Latvia

Latvia has long and deep pagan roots and is among the last European countries to be Christianized (13th Century). Latvians were early supporters of Luther and much of the population converted to Lutheranism. 

The country was in many years a part of the Soviet Union. Since the independence the society has experienced a lot of new challenges such as problems with alcohol, drugs, a rapidly growing sex trade, high abortions rates, corruption and the country has the world’s fourth highest suicide rate. 

The churches of Latvia were harshly persecuted under both the Nazis and the Communists.  Although 60% belong to a Christian confession, only a small minority actually practice their faith. Since religious freedom in 1988 there hase been a lot of different religious expressions.  The spread of cults, both Christian and pagan, is a challenge to Christianity. 

Because of challenges to biblical morality in society the different churches have developed a very strong unity. Pray that the leaders of these churches may stay strong together in prayer and worship and that this unity might reverse the moral tide in society. 

Pray for:

• Pray for righteousness, hope, healthy morality and heavenly values into the society. Pray for strong testimonies of people getting free from drugs and alcohol addiction. Pray for a changed society.
• Thank God for the unity the churches have developed, and pray they will be even more united in prayer and worship. Pray that they together will reach out for the people of Latvia and change the direction of the country. 
• Pray that the mission vision will be put more on fire, so the gospel will be reached to the less-reached places in Latvia. 
• Thank God for the many ministries and summer camps for youth and children, and pray for more workers with the vision to reach young people. 

---