The African Diaspora
Population: It is estimated that nearly 19 million Africans live off the continent of Africa. These men, women, and children are the African Diaspora, some of whom are probably your near neighbors. About 3 Million African Diaspora live in North America, 5 million in Asia, and another 11 million live in Europe.
Location and Background: The African Diaspora live around the globe, and their histories and reasons for leaving the continent are diverse. Some are refugees, asylum seekers, economic migrants, students and professionals, undocumented immigrants, and tragically, others are victims of human trafficking.
History, Culture, and Religion: Because the African Diaspora come from Africa’s 54 individual countries as well as many of the continent’s outlying islands, each group’s history, culture and religion varies widely.
A Unique Opportunity: Many of the African Diaspora come from nations that are closed to missionary outreach, so their presence in places like Europe, Australia, and the Americas presents a unique opportunity to share the Good News with men and women who may have never heard it in their homelands, and who may one day to return their nation of origin transformed by Christ and eager to share their new hope with their friends and family.
Summer Camp
African Diaspora: This summer, workers serving among Arab diaspora communities partnered with other ministries to help with several youth camps. Many young people heard clear teaching from the Bible and had opportunities to ask questions and consider the truth of the Gospel. Pray that the Holy Spirit will continue working in the hearts and minds of those who heard. Ask God to help the seeds planted during the camps take root and grow. Many of these young people are returning to families and communities where following Jesus may be unfamiliar or difficult. Pray that God will work through these young people in their homes, drawing parents, siblings, and extended family members toward Himself. Please also pray for young believers who are navigating complicated family circumstances. Some are seeking to grow in their faith while facing barriers to church involvement and Christian community. Pray for wise and trustworthy believers to walk alongside them. May the Lord strengthen a new generation of believers from Arab diaspora communities and use their lives to bring the hope of Christ into their families and communities.
Welcoming the Outsiders
African Diaspora: Pray that local churches in Spain would recognize the opportunity God has placed on their doorstep by bringing unreached African people groups into their communities. Ask the Lord to raise up believers who will welcome them, build genuine friendships, and faithfully share the hope of Jesus.
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“Whether they are economic migrants, international students, undocumented immigrants, refugees or asylum seekers, one fact remains the same – They are the new neighbors our churches are called to love.”
