Since gaining independence from Spain in 1824, Peru has had a long history of dictatorships and military rule. Terrorism and civil war ripped through the country during the '80s.

The small elite of Spanish descendants still retain a strong hold on most the countries power and money.

Over 40% of the population live in extreme poverty.

The Catholic Church is powerful and able to discriminate against non-Catholics through charging them more for taxes and education.

In 1989 a National Prayer Movement was launched to pray for Peru - terrorist leaders were captured in 1992 and many people became Christians! Pray that the passion for prayer that can change a country would continue to spread across Peru.

During the '80s evangelical church leaders were seen as a threat by both terrorists and the army - hundreds were martyred and imprisoned. Throughout this persecution the church grew - pray that they would continue to disciple many new Christians.

The war has left hundreds of widows and thousands of children orphaned.

Among the tribal Quecha people the church is growing because is truly indigenous - their cultural identity is expressed in their worship and Christian community. Pray that as more read the Bible in their own language they would understand the love and grace of God for them.