Arab, Libyan in Sweden

Introduction / History

Since the death of Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, there has been much violence in Libya from factions that want to take power in this oil-rich nation. Libyans have been trying to escape the violence to peaceful lands in Europe. Sweden is starting to clamp down on which Libyans to allow refuge in their country. Unless someone is persecuted, not just part of a persecuted clan or group, they are returned to Libya.

Though many Swedes disagree with one another regarding what their policy should be, they are becoming overwhelmed with refugees from volatile parts of the Muslim world.

Where Are they Located?

Many of the Libyans who make it to Sweden live in Stockholm, but others are being moved into separate communities in the cold northern lands.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Libyans who try to make it to Sweden are often traumatized by going across the Mediterranean Sea in leaky boats that sometimes capsize leaving people to drown. They sometimes don't know if others they came with arrived safely. Those who arrive in the safety of Sweden know that they can easily be sent back to the catastrophe they escaped in Libya.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Simon of Cyrene, who carried the cross of Jesus, was from Libya, and Cyrenian Jews carried the gospel back to Libya after Pentecost. Islam replaced Christianity in the 600s AD. Today there are almost no known followers of Christ in Libya. The Libyan Arabs are one of the most unreached people groups in the world.

Most Libyan Arabs are not aware of what Christians really believe. Because of their strong Muslim roots, even if they had an opportunity to hear the gospel, they would not initially consider the message as personal for themselves.

What Are Their Needs?

Libyan refugees in Europe desperately need a safe home where they can raise their families, have education for their children, and earn a living. Libyans also have a rare opportunity to hear and respond to the gospel in Sweden, a land of religious freedom.

Prayer Points

Pray that the surging mass of Libyans arriving in Sweden will not only find rest and comfort, but also a hope for the eternal future through the Savior Jesus Christ.
Now that the Libyans have tasted freedom, pray that the sweetness causes such a hunger and thirst for love and kindness that they will never again settle for oppression, whether political, or spiritual.
Pray for Libyans in Sweden to learn of the Prince of Peace and spread His fame throughout Sweden and Libya.

Text Source:   Keith Carey