Day 11
Laos
Christian relief and development organization, World Vision, runs a program called iREAD in Laos. The program, funded by the Japanese government, supports children and teachers to increase literacy and comprehension rates. The program was welcomed during the COVID-19 pandemic when many schools closed, and children’s education suffered. Pray for children to grow in their confidence to read. Pray that good education will open doors for poor families and communities. Praise God that Jesus’ birth brings hope for the future (The Bible, Proverbs 23:18).
Source: World Vision Helps Children in Laos Improve Reading Skills (Missions Box)
Laos is one of the world’s few remaining communist states, enduring as a one-party socialist Marxist republic supported financially by China and Vietnam. Economic progress was being made with improved poverty, education, and health outcomes, but the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly set back the pace of this growth. At one point, persecution of Christian Believers was mandated by the federal government; however, their stance has changed over the last two decades. National legislation to protect churches has been introduced, but only for the one approved protestant denomination. Persecution of the Church is localized, often driven by society and local government officials who abuse their power and position. Despite persecution, the Christian community grows in number and boldness. 32 percent of the population are under the age of 15, so children’s and youth ministry is very important.
