The Islanders (Indian Ocean)
Pray for the Islanders hailing from the islands of the Indian Ocean, with sizeable communities also found in France and Madagascar. Nearly all Islanders are Muslims. Those who have chosen to follow J’sus tend to live isolated lives and many experience pressure and persecution from their families, villages and government.
2 Thess 3:1 “Finally, brothers, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honoured, just as it was with you.”
Pray that God would move in power and reveal himself to Islanders- young and old, male and female. Pray that He would draw families and communities to Himself that they might support each other on the journey. Pray that believers would be transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit and that they would be strong and courageous.
Population: 700,000
Location and background: Islanders live on a group of islands off the coast of Africa. They boast picture-postcard beaches, dramatic volcano peaks and an array of rare wildlife. Alongside these are found corrupt governance, political bickering, failing infrastructure, and a sputtering economy. Many seek a better life abroad, ending up living in high rise flats in dangerous neighbourhoods, working long hours to send back generous support to family members still on the islands.
History: The islands have a colourful history steeped in slavery and trade with the East African coast, Arabia and the Persian Gulf. More recently the Islands have suffered 20 coups or attempted coups since independence. Today it blends the warmth of its African location with the Arab traditions of its first settlers, alongside an increasingly strong Western influence.
Culture: Though people are increasingly moving to the capital and seeking opportunities overseas, an Islander’s identity is still firmly linked to their village. Islanders are proud of their religious and cultural heritage, and a strong marriage tradition featuring large, lavish weddings keeps home ties strong. Each island has its own dialect and though French is the language of education the local language is very much the language of the home and of the heart.
Religion: The Island National Anthem declares that they are one people, one blood and one religion, and with 99.9% of the population being Muslims it is not far from the truth. The Island’s spiritual roots intermingle the Islam of the early Arab traders and settlers with African spiritism. The combination plays out in a Muslim routine of life, while still seeking to live lives that appease the demons or “djinns” that harass them. Spirit possession and demonic affliction is common, especially amongst women.
Latest Prayer Updates:
Hope of Jesus for Suffering and Uncertainty
Islanders: Please pray for the Islander people, especially those who are facing suffering, loss, and uncertainty. Earlier this year, a devastating bus accident caused by a landslide claimed several lives. One survivor traveled abroad for specialized medical treatment and has now returned home, where she continues to receive therapy. During a conversation at the hospital, a team member was able to ask whether the experience had caused her to think differently about life, death, and faith. This opened an opportunity to share about the sure and certain hope we have in Jesus and the promise of life to come. Please pray that this conversation will continue and that she will become increasingly open to hearing about Jesus. There are also families facing heartbreaking medical challenges. A very young mother is caring for her infant, who has a severe disability. Please pray for this mother as she comes to terms with what her child’s future may hold, and ask God to meet her with compassion, strength, and hope. Pray that, in the midst of suffering and uncertainty, Islander families will encounter the love of Christ. Pray for opportunities for believers to speak about the hope found in Jesus and for hearts to be open to the gospel.
New Testament Milestone
Islanders: Praise the Lord there is much to celebrate! On Sunday, August 30, a book dedication is being planned to honor the printing of a volume containing nine books of the Bible in one of the Island Heart-languages. Please pray for the final preparations this week and for wisdom for everyone involved in planning the dedication. Ask that this dedication would be a joyful celebration of God’s faithfulness and the work of many people who have made this translation possible. We know that God’s Word has the power to transform lives, bring people to faith in Christ and strengthen His Church. We give thanks to God for the privilege of seeing His Word made available in another language. Pray that these Scriptures would go far beyond the dedication service and find their way into homes, churches, and hearts. Most importantly, we pray that the Word would be well received and treasured by Islanders! (Hebrews 4:12 AMP “For the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart.”)
VIDEO FEATURE: Walking in Shadow
A glimpse into the Muslim mindset of coastal Africa, and the church’s responsibility to pray, learn, and engage.
