An international year of prayer for
Morocco
| Week 27 |
KingdomMorocco is a constitutional monarchy with the accent on monarchy. The king of Morocco is all-powerful and above the law. While Morocco has ratified several constitutions since independence in 1956, none received democratic input. Royal decrees have dissolved the Moroccan Parliament on several occasions.Enjoying widespread popular support, King Hassan II ruled with an iron grip from 1961 until 1998. One of the Moroccan king’s titles is "commander of the faithful". Although it has been said that two Christian nannies cared for him as a child, early in Hassan’s reign his government forced many missionaries to leave the country. Later in life the world respected him as a moderate Arab leader who worked to reduce tensions between Muslim and Western nations. King Hassan II often hosted Israeli leaders and once invited the Pope to visit and to address the Moroccan people. Upon his death in 1998 his son ascended the throne to become King Mohammad VI. The new king has rapidly won the support and admiration of the average Moroccan. Apart from making sweeping changes in the powerful and corrupt leadership structure of the national police forces, Mohammad VI has inaugurated impressive programs to improve the well being of the poorer people. He has also made great strides on behalf of human rights that are hoped will bring a reduction in the persecution of Moroccan Christians. "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone--for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." 1 Timothy 2:1-6 "Endow the king with your justice, O God, the royal son with your righteousness." Psalm 72:1
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