Belize is a small independent country in Central America, and part of the Anglican Province of the West Indies. This year it celebrates 27 years of independence.

The country is politically stable – we give thanks for a peaceful transition to a new government following elections last year. In terms of the economy, agriculture and tourism are central.

The Anglican Church has congregations throughout the country, making a significant contribution to education, with over 20 church schools. The newest of these schools is St Ann’s Primary, in the capital Belmopan. When the school opened – last September – the building was still under construction, so classes met in a temporary home instead, which was the diocesan hurricane shelter.

The Rt Revd Philip Wright, Bishop of Belize, has shared his vision of a church that is more united and more socially engaged. Belize is beautiful, and attracts many visitors, but it is a poor country, with many social problems. Current concerns include high levels of foreign debt, high unemployment, involvement in the South American drug trade, urban crime and violence, sexual exploitation of children, and the spread of HIV/AIDS. However, the church is looking forward and planning for the future.
By Malcolm Lambert, USPG Mission Companion in Belize

Almighty and eternal God, who through Jesus Christ has revealed your glory to all nations, please protect and preserve Belize. God of might, wisdom and justice, please assist our Belizean government and people with your Holy Spirit of counsel and fortitude. Amen.

This week's prayers

Sunday 4

Second Sunday of Christmas This week we pray for Belize, in Central America, which is grappling with numerous social problems, including crime and HIV/AIDS. We give thanks for the efforts of the Anglican Church and Bishop Philip Wright in tackling these problems.

Monday 5

Give thanks for the vital work of Anglican schools throughout the country, and pray for the new General Manager of Schools, Mrs Marlene Leslie, and for all school principals, teachers and local managers.

Tuesday 6

Pray for all those affected by hurricanes, tropical storms and floods in Belize and throughout the Province of the West Indies. Give thanks for those who are bringing aid and relief

Wednesday 7

Give thanks for peaceful co-existence among the many ethnic groups in Belize: Kriol, Hispanic, Garifuna, Maya, and others. Pray for clergy and lay ministers from among these groups, and pray that the church may be open to all God’s people.

Thursday 8

Pray for the Cathedral Church of St John the Baptist, in Belize City. Pray for all its clergy, including Dean Lloyd Neal and Lorna Sampson, who was ordained in August.

Friday 9

Give thanks for those who support the Diocese of Belize with prayer, practical assistance and finance. Give thanks for USPG Mission Companions Malcolm and Ruth Lambert, who are helping with clergy training and schools work.

Saturday 10

Pray that the Anglican Church in Belize will have the wisdom to discern God’s will and the courage to fulfil his will.