The Mission Society sent its first missionaries to Zambia in 2007. In partnership with Christian Blind Mission International (CBMI), these missionaries, Michael and Jannike Seward, relocated to the nation of nearly 12 million in order to help eradicate various forms of blindness which affect millions around the world.
CBMI has helped more than 11 million people each year through various treatments related to blindness and vision problems. Michael, an ophthalmologist, and Jannike, a special education teacher, use their training and talents to meet physical needs as well as share the love of Christ with Zambians.
Zambia gained her independence in 1964 but suffered economically when copper prices, the leading resource, fell in the 1970s. Currently 73% of the population lives below the international poverty line and unemployment continues to plague many families. At least 17% of the adults in the nation suffer from HIV/AIDS and the problem continues to increase.
Prayer Requests
Pray for continued healthy relationships between Zambian tribes.
Pray for Zambians to stand strong against the temptation to participate in corruption. Zambia as a whole has largely rejected corruption, but it is still a temptation for many.
Pray for the Zambians dealing with poverty and those who struggle to meet the daily needs of their families. The severe gap between the rich and poor adds to the complexity of the problem.
Pray for those who have HIV/AIDS. Pray for a communal sense of responsibility and openness about the problem, for those who are affected to be courageous and to rely on Christ for their strength, and for others to be compassionate and not judgmental.
Pray that people will distinguish between a Christian culture and their individual response to Christ. Pray that Zambians would not only be followers of Christ, but also zealous missionaries.
