Congregations are continuing to embrace what it means to be followers of Christ in the marketplace of their lives outside Sunday services, despite what is happening in the Nigerian economy.

They are heeding Grace & Light’s call to live as Christians every day when our volunteer teams visit their churches to share the gospel, counsel and test for HIV.

“This is in churches new to us and those we have visited before,” explains international coordinator Tassie Ghata. “During repeat visits we speak with people who say they are continuing to live changed lives and are not returning to their old ways.”

Tassie adds that, because of the dire economic situation in Nigeria, many people are turning back to traditional religion in the hope their ancestors can protect them, as well as continuing church attendance.

But those who have recommitted their lives to Christ during our visits are not doing so as they realise they can trust in God and he meets their needs.

Seven volunteer teams were active between July and December, visiting 39 churches in total, sharing the gospel of righteousness with 11,191 people and testing 1,162 for HIV. Of those who tested, five were positive. 

The majority (81%) chose to be open about their status and join voluntary savings and accountability groups. Significant numbers rededicated their lives to Christ (2,148 people) or made a first commitment (173 people).

The active teams between July and December were Jalingo, Jos, Lafia, Mangu, Obudu, Yola and Zing.

Prayer Requests

Please pray for:

• People who have recommitted their lives to Christ, or made a first commitment; that they will grow in relationship with God
• Church leaders as they support congregation members who are losing jobs and struggling to feed their families
• People living with HIV/AIDS who depend on antiretroviral drugs that are no longer funded by USAid
• Wisdom for Nigeria’s leaders as they make decisions that impact the economy and peoples’ lives