When is General Prayer Day?
General Prayer Day is a national holiday in the Central African Republic (CAR) on June 30th each year.
This holiday is a day for all citizens to unite to pray for a peaceful future.
History of General Prayer Day
In 1960, CAR gained its independence from France and shook off its colonial yoke. Since them, the country has lurched from one bad government to another with short periods of stability overshadowed by longer periods of conflict.
Today, as one of the ten poorest countries in the world, CAR holds some unwanted records as the unhealthiest country and the worst country to be young in. Despite this, the people are noted for their good nature, warmth, and generosity.
In the face of such adversity, it is no surprise that religion is an important part of life. Nearly 90% of the population is Christian, with just over half being Protestant.
Prayer Day was instigated to harness this strong religious aspect. There are a few Prayer Days on the holiday calendar of several African nations. Many exist to give thanks for peaceful and prosperous times and perhaps in future years, CAR can look back and consider Prayer Day as thanksgiving and not a cry for help.
