Our team in Bolivia works to bring justice for victims of sexual assault and human trafficking. They also passionately pursue transformation of the structures that enable these crimes to flourish. A crucial need in seeking sustainable transformation is to secure the commitment of leaders who hold significant influence and power in the community - certainly government officials, but also of parallel importance: pastors.

My good friend Elizabeth spearheads IJM’s work with pastors in Bolivia, and she has written me asking for your prayers. Here is her request:

Justice Week, Bolivia, September 18-24
The Church of Bolivia is awakening, thanks to 60 pastors and Christian leaders who have heard and responded to God’s passion for justice with a desire to transform their communities.  IJM Bolivia works with the local church to follow the biblical mandate to “Seek justice, rescue the oppressed, defend the orphan, plead for the widow.” Several pastors have designated September 18-24 as “justice week,” to teach their congregations about God’s heart for the oppressed and reach out to the community with the message that the Lord loves justice.  The events include:

- public viewing of a domestic violence video
- inviting the community to Sunday service focused on justice
- professional training related to domestic violence & child sexual abuse for pastors & church leaders
- a day of games and food for IJM clients provided by local churches
- prayer gathering for victims of injustice

Pray that the church ignites with God’s passion for justice and that the love of Christ reaches the local community through this movement.  We hope that God multiplies the fruit of the week to promote justice and mercy in Bolivia through its Christian leaders. 

Will you join in praying for the local church and pastors of Bolivia?
What application of these “Justice Week” actions could be made in your own community?