Why praying for Catholics in the context of their country is important?

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Catholicism takes on different shape and form in each country, based on native customs and traditions. It is also greatly influenced by the political and religious background of the country. Also, a country with a predominant Catholic population has more influence and impact on the overall lifestyle and behavior of the populace, than a country with a meagre Catholic population. In many countries, Catholicism is greatly influenced by the pagan faiths and practices of the people, resulting to syncretism. Catholics in different countries therefore respond differently to the true gospel of Jesus Christ.

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There are also spiritual forces at work within each country. The Bible says, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12). Thus, we need to pray and evangelize the Catholics, never losing sight that our struggle is against the spiritual forces that influence them. We need to seek God for a revival and spiritual awakening to sweep throughout the country. This will make our prayers and witness to individual Catholics effective and fruitful.