Pray for Congo

From monstrous oil tankers to dugout canoes no larger than a man, boats carry every kind of cargo along the Congo River through the capital of Brazzaville. This great river serves as the Republic of Congo’s superhighway for oil wealth. Drawing workers in from all around the country, the Congo River has also made the republic one of the most urbanized nations in Africa. Seventy percent of the population lives in the bustling cities of Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire. These cities have enjoyed relative security after bloody civil wars (1997–2003), and the democratic constitution has provided for a relatively stable government. The government is working with Chinese and Arab companies to create mining and drilling projects that further tap into the nation’s natural resources.

Despite good literacy rates, abundant resources, and billions of dollars in annual oil revenue, about half of the Congolese population lives in poverty. Most of them must farm, fish, or hunt to provide food for themselves, and they do not always come home with enough. Though the government has helped the nation make progress, many people living in poverty have been forgotten by it as it grows increasingly authoritarian. Some national leaders promised to invest oil wealth in healthcare, education, and jobs, but poor management stifled progress. Others in this fragile democracy imprison political opponents and consolidate power to plunder the national resources. Journalists and public figures who protest these government leaders are quickly silenced.

The majority of Congolese identify as Christian, but most do not claim Christ as the only way to salvation. Many combine basic Christian ideas with spiritual rituals and idol worship. Moreover, from 1968 to 1991, a Marxist government banned mission organizations and suppressed Christianity, raising a generation with little interest in spiritual life. The Church persevered despite these challenges, but it remains closely watched by the current government and still struggles to reach the next generation. There is great need for trained, Bible-believing pastors who can disciple their congregations and encourage them to live as ambassadors for Jesus.