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Prayer Profile:

On the far west coast of continental Europe lies Portugal, a nation with a rich historical and cultural heritage. During the 15th and 16th centuries, with a global empire that included possessions in Africa, Asia and South America, Portugal was one of the world’s major economic, political and military powers. Famous for its stunningly beautiful architecture and sun-drenched beaches, tourists flock to this country every year. Just 30 years ago, Portugal was ruled by a right-wing dictatorship who sought to close the country to foreign influence.

Now, its inhabitants are shaking off this legacy but the result is an increasingly materialistic and secular society.

The majority of the population is still linked with traditional Catholicism, with a strong emphasis on the veneration of the Virgin Mary (the Queen of Portugal).

The evangelical church remains extremely small (1.6 % of the population), but it is starting to grow and to become known and accepted in the society.

Redemptive Issue: The concept of the Queen of Heaven in the Scriptures is very negative and comes with God not allowing people to call on His name (Jeremiah 44). Pope Pius XII said that the Virgin Mary was the Queen of Heaven. Portugal in its commitment to the Virgin Mary needs to be redeemed from this controversial view of the mother of our Lord Jesus.

Key Scripture to Pray: Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” - Matthew 22:37

Going Before the Father: Please pray that the concept of Mary being the Queen of Heaven will be questioned among the people and that in their eyes the Lord Jesus will be lifted to His rightful place. Praise God for the fact that the number of Bible-believing Christians has exploded from 55,000 to over 300,000 in the last 25 years.

Many people are still bound up in old traditions of paganism and the occult. Portugal is 85% Catholic, but 90% of the population consult spiritist mediums. Pray that Jesus would show His power greater than any other spirit.

Few Christians live in southern Portugal, which is much poorer than the rest of the country. Pray for more labourers here and that Christians will be equipped and supported to bring the truth and love of Jesus into these communities.