Libya

Leader: Colonel Muammar Gaddafi
Population: 6.4 million (173,000 Christians)
Main Religion: Islam
Government: Authoritarian state
World Watch Rank: 25

Libya adheres to Islamic law and all citizens are Sunni Muslims 'by definition'. Converting from Islam brings social pressure and ostracism. Most Libyan Christians are forced to believe in secret and are afraid to meet with other believers. Small Christian communities do exist, mostly consisting of sub-Saharan migrants and Western expatriate workers. However, the large network of secret police makes it difficult to organise church activities. The government criminalises evangelism and forbids missionary activity. Many expat churches have seen their permits withdrawn.

Please Pray:

• Thank God for the small groups of Christians gathering in houses. Ask Him to give them strength
• That people in remote areas will tune in to Christian radio and TV broadcasts
• For wisdom for young believers sharing their new faith with their families.