Profile : Indonesia

Description

The world's largest Archipelago, Indonesia achieved independence from the Netherlands in 1949. The economic crisis in 1997 was the spark that led to an end to President Suharto's rule after nearly 30 years in power. The transition to a popularly elected government has been difficult with considerable unrest. The government has a considerable way to go in addressing corruption, economic and regional issues to improve the quality of life for Indonesia's people.

Indonesia is the world's largest Muslim population with over 200 million adherents.

The government mandates that each citizen adhere to one of the five recognised religions: Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Protestant Christianity or Roman Catholicism. While this supports a pluralistic society it has also brought many animists to consider the claims of the gospel.

There has been a move since the 1990s to Islamise Indonesia. Mosques have been built and Muslims have moved to Christian-majority areas.

The last decade has seen a number of attacks on churches. Rising levels of persecution in the 1990s encouraged greater unity amongst Christians.

Rapid growth of the church has outstripped the supply of full-time workers so spiritually mature leaders, lay-workers and disciplers are needed.

Missionaries

• Andrew Buchanan
• Ian and Narelle Hadfield

Prayer Points

• Pray that many Indonesians will find freedom and salvation in the gospel of Christ.

• Pray for the provision of locally-written literature appropriate to Indonesians.

• Pray that churches in Indonesia would be gripped by the challenge of hundreds of unreached peoples in their own country

• Pray that the government will have the strength to address corruption, economic and social issues to improve the quality of living for Indonesia's people.

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Opportunities