France and Châlons

France is a country of rich history, cultural heritage, diversity, and beauty.  Being the third largest nation in Europe, with the fourth largest population, and given its geographical location, France plays an important part in Europe’s history, and its future.

When most people think of France, they immediately think of Paris, the nation’s capitol.  Home to many well known icons such as La Tour Eiffel, l’Arc de Triumphe, le Louvre, Notre Dame, and many others, this cultural and historical capitol is known as “the city of lights”.  It also has a long history of being the center for learning and knowledge.  Paris is the political, cultural, and economic center of France and of Western Cultural life since the Middle Ages, and is one of the most vibrant metropolises in the world.  About 15 percent of France’s inhabitants live in the Paris metropolitan area.  France is highly urbanized overall with over 75% of its population living in cities.  Châlons-en-Champagne is one such city being the capital of the Marne department, and the capital of the Champagne-Ardenne region.  With its population over 100,000, and just a few hours east of Paris and west of Germany, it proves to play an influential role in France.

Known for its beauty and historical monuments, as well as its love of fine cuisine, flowers, all things asthetic, and generally loving life, France is an exciting place to visit.  However, below this beauty is the sad reality of France’s spiritual bankruptcy.  Less than 1% of the population claims to be Christian and Islam has grown to around 10%.  The majority doesn’t practice any religion, though they might claim Roman Catholicism, and will often suspiciously regard Christianity as a cult.  The percentage of believers in France is lower than most Asian countries and equivalent to nations known to be strictly Muslim.  With the vast number of immigrants to France from Arab countries, Africa, and even Asia, there is such a potential for seeing France turning to God as a catalyst for influence throughout the world! 

As I learn more about the country and its people I want to continually share with you so you can learn with me, as well as know better how to pray for this spiritually dark nation.