Pray for Portugal

Lush green forests drape Portugal’s rolling hills, supporting its thriving logging and cork industries. Bound by a single language, the Portuguese people have maintained a strong national identity. During the 15th and 16th centuries, Portugal was a powerful country with colonies in Brazil and other parts of Asia and Africa. At that time, it was one of the richest nations in the world. Over the years, these colonies became independent or were given up, which reduced Portugal’s power and wealth. In 1910, the monarchy ended, and following a period of political instability, a dictatorship was established in 1926, which lasted for several decades. In 1974, a bloodless military coup ended the dictatorship and led to important democratic reforms.

Today, Portugal’s democracy faces challenges, as many people have lost trust in the government. Corruption has been reported at local and national levels. Several high-profile scandals and slow progress on reforms have caused people to question the country’s leaders. Allegations of favoritism and conflicts of interest have weakened public confidence. Concerns about police misconduct, including official human rights reports citing racially motivated excessive force, have also decreased public trust. Portugal also struggles with addiction. Portugal also continues to battle heavy rates of substance abuse. Severe drug addiction places massive strain on families and the public healthcare system.

Christianity in Portugal is often more of a cultural tradition than a personal faith. More than 80 percent of the population identifies as Catholic, but only a small number regularly attend church. The Portuguese youth are often led astray by New Age ideals, Mormonism, and Jehovah’s Witnesses. Even so, God is greater than corruption, addiction, and the problems of this world. Portugal needs spiritual renewal now more than ever. As more people read and understand the Bible, Christians believe that the Holy Spirit can work in their hearts and bring lasting change.