10/40 Window Reporter May 2009 by Window International Network

WINDOW INTERNATIONAL NETWORK

May 2009 Edition

inside Praise Report: Iraqis Watching Christian Satellite Television

Tibetans protest Chinese rule

PRAYER POINTS FOR EVERY 10/40 WINDOW NATION

general elections in india

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THE 10/40 WINDOW REPORTER : MAY 2009

Praise Report: Iraqis Watching Christian Satellite Television

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PRAYER POINTS FOR EVERY 10/40 WINDOW NATION

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Tibetans protest Chinese rule

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Praise Report: Iraqis Watching Christian Satellite Television

In a praise report from a Window International Network’s 10/40 Window Gateway Partner, satellite television has become the most effective way to reach and encourage not only Iraqi Christians, but also the entire population of war-torn Iraq.

“M

ost Iraqi families spend many hours in the relative security of their homes watching satellite television,” said officials for SAT-7, a Christian satellite television ministry that broadcast in the Middle East and North Africa. “Many have turned to SAT-7 for hope and encouragement. We are excited to share a recent study about SAT-7’s impact in Iraq.” Data just released from a nationwide study in Iraq found that 97% of the 28 million population has access to satellite television and that 18.8%, or 5.3 million

May 2009

people, watch SAT-7, Assist News Service (ANS) reported.

and non-Christian, are watching the broadcasts.”

Intermedia, the independent audience research firm which conducted the study, also found that SAT-7 is only 1.7 percentage points behind BBC Arabic in the number of people aware of the channel.

Iraq is ranked No. 21 on Open Doors’ 2008 World Watch List of nations where Christians are persecuted for their faith. According to Window International Network’s Praying Through The Window 9 prayer calendar, the day of prayer for Iraq is on day 15.

SAT-7 is also providing vital support to the struggling Christian community in Iraq, who were forced to flee from their homes due to a wave of violence in October 2008. “Iraqi Christians (Assyrians) have really suffered in recent years and many have fled the country,” said David Harder, SAT-7’s communications manager, ANS reported. “Iraqis often call and text us asking for prayer. Fortunately, through our programs SAT-7’s Arabic producers and hosts can show God’s love and offer encouragement. We’ve had responses from Iraq for years, but now we know that literally millions of Iraqis, Christian

Praise for:

✚✚ Iraqis watching Christian satellite television. ✚✚ God’s favor on SAT-7.

Pray for:

✚✚ Religious freedom in Iraq. ✚✚ God to be the Shield, Comforter, Provider. Deliverer, and Encourager of displaced Assyrians. Pray The Bible, Psalm 91 (NIV) ✚✚ The Lord to breathe His love and mercy over Iraq, and draw nominal Christians closer to Jesus. Pray that all Believers will be properly discipled in the ways of the Kingdom of God. ✚✚ Revival in Iraq, and that all leaders in government and spiritual leaders will accept Jesus as Lord and Savior.

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In December 2006 and January 2007, government forces disrupted a terrorist cell that allegedly targeted domestic and foreign interests in Tunisia. Six of those involved are thought to have entered Tunisia from Algeria, where they received training and support. Tunisian security forces killed 12 members of the group, reportedly called Assad Ibn Fouratâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Army, and captured 15 others. In December 2007, 30 individuals associated with the cell were convicted by the Tunis Court of First Instance of various terrorism-related charges.

he Tunisian government actively prevented the formation of terrorist groups inside Tunisia, including prohibiting the formation of religiousbased political parties and groups that it believed would pose a terrorist threat. Hundreds of other suspected terrorists were reportedly detained, charged, and/or convicted under Tunisiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2003 Terrorism Law and other relevant legislation. Tunisian extremists were also involved in terrorist activities abroad, including in Algeria, Italy, Iraq, and Lebanon. Domestically, the government worked to improve security procedures at borders and airports. In April 2007, 12 Tunisians were convicted of planning to travel to Algeria to join Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb. A number of Tunisians suspected of involvement in terrorist incidents

May 2009

abroad were also repatriated and subsequently charged with or convicted of terrorist activities. In November 2007, Tunisia hosted an international conference on terrorism organized by the Islamic International Educational, Cultural, and Scientific Organization. The concluding statement of the conference, which was attended by over 100 international officials and opened by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon and Tunisian President Ben Ali, stressed the role of education and economic development in defeating terrorism. During the year, Tunisia also hosted several meetings of Ministry of Interior officials from Arab League members, including ministers and chiefs of counterterrorism units, to review regional counterterrorism efforts and cooperation.

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There is a general threat from terrorism in Tunisia. Attacks have occurred in places frequented by foreign travelers. The Tunisian authorities announced that they had disrupted a terrorist group on January 3, 2007 in the area of Grombalia (south of Tunis). Twelve of the group were killed and 15 arrested. It is believed the group was planning attacks against Western interests, including embassies. Religion: Tunisia is comprised of 99.7% Muslims and only 0.2% of the population are Christians. Although Islam is the state religion, the government wants the country to be more secular, so more people prefer to worship money rather than Allah or Jesus. In this sort of environment, where most religions are not tolerated, it is hard to share the Gospel.

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Challenges for Christians: Tunisia is ranked No. 46 among nations that are the worst persecutors of Christians based on Open Doors 2008 World Watch List. The Tunisian government recognizes all Christian religious organizations that were established before independence in 1956, but did not permit other Christian groups to establish new churches. Efforts to proselytize Muslims were viewed as disturbing the public order and thus illegal. Foreign missionaries operated in the country, but were not permitted to proselytize.

Prayer Points:

✚✚ Pray that the terrorist groups in Tunisia will be thrown into confusion, and will not be able to regroup, recruit, or have the capacity to be disruptive. Pray that the demonic forces that are using the terrorists, such as Al Qaeda, like puppets will be toppled, and that the people will be set free to worship the Lord. Pray that their leaders will experience conversion to Christianity. (1 Timothy 2:1–4) ✚✚ Pray for the Tunisian government to crack down on terrorist groups. ✚✚ Pray for continued growth and discipleship in Tunisia’s churches. There are about 200 committed Christians, a tiny proportion of the country, but it is really difficult

for many Christians to keep going because they become isolated and fearful. Pray that God would bless them with faith and courage to continue to persevere; few Tunisian Believers have been Christians for more than 10 years. ✚✚ The city of Kairouan is the fourth most holy city in Islam and many Muslims travel here in search of spiritual help or healing. Pray for supernatural opportunities for people to find Jesus. Sources: 24-7 Prayer, Operation World, Wikipedia, Country Reports on Terrorism 2007, International Religious Freedom Report 2007, Open Doors, British Embassy

Tunisia, North Africa ÌÌ Population: 10,383,577 ÌÌ Political Leader: President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali ÌÌ Religions: Islam 99.7%, Christianity 0.2%, Other 0.1% ÌÌ Persecution Ranking: 46 May 2009

ÌÌ ÌÌ ÌÌ ÌÌ ÌÌ

Number of Terrorist Groups: 2 Acts of Terrorism: 16; Casualties: 31 Percent of Corruption: 54% % of People in Poverty: 7.4%

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PRAYER Points May 2009

Day 1 India- God to provide moderating forces to hold the balance of power in India, so that Hindutva cannot freely advance in the country, and pray they Hindutva will be rendered powerless. God to raise up voices in society, government, media and the Church to successfully challenge religious intolerance and hatred, and to support religious freedom across India. Mauritania- Pray for the Lord to send His healing rain to bless this desolate land - causing springs of Living Water to flow in the desert, drawing many to Salvation. (Psalm l07:35,36) Day 2 Sudan- Pray for the unity of the church across all denominations and ethnic groups, and for the Sudanese Church to be a beacon of hope and a model of reconciliation for the nation. Pray for the Christians of Sudan to be protected from harm and for the Gospel to be heard and received by all. (Romans l2:4,5) Afghanistan- Pray that the Taliban resurgence will be halted and that peace and stability will come to this war-torn country. Ask the Lord to powerfully topple the demonic forces that are using the terrorists like puppets and for the people to be set free to worship the Lord. (2 Corinthians 3:17) Day 3 Kuwait- Pray for Kuwaitis to respond to the Gospel message as it is communicated via the mass media—television, radio and printed articles. (Mark 13:10) Bangladesh- Pray that new Christian Believers from non-Christian backgrounds would be strengthened in their faith and courageous in sharing with others. (I Corinthians l6:l3) Day 4 Japan- Pray that God will call teams of prayer warriors to undergird the Church in Japan as it ministers to those who desperately need the freedom of Christ Jesus. (Colossians 1:9) Guinea-Bissau- Pray that God will reveal Himself to people in positions of influence throughout the country, that they will in turn

May 2009

share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with those around them, and live a life free of corruption. (Prov. 11:3) Day 5 Bhutan- Bhutan has one of the smallest and most underdeveloped economies in the world. Pray that citizens who rely on agriculture and forestry for their livelihood (the majority of the population) would reap fruitful harvests, and that they will know the LORD of the Harvest, Jesus, as Savior and LORD. Saudi Arabia- Pray that the Lord would reveal Himself to the millions of pilgrims who visit Mecca each year. Ask the Lord to open their spiritual eyes to the hollowness of this ritual and the demonically-inspired lies underlying the religion. Pray that they will accept the Truth of Jesus Christ and accept Him as Savior and LORD. (Acts 26:18) Day 6 Guinea- Pray God will call people to Guinea to minister to those who need aid, evangelize those who have not heard the Gospel, and disciple new Believers. (Matthew 28:18-20) Thailand- Pray that religious liberty will continue and increase and not be restricted in any way. Pray for religious acceptance so Christians who convert from Buddhism will not face social or familial pressures because of their choice. (II Thessalonians 2:15) Day 7 Niger- Pray for the supernatural release of the thousands of people that are still living in slavery, despite the 2003 ban on this centuriesold practice. Pray that God would display His power and might in mitigating justice for these precious ones. (Psalm 142:7) Krygyzstan- Pray for the basic right of freedom to be restored to the women of Kyrgyzstan, who are imprisoned by their culture’s traditions. (Psalm 119:44-45) Day 8 Iran- Pray for Iran to stop providing funding, weapons, training and refuge to terrorist groups.

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(Psalm 37:30)

strategic challenge. (II Timothy 4:2)

Burkina Faso- Pray for poverty to be alleviated and for the government to have the resources necessary to fight terrorism and not become a safe haven for any terrorist groups. (Job 11:18)

Uzbekistan- Pray that people would be released from the cultural pressure to be Islamic and be afforded the freedom to explore and embrace Christianity as a way of life. (Isaiah 61:1)

Day 9 Mali- Pray that the Muslims of Mali will see Jesus Christ as more than just a prophet who was able to heal. Pray for them to realize His true identity as Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only Son who died for their sins so that they would have eternal life. (John 3:16,17) Azerbaijan- Pray for Azerbaijan to continue to take a tough stance against terrorists. Pray that the government of Azerbaijan would remain aggressive in apprehending and prosecuting members of suspected terrorist groups. (Psalm 11:7) Day 10 Benin- Pray for the people of Benin to be set free from bondage to Voodoo. Pray for Christians who have mixed this demonic religion with their worship of God to repent and return to the Lord. Pray the Kingdom of God will be firmly established in this land. (Joel 2:12,13) Indonesia- Pray that all of the terrorist training centers will be shut down. Pray that the terrorist will stop persecuting Christians, and pray that those responsible for sanctioning the terrorism will be brought to justice. (Psalm 9:19,20) Day 11 Laos- Pray for God to protect and sustain His Church in Laos amidst terrible persecution. Pray for Christian leaders, who are being specifically targeted by the authorities to escape the attacks, and spread the Salvation message to others. Pray the Kingdom of GOD will be firmly established in this land. (II Thessalonians 3:5) Western Sahara- Pray for fellowship and discipleship for the remnant of Christians. Pray for Believers to persevere as they face social pressures to abandon their faith. (II Timothy 4:17,18) Even in the desert, pray that the Lord will provide all of their need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19) Day 12 Egypt- Pray for Egyptian Christians to play a unique role in reaching other Muslim nations in the Middle East. Pray for vision and resources that will equip people for this

May 2009

Day 13 Nepal- Christians who share the Gospel with Hindus face imprisonment or possibly murder. Pray against this threat of violence and pray that Nepalese authorities will protect religious freedom for everyone. (Psalm 5:11,12) United Arab Emirates- Pray for protection and encouragement for the small number of Arab Background Believers in UAE. Pray for them to find fellowship and continue to serve Christ with boldness. (Acts 2:42) Pray for the Lord to use their transformed lives to give them an opportunity to share Christ with others. Pray for an unstoppable revival in this land, with multiple thousands of new Believers coming into the Kingdom of GOD in the next thirty days. Day 14 Albania- Most ethnic Albanians are Muslims and live outside Albania in Kosovo or Macedonia. Pray Albanians in Diaspora would have opportunities to hear lifechanging presentations of the Gospel, and accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior in record numbers. (Colossians 4:3) Morocco- Pray that there would be greater freedom for Christians to share their faith, and for protection for Muslims who want to find out more about Jesus Christ. Pray for the safety of Muslim Background Believers as they share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with nonBelievers. (I Thessalonians 2:2) Pray for Godly strategies to reach their neighbors and nation with His Good News. Day 15 Iraq- There is a small but growing number of Kurdish Christians in northern Iraq. Some have been martyred for following Jesus. Pray that the remaining Christians would be strong, united, protected, and expand the Kingdom of God on earth as it is in Heaven. (Revelation 12:11) Sri Lanka- For two decades, children have been kidnapped or recruited into the Tamil militia. These child soldiers suffer both mentally and physically as a result. Pray for God to end the kidnappings immediately. Pray for the healing of these children. Pray for their Salvation, and they will serve the Lord with their whole heart. Pray for all children and adults coping with the trauma of war to come to know Jesus Christ be healed,

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and lead their nation to Christ. (Deuteronomy 10:18)

houses to help spread Islam. Pray for Muslims in Brunei to meet Jesus Christ through dreams and visions, and pray that Brunei will be a 100% Christian state by 2020 and not an Islamic one. (Psalm 86:9)

Day 16 Israel- Pray that the influence of violent groups operating in neighboring countries will stop spreading into Israel. (2 Timothy 2:24–26) Tajikistan- Pray for Tajikistan to continue to take a firm stance against terrorist groups and they will receive the resources they need to accomplish this. (Psalm 34:15,16) Day 17

Lebanon- Pray that the terrorist groups Hezbollah, Al Qaeda and Fatah-Islam will be thrown into confusion, and will not be able to regroup, recruit, or have the capacity to be disruptive. (Psalm 55:9) Pray that each one of them will be saved, and reach their nation with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Day 21

China- Pray for the nation’s atheists to be awakened to their need for a relationship with Jesus, and for Believers to reach the 25 million Muslims in China with the Gospel of Jesus Christ in their lifetime. (Luke 1:79) Djibouti- Pray for Muslims in Djibouti to have visions and dreams of Jesus. Pray that they will encounter Christ. (Isaiah 55:6) Day 18 Yemen- Pray for Yemen to be more consistent and proactive in combating Al Qaeda-linked Islamic militants and local extremists. Pray for the government to allocate resources to stop terrorist financing immediately. (Psalm 94:12)

Qatar- There are small groups of expatriate Christians in Qatar. Pray that they would be able to boldly share their faith with others, and to encourage each other to expand God’s Kingdom on earth as it is in Heaven. (Colossians 2:2,3) Turkmenistan- Persecution against Christians is on the increase. Leaders are being assaulted and foreign Believers are sometimes deported. Pray that Christians will stand firm in their Christian convictions and pray Believers around the world will speak out against injustice in Tajikistan. (Proverbs 16:8) Pray the government will halt the approval of persecution of Believers and that it will bring those to justice who have persecuted Christians. Day 22

Vietnam- Pray that members of the Vietnamese underground church have wisdom to know how and where to meet. Pray that they will find creative ways—“God ideas”—to safely share their faith in this hostile environment, and that multiple thousands will come to know Jesus in the next thirty days. (Psalm 112:6-8) Day 19 Taiwan- The people of Taiwan have been slow to respond to the Gospel. Pray that God will raise up watchmen who will cry out for the salvation of Taiwan day and night, giving Him no rest until the nation fully serves Christ. (Isaiah 62:6) Bahrain- Islam is the official religion in Bahrain. The main division is between the Sunni Muslims, the ruling minority, and the majority of the population, who are much poorer Shi’a Muslims. Pray for Bahrain to abolish Shari’a law, and truly allow freedom of religion. Pray for an unstoppable revival in this land in which everyone will accept Christ as Savior and Lord. (Deuteronomy 32:34) Day 20 Brunei- Muslims are hoping for Brunei to be a “pure” Islamic state by 2020. They are offering incentives such as jobs and

May 2009

Christians.

Ethiopia- Persecution against Christians is on the increase. Leaders are being assaulted and foreign Believers are sometimes deported. Pray that Christians will stand firm in their Christian convictions and pray Believers around the world will speak out against injustice in Tajikistan. (Proverbs 16:8) Pray the government will halt the approval of persecution of Believers and that it will bring those to justice who have persecuted

Myanmar (Burma)- The military regime has tried to wipe out the Church, but it continues to grow. Pray that Christians will remain faithful to God as they are persecuted. Pray the military will allow the Church to exist in Myanmar peacefully and without attack. Pray those who have persecuted Believers will be quickly brought to justice. (I Corinthians 4:2) Day 23 Chad- Muslim nations are sending missionaries to Chad and many mosques are being built. Pray that Christians will be equipped to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and revival will come to Chad and all Muslim missionaries will be saved, and become a part of the movement to being the entire nation of

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Chad to Christ. (Psalm 5:11)

coming the Lord in the next thirty days. (Matthew 9:37,38)

Algeria- Authorities have closed churches and Christians have been charged for distributing Christian literature. Pray the remaining Algerian churches will be able to stay open, expand throughout the entire nation and to other nations, and to freely preach the Word of God Pray all Algerians will be saved. (Isaiah 40:8) Day 24 Libya- Pray for God to defeat the plans of the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group, Al Qaeda and other terrorist groups. (John 16:33) Pray the Kingdom of God will be firmly established in this land. Malaysia- The growing Islamic influence in Malaysia could make it harder for Malay Muslims to hear the truth about Jesus Christ. Pray that Christians will find opportunities to bravely and urgently share the Gospel with their neighbors and nation. (Ephesians 1:13,14) Pray the Lord will use this strategic nation to mightily advance His Kingdom in all of the nations surrounding Malaysia. Day 25 Oman- Pray that Oman’s Muslim population would have a revelation of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice and love for them, and they will fully accept Him as Lord and Savior. (I Peter 3:18) Kazakhstan- Pray for true religious freedom in Kazakhstan. Pray that Christians will have wisdom and God’s protection in gathering together for worship. (Psalm 119:114) Pray for unstoppable growth of the Church in Kazakhstan with multiple thousands accepting the Lord as their Savior in the next thirty days. Day 26 Tunisia- Many Muslims travel to Kairouan in search of spiritual help or healing. It is considered the fourth most holy city in Islam. Pray for them to have an encounter with Christ during this pilgrimage. (Numbers 12:6) Pray they receive Jesus Christ as Lord, and become active in expanding the Kingdom of God in Tunisia. Cambodia- Pray for God to open the eyes and minds of Theravada Buddhists to see the light of the Gospel of the glory of Christ. (II Corinthians 4:4) Day 27 Turkey- Few of Turkey’s Muslims have ever heard the Gospel and only 15 of Turkey’s 80 provinces have a Christian church. Pray for laborers for this harvest field, and pray for an unstoppable revival in this nation with multiple thousands

May 2009

North Korea- Pray for Underground Believers to be protected and to be strong and courageous while under extreme scrutiny. (II Thessalonians 3:3, Psalm 91) Pray for the Kingdom of God to be firmly established in this spiritually stony and hard land. Day 28 Somalia- Pray for God to defeat the plans of Al Qaeda, al Shabaab and other terrorist groups operating in Somalia. (Psalm 92:11) Pakistan- Pray God would root out all terrorist groups in Pakistan, and that it will no longer be a safe haven for terrorist leaders. Pray Pakistani leaders will take decisive action against terrorist groups and the nation (Isaiah 5:18) Pray the terrorist would quickly be brought to justice. Pray for the safety of Christian workers and their families. Pray there will be an immediate end to the bombing and destruction of schools. Pray the Believers will be strong and courageous, and for an unstoppable revival in this land with multiple thousands coming to accept Christ in the next thirty days. Pray the Kingdom of God will be firmly established in this land. Day 29 Nigeria- Pray for peace, reconciliation, and healing between people of the North (Muslim) and South (Christian). Pray that Shari’a law would be toppled and not divide the nation. (Psalm 140:7,8) Pray for all acts of terrorism to halt immediately. Maldives- Christians in the Maldives, though few, are carefully monitored. They are not allowed to meet together and must read the Bible secretively. Pray their faith will be strong, and they will sense the Lord’s comfort and His shield of protection around them. (II Timothy 1:8-10) Pray the Kingdom of God will be firmly established in this land and all persecution of Believers will halt immediately. Jordan- The majority of the citizens of Jordan are Islamic, yet a third of the population has expressed interest in finding out more about Jesus Christ. Pray that Christians will find ways to sensitively share the Gospel with Muslims without retaliation from anyone. (Colossians 4:5,6) Pray for unity in the Church, and together, Believers will be able to reach the entire region with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Senegal- Senegal is in desperate need of more Christian workers to share the Gospel with the Senegalese. Pray laborers with a heart for the Kingdom of God, evangelism, and discipleship will be trained and sent into this needy mission field. (Philemon :6) Pray for an unstoppable revival in this land where the whole

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nation will know Jesus as Savior and Lord.

faith, reach their nation with the Gospel, and effectively fulfill the Great Commissions. (Romans 15:5)

Day 30 Eritrea- Pray that even in suffering, Eritrea’s Christian prisoners may experience the presence and love of Christ and be strengthened and empowered by the Spirit of God to both endure suffering and radiate His love towards their tormentors. (Ephesians 6:10,11) Pray that revival will break out in the prisons and that all of the prison workers and non-saved prisoners will accept Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Tibet- Ask God to raise up prayer teams who will be committed to pray for spiritual breakthrough in Tibet. (Ephesians 6:18) Pray the angels of the Lord will do warfare on behalf of the Kingdom of God in this land. Pray the Kingdom of God will be established in Tibet as it is in Heaven. Syria- Although Christians are tolerated in Syria and can meet together, any attempt to witness to Muslims is seen as a threat to the government. Ask God to give Believers wisdom to know how best to share their faith in this environment. (I Peter 3:15,16) Pray for an unstoppable move of God to dwell in this land. Pray countless Syrians accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior in the next thirty days. Pray for all Believers to be properly discipled in the ways of the Kingdom of God

Gaza Strip- Pray for Christians in the Gaza Strip to depend on the Lord for their security. Pray for their spiritual growth and that they will continue to be light and salt to their Muslim neighbors. (Matthew 5:15) West Bank- Pray for Christians in the Gaza Strip to depend on the Lord for their security. Pray for their spiritual growth and that they will continue to be light and salt to their Muslim neighbors. (Matthew 5:15) Window International Network Pray for WIN as new resources are being developed to inform, equip, and mobilize our WIN prayer partners to strategically pray for the 10/40 Window. The Praying Through The Window 9: Global Terrorism and World Religions prayer calendar is being revised, and learning tools for WindowKids are being developed, including a revised kid-friendly prayer calendar for WindowKids. Pray for these resources will be developed, marketed, and distributed in the manner the Lord has planned.

Mongolia- There are Christians meeting in nearly every Mongolia province. Pray that Believers will be properly discipled in the Ways of the Kingdom of God. Leading them in the ways to have a deep personal relationship with Him. Pray that they will be both hearers and doers of the Word of God. (Acts 13:52) Day 31 East Timor- Pray that terrorist groups would not find East Timor to be a safe haven or a fertile breeding ground for terrorist cells. (Jeremiah 1:10) The Gambia- Pray that Gambian Christians will receive the proper discipling they need in the ways of the Kingdom of God to mature in their

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May 2009

10/40 WindoW Prayer Focus: THe iMPacT oF TerrorisM on cHiLdren

Praise rePorT: s iran- cHrisTian raLLy in suPPorT To oF converTs oPPose aPosTasy LaW

Praise rePorT: orissa- suPreMe courT orders ProTecTion oF cHrisTians in orissa sTaTe

WindoWKids™: seneGaL- HyMnie’s Prayer requesT For God’s cHiLdren in seneGaL

For Prayer PoinTs every 10/40 WindoW naTion

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www.globaldayofprayer.com

ibetan exiles have stepped up demonstrations since March 10, 2009, the 50th anniversary of Beijing’s crushing of a Tibetan uprising that led to the Dalai Lama’s flight into exile in the northern Indian town of Dharmsala, according to the Associated Press (AP). On April 13, 2009, students protested a Chinese court ruling in early April that handed down death sentences to two Tibetans accused of starting deadly fires in last year’s anti-government riots in Tibet. It was the first report of death sentences given out for the deadly riots. “There is an immense crackdown and brutality being imposed on the Tibetan people inside Tibet. We have lost everything, our home, family, friends, relatives and even our basic rights to live as human beings,” Dorjee Tsetan, a Tibetan student who participated in protests, told the AP. Although Tibet technically is autonomous, its current government is directed from Beijing. The Dalai Lama, Tibetan Buddhists’ spiritual and political leader, lives in exile in India. Thousands of troops and paramilitary police are said to have been deployed in Tibetan-populated regions amid fears of fresh violence during the sensitive anniversary period. Chinese officials have vowed to crack down on criminal activities in Tibet’s border area that pose a threat to China’s sovereignty and government, United Press International said. Tibet is mostly Buddhist (80%), and Christians comprise only 0.2% of its population. Tibetan Buddhists believe in reincarnation.

Tibet is not ranked on Open Doors’ 2008 World Watch List of nations where Christians are persecuted for their faith, but China is ranked No. 10. According to Window International Network’s Praying Through The Window 9 prayer calendar, the day of prayer for Tibet is on day 30.

Pray for:

✚✚ Ask God to encourage and protect the small number of Christians in Tibet. Pray that these Believers will have opportunities to share Christ with their own people. ✚✚ Ask the Lord to raise up strong local churches among the Tibetans. ✚✚ Pray against the spirit of Buddhism that is keeping the Tibetan people bound. Pray that God will set Buddhists free from the bondage of fear in Tibet. ✚✚ Ask God to raise up prayer teams whose prayers will begin breaking up the spiritual soil in Tibet through intercession. Pray the doors of Tibet will swing open wide to accept missionaries, and the Kingdom of God will be firmly established in this land. ✚✚ Ask the Lord to reveal Himself to the Tibetans through dreams and visions, and they will accept Him as Savior and Lord. ✚✚ Pray that the demonic forces that are using the leaders of the Communist Party of China like puppets will be toppled, and that Tibetans will be set free to worship the Lord. Pray that Chinese leaders will experience conversion to Christianity. Pray The Bible, 1 Timothy 2:1–4 (NIV). Sources: United Press International, the Associated Press, the British Broadcasting Corporation, Christian Post, 24-7 Prayer, Operation World, Open Doors

Ti b e t a n s p r o t e s t C h i n e s e r u l e

May 2009

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Window International Network’s (WIN) 10/40 Window Reporter will explore elections in the 10/40 Window that will be critical for embattled Christians in those nations.

he next general elections in India was to be held in five phases beginning in mid-April and counting of votes will start on May 13, with the results due to be announced on May 16, the Associated Press reported. Meanwhile, the presidential election in Afghanistan is set for August 20. India, the world’s largest democracy, has a long election season as more than 700 million votes need to be collected. The Church in India has called upon all people, especially Christians, to vote in the elections, according to Assist News Service. The leadership, which met in National Consultations in New Delhi in late February, reaffirmed its faith in democracy. Joseph D’souza, president of the All India Christian Council, which was part of the Church coalition, added: “We encourage Christians in India and around the world to pray for the coming election. Pray for the preservation of democratic institutions and religious freedom and the rights of the minorities and other marginalized sections of society and for a terror free India.” Displaced Christians in Orissa living under constant threat

May 2009

of Hindutva violence wonder if they will even get to vote, let alone be able to vote freely, according to the World Evangelical Alliance Religious Liberty Commission (WEARLC). Hindutva-advocate Manoj Pradhan has been nominated by the Hindu nationalist opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as their candidate from the communally-split G Udayagiri assembly constituency. Pradhan is currently in prison on multiple charges including incitement, murder and arson, arising from the anti-Christian campaign in Kandhamal in August-September 2008. The BJP has nominated Ashok Sahu as its candidate from the Kandhamal Lok Sabha (federal parliament) constituency, according to WEARLC. According to Sahu, Hindutva—which advocates the philosophy of opposing religions other than Hinduism, particularly Christianity and Islam—as it’s imposed in Kandhamal is the model for the whole country.

security situation for Indian Christians is most serious, particularly those in remote Hindutva strongholds like Kandhamal. In just tragic five years, the ruling United Progressive Alliance government has permitted Hindutva to advance unchallenged, WEARLC said.

Pray for:

• God to provide moderating forces to hold the balance of power in India, so that Hindutva cannot freely advance in the country. • God to raise up voices in society, government, media and the Church to challenge religious intolerance and hatred, and to support religious freedom across India. • Christians to be able to vote without threats, retaliation or intimidation in the India elections. • Cry out to God to end the silence about the persecution of Christians in India. • The Church worldwide to speak up for religious liberty and for the victims of persecution in India.

These nominations clearly expose the fascist ideology and violent agenda of the BJP, according to WEARLC. The

The 10/40 Window Reporter 17

Hello, Prayer Warriors! Since we visited last, I have visited the country of Burkina Faso, known as “the land of honest people.” On my journey, I met a precious African friend, Dakarai, a child who is indeed an upright person. The story of how we met is very special, and I brought him here today so that we could share our story with you!

Hymnie:

Dakarai, tell our friends a little bit about yourself.

Dakarai:

Hello! I am 9 years old and I am the oldest son of 5 children. My family lives in Burkina Faso. I went to school when I was younger, and I go sometimes when I am not helping my father in the rice fields. I am strong, and I like to work hard. I like to help my family to have what they need.

Hymnie:

Yes, you do! Working in rice fields is very tough work! Dakarai, what happens when the rains don’t fall on your crops?

Dakarai: This is very hard for our people. Rice is a crop which needs a lot of water to grow well. If the rains don’t come, then our crop is not good, and we will not have enough food to feed our families in the communities. We started praying to Jesus for more rain just before I met you, Hymnie! Hymnie:

Yes, I remember. I was fluttering so fast over Burkina Faso when I heard you crying. From my bird’s eye view, I scoped out the area, and found that it was you, Dakarai. You had been crying because you were afraid that your brothers and sisters would not have enough to eat. Because of that, you knew your father may have to go far away to find work and food. Then what happened?

Dakarai:

Yes, I was so sad. I was afraid that my family would be in trouble. But then I heard someone singing, and it was you, Hymnie! You were humming a song about how Jesus knows exactly what my family needs. He loves us and takes care of us. We are his children, and He will never leave us. I felt so much better. Thank you, Hymnie, for helping my heart to hope in Jesus with songs of worship!

Hymnie:

Dakarai, this is the most amazing part of your story. You have to tell our friends about the miracle that Jesus did for your family!

Dakarai:

Drawing by Kayla Purcell

May 2009

Yes, I love Jesus so much. He heard my prayers. He saw my tears for my family. By the next afternoon, the rains came on our fields. The ground soaked up the rain, as though it had been very thirsty and it was getting a cool drink. The rains didn’t come over all the towns, but

The 10/40 Window Reporter 18

just on our fields. Heavy, heavy rains. Rains that brought life back to our crops and will help us to get through one more year of farming. Many of our people do not yet know Jesus, but now I can always tell them to trust in Jesus. Jesus cares for us so much. Jesus sent the rains and Jesus saved my family. Our neighbors think that “the god of rain” blessed us, but we know the Truth. We know that Jesus is Faithful to make sure we have all we need.

urkinabes to know Jesus

nderstanding that Jesus loves every person

ain for all the crops

ids in West Africa to be strong and healthy

Hymnie:

Dakarai, it makes my heart happy to hear of your miracle. That is what your name means, right? “Happy.” And you are happy; not just because you and your family are doing well, but because Jesus is in your heart!

Dakarai: Yes, I am so happy. I know that my Father in Heaven will always be there for me. I want all my neighbors to know about Him, and I want all the children reading my story to know that Jesus hears their prayers. He loves each of them so much!

ncrease in Christian missionaries

o families to be separated to find work

Hymnie:

What a miracle story, Dakarai. Every time you tell your story, more people will start to believe in Jesus. That is the greatest miracle of all! Please pray for our young friends, like Dakarai, in Burkina Faso!

ll children to hear about Jesus

avor and blessings on Burkinabe people

ll children to always be treated well

trength for Christians to be courageous

pportunities for all children to be educated

May 2009

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