Iceland

Iceland is a volcanic island comprised almost entirely of Norwegian descendants. Settled by Norwegians and Celtic (Scottish and Irish) immigrants during the late 9th and 10th centuries, Iceland boasts the world's oldest parliament, the Althing, established in 930. Independent for over 300 years, Iceland was subsequently ruled by Norway and Denmark. Limited home rule was granted in 1874 and complete independence attained in 1944. Literacy, longevity, income, and social cohesion are first-rate by world standards.

Though nominally Christian (Lutheran), only 10% attend a church. Icelanders are really an unreached people group themselves. Most Icelanders are very secular and most want nothing to do with Christianity. More than 40% of the population have had involvement with the occult, and spiritually it is a difficult environment. Common among youth are extremes of drinking and suicides.

YWAM in ICELAND:
For many years a DTS was held on the eastern coast of Iceland, and there was a national office in Reykjavik. However, several years ago the core YWAM team decided to become a local church, and stepped out of YWAM. New developments could lead to a reestablishment of YWAM in the near future.

prayer needs:
- for new leadership to be raised up for YWAM ministry;
- for new vision for mobilizing the hardy Icelanders in the task of world mission;
- for the light of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to release many from the dark powers;
- for growth of evangelical witness.