Tuesday, April 9
Equatorial Guinea
Young Presbyterians participating in worship in Bata, Equatorial Guinea
The Reformed Presbyterian Church of Equatorial Guinea (IRPGE) is the oldest partner for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in the Central Africa region. Our history goes back to 1850, when the early Presbyterian missionaries landed on the island of Corisco. The life of the IRPGE has not been an easy one. Spanish colonial authorities restricted the work of Protestant missions and favored that of Catholic missions. Later, under the independence government, the Protestant churches were persecuted. Today, while no longer facing persecution, the church sees itself marginalized by its small size and lack of access to the authorities of the country.
The church is also feeling stress as ethnic tensions are expressed in democratic systems of the church. Building unity and harmony in the church is a priority for General Secretary Rev. Manuel Nzoh. The IRPGE is preparing a large gathering representing the diversity of the church and with the goal of identifying a path toward reconciliation and a vision for the future. As regional liaison for the PC(USA), I have been asked to talk about unity at this gathering. At their request, I did the same at their synod meeting.
The only denomination in the region not partnered with a presbytery or church, the IRPGE is seeking a twinning relationship.
—Jeffrey Boyd, PC(USA) regional liaison, Central Africa
Let us join in prayer for:
Partners/Ministries
Reformed Presbyterian Church of Equatorial Guinea: Rev. Manuel Nzoh Asumu, general secretary
PC(USA) Agencies’ Staff
Penny Franklin, PMA
Rev. Mark Frey, BOP
Judith Freyer, BOP
Let us pray
Lord, please nurture peace and unity in the Reformed Presbyterian Church of Equatorial Guinea, and help church leaders and members understand strength and large size are not required to carry forth your Word to a world in need of knowing your grace, love, and compassion. Amen.
Daily Lectionary
Morning Psalms 98; 146
First Reading Daniel 2:1-16
Second Reading 1 John 2:1-11
Gospel Reading John 17:12-19
Evening Psalms 66; 116
