Lutheran Church-Canada statement on the current situation in Nicaragua

Inter-American Development Bank

On May 29th, representatives from the Lutheran Church Synod of Nicaragua (ILSN) and Christian Mission Association in Nicaragua (AMCN), advised Lutheran Church Canada (LCC) that they no longer view it as safe to send mission teams and other representatives to Nicaragua, due to the escalating unrest and uncertainty.

The current situation in the Central American nation of Nicaragua has grown more tense since changes to the country’s social security system triggered protesters to take to the streets for the past month. The protests have prompted clashes between protesters, the government, and police which has reportedly left at least 90 dead and almost 900 injured.

As a result of the continuing unrest, the AMCN and the ILSN has recommended “to suspend any visit to Nicaragua until the situation improves and security is given to visitors.” They also state that “We consider that it is too risky to visit Nicaragua at this time after the wave of violence, instability, looting, riots and lack of citizen security, every day are more constant attacks by the police and national army against the protesters.”

Global Affairs Canada has issued a travel advisory to Nicaragua related to the protests and is recommending that all non-essential travel be avoided. Visit travel.gc.ca for updates on the advisory.

LCC and its Committee for Missions and Social Ministry Services is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as the situation develops.

LCC President Rev. Timothy Teuscher is encouraging all congregations to keep the people of Nicaragua in their prayers. “Our Missions Committee offers the following prayers for use in worship services across LCC over the next few weeks.”

Heavenly Father, God of all concord, it is Your will that harmony prevail in every land, in order that the daily bread You provide may be received in peace. Give Your wisdom to guide the leaders in the government, businesses, churches, and movements in the nation of Nicaragua, that violence and strife may be ended, life spared, and order be restored, only for the sake of Your Son Jesus Christ, the Wisdom from on High, Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God forever. Amen.

God of grace and Lord of all power and might, You rule the nations through the authorities established by your gracious will. We earnestly pray for the government, the police forces, and the people of Nicaragua, that by the working of Your generous and strong hand, peace will be restored among them. Protect all who are in danger, direct those in power to serve the cause of justice and equity, grant honesty to prevail. Guide Your church, that in the midst of every uncertainty, she will boldly proclaim Your faithfulness and the forgiveness that heals all wounds in Jesus Christ, Your Son, Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God forever. Amen.

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