*ARCHIVED OCTOBER 2007 // CLICK HERE FOR CURRENT DATA

Bahrain (click here to view a satellite map)

Bahrain, Arabian Peninsula

Population: 688,345
Christians: <1%
Dominant Religion: Shia Islam (Sunni Ruler)
Persecution Ranking: Not Ranked
Political Leader: King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa
Religious Freedom in Constitution: Yes

In the Gulf there is a small group of islands linked to Saudi Arabia by a causeway. This is the nation of Bahrain, literally meaning two seas. Bahrain nationals are made up of two Muslims groups. Although Shi'ite Muslims have the larger number at 65%, it is the Sunni, at 35%, that hold most of the political and economic power. This results in significant tensions between these two communities. Foreign workers comprise one third of the population and have over 40 Christian fellowships worshipping in many languages. Three of these worship in the local Arabic language and are attended by Christians from Egypt, Jordan, and elsewhere. Like the nation of Kuwait, national Believers are mostly descendents of Christians from Jordan, Lebanon and Syria who were living in Bahrain when the state was founded in the 1970s. They enjoy freedom of worship. Others who choose to follow Jesus, however, face intense family pressure.
Prayer Points

	Pray that expatriate Christian workers, both Western and non-Western, will be a blessing to the Christian Church in Bahrain.
	Pray for greater acceptance of religious choice in society and a reduction in family pressure against those who choose to follow Jesus Christ.
	Pray that tensions between Sunnis and Shi'ites would be reduced.

Dear LORD of all creation, bless the efforts of the Emir to bring economic development and improved human rights. Bless the efforts of his wife, Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, in implementing a national strategy for the advancement of women. Reduce the tensions within Bahrain. Uphold the expatriate fellowships, providing gifted pastors and teachers. And may Your presence be evident to those who choose to follow Jesus Christ according to your promises in Scripture. Amen.

ADDITIONAL INFO ON BAHRAIN-

• View additional info on the Joshua Project site
• Praying Through The Window 6
• Praying Through The Window 7
• 2006 Weekly Prayer Points