Niger
Partner with World Mission in Niger: Download this printable pdf and share with your congregation or worshiping community
News
Niger sets an example for the world
Muslims and Christians live together in peace
3/2016 The Evangelical Church of the Republic of Niger has a strong commitment to sharing hospitality with Muslim neighbors. These Fulani nomads know that as they cross the Sahel on foot with their livestock that they are welcome to stay several days at any EERN church. The churches are known as Misericorde, or "places of refuge." I am thankful for PC(USA) mission co-worker Claire Zuholsky's service with the youth of EERN and our partnership with this denomination. We have so much to learn from them in terms of hospitality, service and witness in a challenging context—the poorest country in the world according to the Human Development Index.—Debbie Braaksma
Josh Heikkila, regional liaison, revisits Niger and finds significant growth. Read more
Saïdou Saley, general secretary of the Evangelical Church of the Republic of Niger, died June 4, 2015, at Danja Hospital (Maradi) after a short stay. Keep his family and his church family in your prayers at this difficult time.
Muslims stand with Christians against attacks on churches in Niger
On January 16-17, in response to satirical cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed published in France, extremist elements in the West African country of Niger destroyed churches and Christian homes and businesses in the capital, Niamey, and the regional capital, Zinder. More than 50 churches were burned. Dozens of Christian families were left homeless. The PC(USA) partner in Niger, the Evangelical Church in the Republic of Niger (EERN), lost five church buildings, two manses, and homes belonging to a half dozen member families.
The President of Niger, Mahamadou Issoufou, asked this of his country’s people: “What have the Christians of Niger done to deserve this? Where have they wronged you?” The EERN runs several primary schools as well as a health facility, and although some were also attacked, local Muslim residents came out to protect them. In an incredible show of solidarity, many Muslims stood up to safeguard churches in their neighborhoods and to shelter Christians who were physically threatened.
The PC(USA) has three mission co-workers in Niger, who are in safe locations and are being well cared for by EERN. “We ask Presbyterians to join the EERN as they pray and work for peace in Niger, together with their Muslim neighbors,” said Debbie Braaksma, who heads PC(USA)’s Africa Area office.—World Misson regional liaison, Josh Hekkila
Poverty, not Islam, is the enemy, 2013 Niger peacemaker says
One Great Hour of Sharing and water projects improve lives in Niger
Background
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) began its relationships in Niger more recently than in some other African countries. Our engagement in Niger involves ministry through mission personnel and through our partner church relationship. The PC(USA) joins its partner in Niger in a holistic approach to ministry that includes education and leadership development, health ministries, community development, evangelism and new church development.
Although 98 percent of the population is Muslim, Niger has remained a secular state and has rejected outside pressure to become a Muslim state. The Christians in Niger have a vibrant faith and ministry to their country as they strive to build the church and the country of Niger.
Niger Partner Church
Eglise Evangelique au Republique du Niger (EERN).
Resource
Josh Heikkila video: Threshing millet
