Looking to the future

“It was a privilege to be there and to be with people who rather than considering their differences were united in praying for their country and its leaders”.

As the elections took place, Joan believes that prayers were answered, with peace both during and after the voting.

The polls were won convincingly by the governing MPLA party, whilst Unita, the main opposition and ex-rebels – who fought a war with the government for 27 years – lost more than 50 of its seats.

All parties have accepted the result, which Joan says is a major step forward for the nation.

She explains: “The underlying fear that the civil war might recommence has gone. I have heard Angola described as ‘God-forsaken’ and, considering its history and present-day problems, it’s easy to see why.

“But I don’t believe that God has given up on Angola. There is a sense of hope in the country again and, although no-one would deny that it still has a long way to go, elections which don’t end in bloodshed are a big step in the right direction.

“We who are members of the Church here are also looking to the future, to find ways in which to build on that hope and to demonstrate God’s love.”