90,000 Malaysians join 40-Day Prayer & Fast

More than 90,000 Christians have responded to the 40 day prayer and fasting call to pray for Malaysia during the run-up to National Day celebrations which will take place on the 31st August.

This is the fourth year of the "Lighting Up Our Nation" rally, organised by the National Evangelical Christian Fellowship (NECF) Malaysia. It started from 22nd July and will run until 30th August, with the theme "My House Shall be Called a House of Prayer" for year 2004.

According to the host organisation, the momentum of intercession for the nation has increased tremendously. NECF believes that it is an appropriate time to give thanks to God for the nation. For instance, the recovery of the economy from the 1997 setback, protection from viral epidemic (e.g. SARS and bird flu), successful transition of the nation's leadership (2003) and the smooth-running of the General Elections in 2004 are evidences of God's mercy.

More than 25 towns across the nation has responded to the rally. During the 40 days, churches are also holding continuous prayer sessions for Malaysia round the clock. They are praying for five prayer goals:
1. For the states and towns
2. For the authorities and the community
3. For the churches /Christians to be a blessing
4. For the churches /Christians to be set apart and holy
5. For churches /Christians to be watchmen

In addition, the organiser will donate money saved from meals during the fasting to charity.