Pray for Andorra

The small nation of Andorra is almost entirely covered by the Pyrenees Mountains. Towns and cities are situated in narrow valleys. Andorra is one of the smallest European states, nestled between France and Spain. With beautiful scenery, relatively low taxes, and access to winter sports, it attracts 8–10 million tourists a year, vastly outnumbering the resident population of just over 80,000. Since the Middle Ages, it has been co-ruled by the Bishop of Urgell in Spain and the French head of state, while maintaining its own national identity. In 1993, Andorra adopted its own democracy and constitution, and the Bishop of Urgell and the French head of state are now mainly ceremonial roles with limited constitutional powers.

Andorra is held tightly in the grip of materialism, partly due to low taxes and high tourism. The nation faces substance abuse and mental health concerns. Andorra is also experiencing a housing crisis; skyrocketing real estate costs have left many residents unable to afford to buy, so more than half of the population relies on rentals. A steady wave of incoming immigration is driving up demand, pushing affordable housing completely out of reach. Though Andorra has a strong economy and one of the highest life expectancies in the world, it also has an exceptionally low fertility rate. This rapidly aging population means increased pension needs and medical care, which could overwhelm the country’s healthcare and savings systems.

Like much of Europe, Andorra is becoming increasingly secular. Freedom of religion was established in 1993 with the constitution, and though the majority of Andorrans identify as Catholic, many are culturally religious rather than actively practicing Christian faith. Even among Christians, spiritual folk practices are common, and many consult mediums and seers for guidance rather than the Lord. Biblical Christianity struggles to retain a foothold due to occult influence. Though it is a traditional part of the culture, Catholicism has lost its appeal for many.