As political violence continues to swirl around the island country of Madagascar, Southern Baptist missionaries decide to remain. 

It is not a decision arrived at lightly.  As many other mission and government agencies are evacuating their people out of Madagascar, IMB families are opting to stay and continue ministering to the over 20 million Malagasy people.

"We know which areas to avoid," says IMB representative Kristi Emeish. "We keep abreast of the ongoing situation and try to stay safe."

IMB missionaries recently came out of Madagascar to attend an annual missionary meeting with colleagues from other parts of Africa.

"This is wonderful, my children are really enjoying it.  Many of their friends have evacuated out and they really miss the interaction; this has helped fill that gap," remarks Kristi.

Missionaries from all parts of Southern Africa gathered around these from Madagascar to pray for them and the places they live and serve.  "We want to remain as long as God allows, to minister to those around us," she continues.

Just six years ago the IMB had no missionary presence in Madagascar.  Through the prayers of Southern Baptist worldwide interceding on behalf of the Malagasy people, we now have four missionary families ministering on the island.

"Yes the political turmoil is unsettling; but what is more unsettling is the thousands of Malagasy who don't know Christ," Kristi exclaims.

God is just now beginning to build His force of IMB missionaries on the island. 

Pray for the missionaries of Madagascar, that they would stay safe, but also that they would be bold in their witness. 

Pray for the people of Madagascar that they would hear God's voice, that they would acknowledge their need for a Savior, and that they would find the peace that comes from knowing Christ.