In our brief for May 2019, we explore how the struggle of post-Saddam and post-ISIS Iraq continues to redefine a cohesive narrative of what its society and political system will look like in the coming decades. In such times of “grand narratives and ideologies,” we must beware of opportunism and continue to act out our faith values and convictions. Through this, the Church repositions itself as a courageous catalyst for unity in diversity. We also examine the Arab-Berber conflict that has been part of daily life in North Africa for years and how the church can promote unity and equality in the midst of an ethnic conflict. From Sudan, we learn that non-violent rebellion bears fruit and brings positive transformation. As believers, we should engage in nonviolent activism, and we should not restrict our involvement to fasting and prayer. While there is much power in fasting and prayer, we also ought to be salt and light. In this brief, we also examine the referendum on constitutional amendments that would allow President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to extend his presidential mandate and strengthen his authority in Egypt. As we do that, we reflect on the role of the Church in increasing its national and regional influence – as a servant in imitation of Christ.
Egypt
Egyptians Vote on Constitutional Amendments
Egypt’s voting stations have opened for a referendum on constitutional amendments that would allow President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi...Read More
Iraq
The Current Transformations in Iraq’s Religious Demographics Require that the Church Repositions Itself as a Courageous and Daring Catalyst for Unity in Diversity
My Iraq Brief this month will build on three articles...Read More
North Africa
Arab and Berber Followers of Christ: Two Languages, One Lord
The Berber, or Amazigh, are an ethnic group descended from the pre-Arab indigenous inhabitants of North Africa...Read More
Sudan
Nonviolent Rebellion Causes Sudan’s Decades-Long President to Fall from Power
The months-long demonstrations have paid off. Long-time Sudanese President Omar Al-Bashir was overthrow...Read More