sydney. Muslims in Sydney Ali enjoyed the meal and was intrigued are ethnically, linguistically, and culturally by the group’s sincere desire to follow diverse, having come from more than 120 Scripture. Impressed by the way everyone countries. loved and respected one another, despite different ages, genders, jobs, and Ali is from a strongly Muslim nation but nationalities, Ali kept coming and slowly has found refuge and work in Sydney. came to know and love Jesus too. How can we pray? A friend invited him along to a home fellowship, where he knew followers of The house fellowship meetings included Pray for many Christians in Sydney to Jesus gathered for prayer and Bible study. familiar elements of his home country’s be willing to show love to immigrants, students, and visitors from Muslim Ali had been warned about ‘churches’ all hospitality and language, but the love of countries. (Ephesians 2:19) his life and would certainly not want to be the community was radically different, and seen entering a church building. This city Ali heard and believed the gospel in an Pray for Muslims in Sydney to seemed to be filled with endless cultural environment of community love. encounter the love of Christ and His centres, places of worship, and places of people. (Romans 12:9) debauchery…and Ali steadfastly avoided May God continue to use the them all. But this seemed different. These movement of people around the world were mostly people from his own country, to bring those from “closed” countries or countries nearby. Ali was both interested into contact with the gospel for His glory! (1 Corinthians 9:19-23)
26 MAY 5 - DAY 23 Dhaka, Bangladesh Muslim Population: 19 000 000
Editor’s note: We have included two articles welcome many guests into their small about Dhaka in this edition, because of how home, as is tradition among Bengali large and strategic this city is for your prayers. Muslims.
Dhaka is the capital of Bangladesh and More than half of the population lives in one of the most densely populated cities in poverty in this rapidly growing mega-city. the world. Many residents came to Dhaka Many women like Maliha earn very little in from rural areas with the hope of finding the sweatshops. The chance that they will work and education. There is work, but the hear about Jesus is small, because there How can we pray? working conditions are extremely tough. are very few efforts to share the gospel in Bangladesh, and only about a quarter of Pray for courage and opportunities for the small number of believers, Maliha is one of the countless workers in them are focused on Muslims, although especially those of a Muslim Dhaka’s clothing factories. Even during they make up 90% of the population. It is background, to share their faith. Ramadan, she sets off for the factory at estimated that there are less than 1000 (2 Timothy 2:1-7) 7:00 a.m., where she works 12 to 14 hours believers with a Muslim background in a day. For most of the time, she sits at Dhaka. Pray for more church planting efforts in Dhaka, with organizations putting the sewing machine and turns pieces of resources into this strategic city. fabric into t-shirts for a western fashion (Romans 10:13-14) label. When she comes home tired in the evening, she breaks the fast and says her Pray for business and factory owners prayers before resting for a while. Maliha to hear the good news and become those who influence society and is looking forward to the Eid at the end improve the situation for factory of Ramadan when she and her family will workers. (Matthew 19:16-30)
27 MAY 6 – DAY 24 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Muslim Population: 3 680 000
Usually, Aminah would have taken the as “KL”) has a population of just under 8 elevated train with her roommates but she million and Aminah is one of almost 500 was running late and didn’t get breakfast 000 university students in the city. She is a before she left for school. So, she stopped Malay, from a village in another state. Many at the fresh orange juice machine at new students are more open to the Gospel her station and paid with an app on her when they are learning and exploring new phone. She didn’t have to worry if the ideas away from home. drink was halal or not, as you could watch the oranges being squeezed through the Malaysia now has 4 universities in the window. global top 150, so young Christians can come from anywhere and be a blessing to Aminah felt so privileged to be on a Muslims at universities in KL, while getting How can we pray? government scholarship and she wanted to a degree at about one-third of what it costs Pray for Christians in KL to reach out make her family proud; so she would make in many Western nations. across barriers of religion, race, and sure she wasn’t late again, and she would language to share about Jesus with stick with her housemates to avoid the Muslims. (Romans 8:38-39) dangers of travelling on the train alone. Pray for legal barriers to sharing the gospel in Malaysia to be diminished. Malaysia is officially a Muslim nation (Proverbs 21:1) although it is also ethnically diverse, with about 61% of the population identifying Pray for student ministries in KL and as Muslim. Kuala Lumpur (locally known for Christians in the universities to be a good testimony of Christ. (Jeremiah 1:7-8)
28 MAY 7 - DAY 25 Sana’a, Yemen Muslim Population: 19 000 000
The Old City in the Yemeni capital of Sana’a Although the people of Sana’a are used is known for its magnificent buildings. to suffering, many are now struggling to Sana’a has been inhabited for more than survive. Ramadan is celebrated in a very 2,500 years and some of the current traditional way in the Old City of Sana’a, buildings date back to pre-Islamic times. but it is challenging for many to find the Made of clay, these ancient skyscrapers resources to have something like a typical reach up to 14 meters, with elaborate Eid party. decorations and stained-glass windows. More than 100 mosques – among them Officially the religion in Yemen is 100% How can we pray? one of the oldest in the world – are also Islam, but more people are turning to found here. Christ in these times. The very few local For the many suffering people in this city and that the Lord will have followers of Jesus are bold in their witness mercy on them. Pray for political and However, the Muslims who live in these when it comes to showing the love of Christ practical solutions to the long-lasting beautiful houses face great suffering. by supporting the people around them and conflict in the city and the whole The civil war started in 2015 and has speaking about their eternal hope. country. (Isaiah 26:1-4) evolved into the biggest humanitarian For God to reveal Himself through crisis worldwide. 3 million people suffer dreams and visions to the Muslims in from acute malnutrition and four-fifths this city. (Job 33:14-15) of the entire population require urgent humanitarian assistance. The Covid-19 That the few believers in the city pandemic has made the situation worse continue to have the boldness and resources to witness about their hope during the past year. through word and deed and see many in Sana’a come to faith in Christ. (Philippians 4:4-7) 29 MAY 8 - DAY 26 How can we pray? Hamburg, Germany Pray for the Ahmadiyyas in Hamburg to Muslim Population: 90 000 connect with Christians who also serve the city and learn from one another. (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Karim, a young man from Pakistan is for none” and they demonstrate this There are about 40 000 Ahmadiyyas waiting for me at the door of the ‘Fazle- actively in Hamburg society. Every New living in many cities across Germany. Pray for them and for Muslims from other Omar-Mosque’ in Hamburg, Germany. It Year’s Day they clean up the rubbish traditions living in Hamburg. (John 3:16) is the oldest mosque in the city, opened in left from fireworks in the inner city. 1957. He shows me around and explains to Blood donation events and tree planting It is important for Christian workers to me the history of the Ahmadiyya Muslim ceremonies are all part of their effort to understand who the Muslims in their city Jamaat, an Islamic reform movement bless the host nation where they live. are - their culture, their traditions, sects, and experiences. Pray for workers in founded in Punjab, India, in the late 19th Hamburg to have insight into who the century. There are no known followers of Jesus in Muslims in their city are, like the writer Germany who come from the Ahmadiyya here. (1 Corinthians 13:12) The founder of the Ahmadiyyas claimed Movement and not much interaction with to be a prophet commissioned by God, followers of Jesus. sent to reform Islam. His claim was very controversial and soon his followers in This night is Laylat-al-Qadr, the Night South Asia were persecuted. For this of Power. On this night Muslims believe there is a special opportunity reason, many fled to the West and some for God to hear their prayers, forgive came to Hamburg. their sins and plan their destiny. It is said that prayers and worship on Karim explains that the current spiritual this night are worth more than all the leader of the Ahmadiyyas delivers a prayers and worship of a lifetime. Friday speech to the whole community Pray especially for Muslims all over the by satellite. The motto of the Ahmadiyya world to experience the presence of Muslim Community is: “Love for all. Hate Jesus on this night.
30 MAY 9 - DAY 27 Accra, Ghana Muslim Population: 650 000
Islam is a minority religion in Ghana, to save as much as possible. The Kayaye which is over 70% Christian, but mostly are often looked down upon by others the different communities live peaceably in the city. Without education, wearing together. In Ghana, thousands of Muslims poor clothing and with no room to sleep from the rural north, make the journey in, people’s attitude towards them tends to to what is perceived as the richer urban be disrespectful. areas in the south. Among them are often young girls between 14 and 16 years of age Christian groups offer different services who migrate to big cities like Accra to work such as education for head porters with in markets or on the streets as head load children, medical services for the sick and carriers known as Kayaye. There are an injured, and basic health education which estimated 180 000 Kayaye in Accra alone. have contributed towards making life How can we pray? These ladies eat and sleep by the roadside better for some of the Kayaye in Accra. The Pray for the Kayaye women in Accra, or in lorry stations and marketplaces, economic crisis from the impact of Covid-19 for opportunities to improve their lives. exposed to vices such as fraud, rape and gave many opportunities for Christians to (Psalm 31:19) theft. demonstrate compassion and generosity. One group recently distributed over 2300 For Christians in Accra, reaching out Habiba, for example, left home because food packages to women and children to Muslims in the city, for their good works to bring glory to God. (Matthew her parents could not afford the school sleeping on the street. 5:16) fees she needed to complete her education. During the day she carries For recovery from the losses caused loads on her head, eats little and tries by the pandemic, and for growth in the Church and in their outreach to Muslims. (Acts 2:42-47)
31 MAY 10 - DAY 28 Banjarmasin, Indonesia Muslim Population: 720 000
Banjarmasin was founded on September time and this is an opportunity for them to 24, in 1526, when an Islamic procession share the good news. was carried out symbolizing that Islam was officially entering South Kalimantan, The Banjar language is widely used a province on the island of Borneo, in as a common language across South Indonesia. Islam has been the majority Kalimantan and is a “gateway language” religion in South Kalimantan ever since for other related languages. So, once that date. On this same date every year, the Banjar have a complete Bible in their Muslims visit the grave of their first language, that Bible will be a helpful aid in sultan ruler and then worship together in producing Bibles in other local languages. the large mosque and sacrifice a goat or How can we pray? cow for the caretaker of the cemetery of Although there are 28 churches in this city, Pray for discipleship movements to that sultan. most church members are from other grow in this influential city and for ethnic groups. There is still no church yet thousands of fellowships to emerge Every year, the Banjar celebrate the that worships God in the Banjar language that worship God in the Banjar end of Ramadan with large open trucks even though the language is spoken by language. (Acts 2) caravanning throughout the city with more than four million people. Learn more Pray for believers in this city to fireworks, shouting, and loud horns. They about the Banjar at: www.pray4thebanjar. become bolder in sharing their faith then spend 1-2 weeks visiting friends com. with Banjar Muslims. and family to continue the celebration. (2 Corinthians 2:14) Believers are often invited to eat a meal Pray for the ongoing work of with their Muslim friends and family at this translation in this gateway language. (Psalm 119:105)
32 MAY 11 - DAY 29 Tripoli, Libya Muslim Population: 1 165 000
Hassan made his way to one of Tripoli’s of Tripoli. Coffee is a socially significant newly opened cafes. Although Tripoli has ingredient throughout the Middle East, many options for getting coffee, he liked present at times of joy and sorrow, the more spacious and modern design personal and business meetings. It is a of the newer cafes as opposed to the symbol of generosity and hospitality. cramped and noisy cafes in the older parts of the city. The new cafes were also more In Tripoli, cafés are the places where the likely to be frequented by young people… elderly and the young meet to socialise, even young women. gossip, argue and plan. They are a place people go to exchange ideas and get to Hassan was meeting a group of friends, know new people. This makes them an international students he had met at ideal environment for discipleship. How can we pray? university. They met up at their favorite Islam is the state religion in Libya. Pray café regularly to talk about politics, There are less than 100 000 Christians in for greater freedom, socially and legally, sport, and religion. Several of them were Libya, but there are an estimated 1500 to talk about different faiths so people Christians and Hassan was interested believers from a Muslim background. can learn about Jesus. (John 16:33) in their beliefs, having never met a As the largest city in Libya, and the most Christian before. He was intrigued by their diverse, Tripoli is full of opportunity. Tripoli remains always on the edge of conflict, with ongoing violence from civil experiences and their descriptions of Jesus’ war and extremist groups surrounding it. teaching and wanted to know more. Pray for peace in this city. (Psalm 2)
Cafés play an important part in the culture Pray for cafes to become centres of discipleship, with many more Muslims coming to follow Jesus. (John 8:31-32)
33 MAY 12 - DAY 30 Damascus, Syria Muslim Population: 2 153 000
Damascus is famous in Christian history around 2 392 000. The city saw rapid as the place where the Apostle Paul growth at the beginning of the 21st century, encountered Christ supernaturally, became mostly with young people coming to the a follower of Jesus and began his world- city for work and education. More recently, changing mission. many have also left the city, fleeing the civil war. Most of the current residents Damascus is one of the oldest continually are Syrian Arabs, but there are also some inhabited cities in the world, settled around Kurds and even a small community of 2B.C. The United Nations has declared Palestinians. The Christian population it a World Heritage centre for its unique is slightly higher in the city, compared historic and cultural significance. Not only to the nation as a whole, about 15-20% How can we pray? is it important in Christian history, but in Damascus, compared to 10% overall.
Damascus was a key centre in the Muslim There is also a small but ancient Jewish The Christian community in Damascus struggle against the Crusades and was the population. is made up of several, mostly capital of the Ummayad Caliphate, one Orthodox denominations. Pray for of four Caliphates established after the Christians and Muslims largely live them to have unity and to serve one another in love. (Galatians 5:13) death of Islam’s founder, Muhammed. A peaceably in Damascus – they have bigger
caliphate is a type of government under an struggles that they face together, as Pray for peace in Syria so this ancient Islamic spiritual leader who claims to be a Syrians, facing war. Still, as a minority, they city can rebuild and prosper in safety. successor of Muhammad. face persecution and the ongoing threat of (Acts 9:31) danger as the war continues. Pray for many Muslim residents of Today, the population of Damascus is Damascus to encounter Christ as Paul did. (Acts 9:1-22)
34 CLOSING Keep Praying!
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims in cities around the world.
How can we pray?
Since 30 Days of Prayer began, After 30 days of fasting, the Eid there have been more documented celebration at the end of Ramadan is movements to Christ among a joyful time that usually lasts about Muslims than ever before. Pray for 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, the momentum to continue as new exchange gifts and, of course, enjoy disciples in turn disciple others and fellowships are formed in cities and special foods. In Muslim majority villages around the world. (Acts 2:17- nations, the streets may be decorated, 21) and festivals will be held. Pray for Christian workers and Eid al Fitr (“the festival of breaking the organizations which are serving in urban centers. If you would like fast”) begins for many Muslims with to connect with organizations that communal prayers at daybreak and the are doing this, contact us for more distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, information at: [email protected] which is one of the five pillars of Islam. Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have God’s heart for You can greet Muslim friends during this Muslims, to see them as He does, time by saying, “Eid Mubarak,” which and to be the light that leads them to means “Blessed Eid!” Jesus. (Matthew 5:14-15)
35 Thank you!
Thank you to all of those who make 30 Days possible each year – our contributors, photographers, translators, design and distribution teams around the world, and the mission and church organizations who support and inspire them.
And thank you to you for participating in 30 Days of Prayer for the Muslim World in 2021! We hope to see you next year!
We always appreciate your feedback. Contact us through our website: www.pray30days.org or Learn more, pray more, change more! by email at: [email protected] or follow us on social media at:
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