Source: www.csw.org.uk
Date: May 27, 2023
[The Lord] makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire. (Psalm 46:9)
Reflect on this verse as we pray for Sudan today, asking God to bring lasting peace with justice.
You may have seen reports of the current crisis in the news:
Civilians are bearing the brunt of violence which erupted last month between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). The leaders of these groups had previously conspired to launch a coup in October 2021, removing a civilian-led transitional government.
However, fighting erupted between these forces, including in key urban areas, on 15 April, when their ambitious leaders began competing openly for control of the country. Clashes have continued despite a 7-day humanitarian ceasefire brokered on 22 May. Although aid is slowly trickling in, its distribution is being hampered by violence and looting.
Pray for the complete restoration of peace, and a civilian-led transition to democracy. Pray especially for an end to the targeting of medical and humanitarian staff and their facilities; of women and girls; of human rights defenders; and of places of worship – some of which have been seized for military use.
Five injured in church attack
On 14 May, suspected RSF fighters attacked the Al-Masalma Coptic Church in Omdurman. Four men were shot, while another was stabbed.
Thankfully, all five survived their injuries. However, they had to be treated at a private hospital, as the largest hospital in the area is currently inaccessible because the RSF took control of it, and the SAF subsequently cut off its electricity.
Mosques bombed amid ongoing violence
The fragile Darfur region has been affected particularly severely. According to sources, 280 people were killed and more than 160 were injured in the region between 12-13 May. On 14 May, the Al Zareeba mosque was bombed in El Geneina, West Darfur. Mosques have also been bombed in the Alazhari and Burri Al Daraisa areas of Khartoum; one person was killed in the latter.
Please pray:
- For an end to the conflict and to the targeting of humanitarian and religious staff and facilities; protection for human rights defenders and refugees, and the restoration of a civilian-led democratic transition.
- For the full recovery of all who have been injured in the violence. Pray for unhindered humanitarian access, and that food and medication would reach all who are in need.
- For the protection of women and girls amid increasing reports of brutal rape by the RSF.
- For Mr Radhouane Nouicer, the UN’s designated Expert on the situation of human rights in Sudan. Pray that he would work proactively and effectively to monitor, document and report on human rights violations since the coup.