French citizens affected by protests

A large majority of French citizens were impacted by the events that occurred alongside the authorized demonstrations against the high cost of living and in favor of increased resources for the National Education system. These demonstrations, which took place in various cities, led to social tensions and incidents of violence and property damage.

Cnef calls for prayer

On Thursday, October 22, the National Council of French Evangelicals (Cnef) launched a prayer call on social media. The council acknowledged the period of strong social tensions in France, emphasizing the distress caused by precarity, worries about the future, and the degradation of living conditions.

Cnef condemns violence

The Cnef referred to the "violences of exceptional gravity" observed in many cities, which resulted in numerous victims and led to looting and destruction. It stated that it hears the expressed sufferings and strongly condemns these acts, noting that nothing can justify the destruction of others' property or harm to one's neighbor.

Prayers for victims and peace

The Cnef expressed its thoughts and prayers for the victims, their families, merchants, employees, elected officials, and public officials affected by the events. It cited the Bible verse "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" (Romans 12.21) and encouraged evangelical Protestant churches to pray and show a kind and concrete presence to those affected.

Cnef seeks justice and solidarity

The Cnef also hopes for more social justice, so that people in precarious situations and those worrying about their future receive fair responses. Its prayer call includes the forces of order, emergency services, and authorities, asking God to give them wisdom, discernment, and a sense of justice.

Churches called to solidarity

Finally, the Cnef's call also concerns the churches, urging them to become places of welcome, listening, fraternity, and concrete solidarity at the heart of their neighborhoods.