‘Currently in our country, Nicaragua, the general population is under repression, direct and indirect threats and persecution. They have silenced us and our voices…’ – Nicaraguan defender of freedom of religion or belief.
Sadly, there has been no positive change to the situation in Nicaragua over the last year. Under the leadership of President Daniel Ortega and his wife, Vice-President Rosario Murillo, violations of freedom of religion or belief have continued to grow – in both number and severity. Hope seems hard to come by as the stories of individuals paint a dire picture.
However, we believe in the power of prayer, and so we lift up this nation with hope and faith.
Find out more at csw.org.uk/nicaragua
Sunday 1 September
Pray that the international community will speak up and strengthen independent voices speaking out about the situation in Nicaragua. May links be made between those inside and outside the country, standing in solidarity for the defence of human rights.
Monday 2 September
Many people, including religious leaders, have been separated from their communities and loved ones over the past year due to arbitrary detentions, forced exile or migration. Pray that all affected would find comfort in the shadow of his wings, and that the disaster will soon pass (Psalm 57:1).
Tuesday 3 September
As of January, over 600,000 Nicaraguans have fled the country, some under threat. Their journeys can be fraught with danger. Ask God to have mercy and keep them safe from harm. May he pave their way with peace, and change the situation so that no more Nicaraguans feel they have no choice but to abandon their country.
Wednesday 4 September
Civil society networks continue to work underground in Nicaragua to document and inform the world of human rights violations. Ask the Holy Spirit to uphold them, reminding them that the Lord sets a table in the presence of enemies (Psalm 23). Pray that they would be able to carry out their work without government harassment or fear of being detained.
Thursday 5 September
Pray for the political prisoners, including many Christians, both Roman Catholic and Protestant. In some cases, they are blocked from receiving the medication they need or they aren’t allowed to keep their medicine refrigerated. Some have experienced serious infections due to the unsanitary conditions in prison and lack of medicine.
Friday 6 September
Conditions in La Esperanza Women’s Prison are poor. Cells lined with bunk beds hold up to 75 prisoners, and there are shortages of drinking water, beds, medicine and medical care. What’s more, political prisoners aren’t allowed a Bible or any writing materials. Pray for the release of all political prisoners and improved conditions in the prisons.
Saturday 7 September
Lord Jesus, you are the one who leads justice through to victory (Matthew 12:19-21). You are the God of miracles, who is making all things new. Bring freedom where freedom seems impossible! Awaken the consciences of men and women in positions of power, and hold them to account for their actions. Amen.