Cameroon, Central African Republic, Equatorial Guinea

INTERCESSIONS

We are thankful for:

• the natural resources and diverse gifts that come from these countries, such as the distinctive music and dance of Cameroon
• those who minister to victims of sexual violence, trafficking and other human rights abuses
• Christians and people of other faiths who courageously have pursued reconciliation and peace among those in conflict
• individuals and organizations who have provided for health clinics and schools in Cameroon and the Central African Republic.

We pray for:

• just resolutions to the conflicts and violence among diverse groups and their leaders
• refugees who flee to other countries, and for those who host them
• economic developments that make it possible for all to rise out of poverty
• stable democratic governments that effectively serve the common good.

PRAYERS

For our country Cameroon, our regions, our villages, our towns

Heavenly father, we humbly pray: 
Direct the leaders of our country, Cameroon, now in this time when terrorism is overtaking this great nation. Grant them wisdom and understanding, and help them to respond to this crisis, quickly and effectively.  Direct them that they may do what is right in your sight. May they follow your divine will to lead our nation on the paths of peace and safety.

Unite all response agencies in an organized and harmonious fashion to bring quick and effective resolution to the issues created by the actions of Boko Haram. Empower us as Cameroonian citizens to do our own part, financially, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Give us strength to support all who have been affected by this tragedy.

O Lord, we also pray for effective eradication of corruption that is destroying our beautiful and rich country. Touch our heart and enlighten our thoughts so that we will use our resources for the benefit of the entire nation, for Africa and ultimately the whole world.

Bring peace and comfort to all those who are suffering as a result of these crises.

Surround us with your love and mercy!

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

(Catherine Manga, Cameroon)

Lord Jesus,
you who have marked seventy times seven our falls each day,
and who know the dull frenzy of our eyes, darkened with fever and rancid wind,
you who know the snares of the fowler,
and his net that circles our steps in the bush, and our paths to the villages,
here we are given over to the horn of the rhinoceros,
and here are hovering the vultures and goshawks.
But you, who know the frailty of our two feet of clay,
and the place of our weakness and that of our rousing again,
Lord, let us not yield to temptation,
but deliver us from evil.

(A Procession of Prayers: Meditations and Prayers from around the World, comp. John Carden, WCC, and Cassell, London, UK, 1998, p.210)

Prayer from Cameroon

When we contemplate such beauty,
the immensity before us,
blossoming with colour and scent,
the surprising diversity of all that surrounds us,
the green forests, the animals,
the intelligence which allows us humans
to create with you,
God,the acts of your grace on our behalf,
we can only express our joy at being your children
and gladly sing of the generosity of your love.

(© Rev. Dr Kayoka-Luendu M., Cameroon. English transl. Dr Colette Bouka Coula, adapted by Terry MacArthur.)

SONG