Brazil: Protests catch authorities on the back foot
On June 13th the NY Times reported, ‘Protests by an increasingly forceful movement against increases in bus fares shook Brazil’s two largest cities on Thursday night, the fourth time in a week that activists have taken to the streets in demonstrations that have been marked by clashes with security forces.’ Since then the violence has steadily worsened to encompass more than 100,000 people sweeping through at least a dozen major cities on Monday night. Protesters are calling for better public services and an end to corruption. With organisers planning further protests the authorities appear to be uncertain what to do next. Police in some regions cracked down hard.
Pray: for President Dilma Rousseff to recognize what steps to take in addressing corruption, and ending the demonstrations peacefully. (Ps.17:19-20)
More: http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/jun/18/brazil-protests-authorities-back-foot
Afghanistan: Taliban open door to peace talks
The Taliban set the stage for peace talks with envoys of President Hamid Kharzai and the US, establishing a venue and an opening to the Afghan leadership just hours after Kabul took over nationwide security responsibilities. US Taliban discussions in Qatar on Thursday follow the Taliban opening a political office on Tuesday in Doha and making a gesture toward renouncing links to international terrorism. Until now the Taliban have publicly refused to negotiate with Kabul's representatives, dismissing Mr. Kharzai as an American ‘puppet.’ On Tuesday the insurgent group said its representatives in Doha would meet Afghans ‘in due appropriate time.’ The Taliban announced the office opening (the result of lengthy behind-the-scenes negotiations involving the US, Pakistan, Mr. Kharzai and Qatar) shortly after the US-led coalition formally transferred the security lead to Afghan forces. The coalition will now shift to a support and advisory role.
Pray: for this important step toward reconciliation to move forward without cultural, constitutional, political or religious hindrances. Pray for an end to verbal and physical warfare. (Ac.2:40)
More: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324520904578553300053268208.html?mod=WSJWorld__RIGHTTopStories
Canada: Government prayer Sunday
On 30th June Churches across Canada will enter into their 7th annual ‘Government Prayer Sunday’ and unite in intercession for their government, their Christian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and the provinces. A number of the provinces have become battlegrounds needing national and international prayer support. Manitoba has proposed anti-bullying legislation, Ontario has radical sex-education and Quebec has euthanasia legislation and the proposed Charter of Secularism. June is when the big ‘Pride’ marches occur in Vancouver and Toronto. We are asked to pray for the love of God to be revealed to the Gay/Lesbian community. May the Canadian Church respond with bold love while holding to the biblical position of sexuality. Pray also for First Peoples' Leaders to have wisdom, grace and protection. Pray also for the Church to have a garment of praise settle upon them and for new strength and anointing as they lift the name of Jesus over every region on the 30th.
Pray: For the Lord's presence in all government decisions, pray also for the Canadian Church to experience a fresh level of unity in prayer and declaration. (Ps.18:13-14)
Bangladesh: 100+ Muslims attack Christians
Two recent incidents have left priests and seminary students severely beaten. On June 5th Muslim extremists went to Tumilia mission and attacked Fr. Abel when he came out of his room. Some say they went with the intention of robbing the property, however International Christian Concern confirm it was ‘targeted persecution by Muslims on Christians.’ On June 6th a Muslim man died from a heart attack during a conflict regarding trespassing by Muslims on Christian land to steal mangos. Blaming the Christians for the man's death, the Muslims attacked the entire village. Two villagers fled to the Catholic Church's mission compound. A Muslim mob of 100+ armed with weapons stormed the compound. The police arrested some Christians but did not take any action against the Muslims who were trespassing on Catholic land. The priests are afraid to do anything against the perpetrators. Muslim extremists are protected by the Muslim ruling party.
Pray: for the Bangladesh Christians living without security from the government, pray God’s protection over them. Pray for an end to attacks on religious minorities in Bangladesh. (Ps.102:28)
More: http://www.charismanews.com/world/39906-hundreds-of-muslims-attack-christians-in-bangladesh
