Pray for Liberia

Liberia, the oldest republic in Africa, was founded by freed slaves who sought to establish a nation in which man was not owned but free. The country overflows with cultural richness, celebrated through rhythmic traditional dances, vibrant textiles, and a famously warm, welcoming hospitality known across the region. It continues to rebuild after two devastating civil wars that left deep social, economic, and political wounds.

Sex trafficking is widespread, and many of the victims are children. Poverty remains prevalent, and educational challenges continue to affect many communities, especially in rural areas. Emotional and psychological scars of war and disease plague Liberia. Two civil wars between 1989 and 2003 claimed 300,000 lives. These wars demolished the nation’s economic system and traumatized its people. Liberia was forced to fight yet another battle when Ebola struck in 2014. The horrific disease claimed nearly 5,000 lives. The outbreak strained the nation’s healthcare system and economy, and many communities continue to face challenges related to healthcare access, poverty, and clean water. In the midst of these tragedies, Liberians celebrate freedom of religion. Approximately 42% follow ethnic religions, 40% claim Christianity, and 16% are Muslim.

Significant progress has been made in making Scripture available in Liberia’s languages, but widespread lack of literacy makes audio Bibles a critical need. Much of the population lives without sound Biblical teaching. Many doors have opened for the spread of the Gospel throughout the country, including the Ebola crisis, which provided countless opportunities to share the love of Jesus through tangible medical care. But the false teachings of the prosperity Gospel are present in many regions. Christianity is also often mixed with local religions. May the Holy Spirit motivate Liberians to reach the unreached with His love and give them a desire to introduce their own people to Jesus, their only Savior.