Pray for Egypt

As one of the oldest nations on Earth, Egypt is often known for its ancient pyramids and the biblical story of the Israelites’ deliverance. Though it has a predominantly desert landscape, farms and sprawling cities line the banks of the Nile River. Egypt remains the most populous country in the Arab world and holds great regional and global influence. Its diverse economy, including tourism, natural gas, and Suez Canal revenues, is one of the largest in Africa. For Egyptians, family serves as the cornerstone of life. Warm and relational, Egyptians deeply value honoring guests, respecting elders, maintaining close community ties, and gathering for traditional family and religious celebrations.

Many Egyptians — particularly young people and those in rural communities — face poverty and struggle to find stable employment. Inflation, high food prices, and massive public debt strain household finances across the country despite economic reforms. Critics accuse the government of failing its citizens by prioritizing public spending on massive infrastructure projects despite recurring economic crises. The government, under the authoritarian grip of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, cracks down on peaceful critics and systematically represses human rights defenders. Despite freedoms guaranteed in their constitution, women face severe discrimination, especially in the workforce and in the justice system. Minorities, such as refugees and people with disabilities, face similar discrimination and harassment.

Egypt has one of the oldest Christian communities in the world, and today it is home to the Middle East’s largest body of Christians — the Coptic Orthodox Church (making up 10 percent of the population). Evangelical Christianity is on the rise, though it accounts for less than two percent of the population. Even though Islam is the state religion, Christians generally worship openly. However, mobs occasionally expel Christians after blasphemy allegations, and converts from Islam face intense social and familial pressure. Despite these threats, vibrant evangelical churches actively minister to the nation through discipleship, education, healthcare, Bible distribution, and compassionate humanitarian outreach. The large Egyptian Church is poised to reach the entire Middle East and North Africa region with the Gospel, and leaders are working to wake this “sleeping giant.”