PRAY FOR ERITREA

Eritrea is one of the least developed countries in the world. Isaias Afwerki has served as president since its independence in 1993. Eritrea has never had a functioning constitution nor elections. Isaias is the sole power in the country, controlling its judiciary and military. The government's human rights record is among the worst in the world. Eritrea recognizes three Christian denominations (Eritrean Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Lutheran). Anyone who follows Jesus outside of the sanctioned churches is subject to arrest, torture, imprisonment, and eventual death. Even those within the recognized denominations are targets for surveillance and arrest.

Evangelical churches must meet secretly. The government infiltrates underground churches and imprisons their leaders. Up to 1000 believers are in prison, including several top leaders. Imprisoned Christians are not given a trial or allowed to see their families. The conditions inside these “prisons” are some of the harshest in the world. Christian prisoners have only meager rations and are held in shipping containers in extreme desert conditions for years. When long-term prisoners are released, they are blacklisted by the government. Following Jesus in Eritrea comes at an incredible cost, but courageous believers continue to walk with Him.