- Population
- 3.5 million
- Religion
- Roman Catholic : 79%
- Russian Orthodox : 4%
- Protestant (includes Lutheran and Evangelical Christian Baptist) : 2%
- Other/Unspecified : 5.5%
- None : 9.5%
- Age Structure
- 0 – 14 years : 14%
- 15 – 64 years : 70%
- Above 65 years : 16%
- Ethnic Groups
- Lithuanian : 83.4%
- Polish : 6.7%
- Russian : 6.3%
- Other/Unspecified : 3.6%
- Government
- Type : Parliamentary Democracy
- Head of government : Prime Minister Andrius Kubilius
- Head of State : President Dalia Grybauskait
- Labor Force
- Services : 57%
- Industry : 29%
- Agriculture : 14%
Lithuania is a small country in Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Latvia and Russia. The climate swings between maritime and continental, with pleasant summers and cold winters accompanied by snowfall. The terrain is mainly fertile lowlands dotted by many small lakes. The major natural resources of Lithuania are peat, arable land, and amber.
Some scholars believe that Lithuanians started inhabiting the Baltic area as early as 2500 BC while others believe they migrated to the Baltic regions during the 1st century AD. The earliest historical reference to them by name can be traced to a 10th century AD, Prussian manuscript. The Kingdom of Lithuania was established in the 13th century AD. In the 15th century AD Lithuania became the largest state and a formidable power in Europe, as it merged with Poland and this alliance lasted until the 18th century AD. Following this period, Lithuania remained mostly under the rule of the Russian Empire. In 1918 Lithuania became an Independent Republic. However, from 1940 to 1990, Lithuania was occupied by Soviet Russia. In March 1990, Lithuania obtained independence. In 2004, Lithuania joined NATO and the EU.
Driven by exports and domestic consumer demand, Lithuania’s economy was growing at a remarkable rate of 8% during the four years prior to 2008. Unemployment figure was only 5% in 2008, while wages were soaring at double digit rates. Privatization of state-owned utilities, and support from foreign governments and businesses are helping the old command economy to transition to a market economy.
Let’s pray for a mighty revival in Lithuania! Let’s pray that Kingdom workers are empowered to share the gospel boldly. Let’s pray that the Lord prepares the heart of Lithuanians for the good news!
If you have any comments or suggestions please contact us at prayerofficer@imrah.org
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