Weekly Prayer Update

 

 

 

 

 

Friday, January 9, 2026

 

Hurricane Melissa Relief in Haiti

At the end of October, Hurricane Melissa tore through the Caribbean, leaving mass destruction in its wake. While Jamaica took the brunt of the storm's impact, other countries also experienced its effects. In Haiti, 43 people lost their lives when Melissa swept across the island nation. The storm added a new layer of trauma and difficulty for Haitian residents, who have long suffered through deep instability, ongoing violence, and persistent humanitarian need.

More than two months later, communities in Haiti are still feeling the effects of Melissa. The flooding inundated fields, washing away plantain, corn, and beans, which are regular food sources for many agricultural communities. Debris and mud are still being cleared away, and families who otherwise relied on crops for income and nutrition are facing deepening food insecurity.

Nazarene churches and church members in Haiti, in partnership with Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, received help after Melissa, thanks to a warehouse that is continually stocked with emergency food and hygiene supplies. Church leaders moved items from the Central District out to the South Central, Lagonave, Grand-Anse, and South Districts, ensuring that support reached the neediest churches and communities first.

God, we pray for all who are hungry in Haiti, and all who are still experiencing the impact from Melissa. For some people, this storm caused new instability and scarcity. For others, it deepened a crisis that’s ongoing. May each person who suffers find hope and help through you and the outstretched arm of your Church. Keep us sensitive to the needs in Haiti and move us to action when given the chance to help. Lord, hear our prayers.

Care for Refugees in Thailand

Mae La Refugee Camp lies along the Thailand–Myanmar border and is home to more than 35,000 refugees, most of whom are from the Karen ethnic group and arrived in the camp after fleeing violence and persecution in Myanmar. Many families have lived in the camp for years or even decades, unable to return home due to ongoing political instability and safety concerns. Life is marked by chronic food insecurity, limited access to education, and restricted opportunities to work. Recent cuts to foreign aid have left many families struggling to survive.

Nazarene church leaders and members in Thailand are responding with a new compassionate ministry outreach in the camp. Through educational guidance, a total of 100 children are receiving tutoring and instruction, and the nutritional needs of 15 families are met through monthly food packs. Additionally, the outreach will help 150 youth and adults achieve economic empowerment and self-reliance through vocational skills training.

“This project embodies the mission of the Church of the Nazarene by extending love, hope, and practical support to those most vulnerable,” shared a church leader. “It mobilizes the church to serve beyond its walls, becoming the hands and feet of Christ to displaced and suffering people. Through this work, the church becomes not just a place of worship, but a center for healing, growth, and hope.”

Lord, we pray for the refugees who fill the Mae La camp and other camps in Thailand. We pray for each family that struggles with food insecurity and the uncertainty that comes with displacement. Through this ministry, we pray for improved health for each participant and that children will grow both physically, academically, and spiritually. Give us similar concerns for the immigrants and refugees in our local areas, so we too may be your hands and feet. Lord, hear our prayers.

Praising God for Holistic Child Development in Mozambique

A Nazarene child development center in Mozambique is providing holistic, life-changing care to 75 children and teenagers living in poverty.

  • In coordination with local health officials, students and families impacted by malnutrition have received the necessary support to recover—including enriched meals for children while they’re at the center and training for parents on growing drought-resistant crops.
  • School attendance has increased because students have received the necessary supplies to attend regularly.
  • Older students, including eight recent graduates, were supported in taking their next steps through vocational training or small-business opportunities.
  • A total of 33 children who could not previously read or write have gained literacy skills through staff tutoring and support.
  • Students are learning about Jesus and his love through the teaching of the staff and local church leaders.

Connecting with parents is an essential aspect of how the center makes a difference in the lives of children and teens. One mother shared how the center has impacted her family, saying,

“When my husband lost his life, leaving me with five children, it was difficult for me because I depend on [farming]. With the temperature these past few years, it is very difficult to produce a good quantity to sustain [our nutrition] and studies. With the help and support we have received from the center, today the children are [in school]. My children are studying and going to church, thanks to the teachings of the project.””

Our God, we thank you for the ministry of this child development center. We praise you for how children who are hungry are fed, and those in need of spiritual or educational guidance are supported. Bless each teacher who gives of themselves to serve these children. May each student and their families come to know and trust your saving love. Lord, hear our prayers.