Pray for Micronesia

This archipelago of 607 islands stretches across nearly one million square miles of the Pacific. These islands rise up from the ocean topped by massive hills and blanketed by a forest of trees. Some peek just above the water— little mounds of green surrounded by pale fields of coral. Others look like great rocks, plucked from the side of a massive mountain and thrown into the middle of the sea. The scattering of communities among the islands makes the family and village the center of daily life, yet there is still a sense of “unity among diversity” that draws the islands together. Unlike most societies, most Micronesians trace family heritage through their mothers, and female elders have great influence within their clans. Once ruled by Spain, Germany, and Japan, Micronesia is now an independent nation in free association with the U.S.

Around half of the Micronesian government’s spending comes from U.S. aid, and the economy revolves around the public sector. Micronesia suffers from high unemployment, as their isolated, resource-deficient lands provide few economic opportunities. Its remote location and poor infrastructure keep Micronesia’s beautiful islands from attracting tourists. Fishing (the nation’s largest source of domestic revenue) and small-scale farming provide most of the nation’s jobs. Efforts to develop the industrial sector have produced few results. Besides these economic issues, Micronesia is struggling with an epidemic of obesity and diabetes.

When the Spanish Empire ruled Micronesia, most inhabitants were converted to Roman Catholicism. Today Micronesia is almost completely Christian, with nearly half being Protestant and the other half being Catholic. However, traces of former animistic traditions remain, including spirit worship and the use of traditional narcotics. Nominalism is widespread, and church leaders often promote false teachings. Numerous pastors in Micronesia have been appointed with no training. Consumerism, idleness, youth suicide, Mormon missionaries, and limited Bible translation all further harm the Church’s progress. Still, there are congregations in Micronesia that faithfully serve as Christ’s ambassadors in their communities.