Weekly Prayer Update
Friday, June 19, 2026
Tomorrow, June 20, is World Refugee Day, a time to join together in remembering and lifting in prayer the millions of people around the world who have been forced to flee their homes because of conflict, persecution, violence, disaster, or instability.
The most recent figures show that there are 118 million people living in displacement. Some have crossed borders in search of safety, some are awaiting asylum decisions, and others have moved to new locations within their home countries.
As followers of Christ, we are called to welcome the stranger, care for the vulnerable, and extend compassion to our neighbors. We recognize the courage of those who have been displaced and the challenges they face as they seek safety, stability, and hope for the future. We acknowledge the responsibility to look out for the needs of others, which can include advocating for public policies that provide refuge and the chance for those who have fled their homes to live in peace.
We give thanks for local churches, ministries, and organizations around the world that walk alongside refugees, immigrants, asylum seekers, and migrants. By offering friendship, medical care, food distribution, legal guidance, education for children, language classes for adults, and much more, they offer the hope and hospitality of Christ.
Lord, we pray today for all who have been forced to flee. Each one of those 118 million is precious to you. Help us value them in the same way, seeing each as an individual with inherent dignity, wholly loved by their Creator. Move in our hearts to work within our abilities to advocate for and seek to meet the needs of immigrants and refugees, even when it is not popular and even when it costs us something. Give us fresh energy and inspiration to stand with vulnerable people as a reflection of the grace and love you have shown to us. Lord, hear our prayers.
Global Conflict Increases
According to the Institute for Economics and Peace, the world is experiencing its highest level of conflict in decades. Data shows that global peacefulness has declined for the twelfth consecutive year, with 119 countries now less peaceful than they were in 2008. Violent demonstrations, internal conflicts, and cross-border conflicts have all increased significantly during this period.
In 2024, there were 61 active state-based conflicts around the world—the highest number recorded since the end of World War II and more than double the number seen just 15 years ago.
These trends have contributed to growing instability, displacement, and humanitarian need around the world. As conflicts become more interconnected and prolonged, millions of people continue to face uncertainty, violence, and the loss of their homes and livelihoods.
Nazarene churches around the world minister and serve in or nearby areas that experience conflict. Many congregations, though impacted themselves, reach out with compassion to their neighbors during times of danger and stress. From Haiti and the Middle East to Ukraine and the Democratic Republic of Congo—and in many other places around the world—Nazarenes are serving communities affected by conflict and instability, bearing witness to the peace, hope, and love of Christ.
God, we pray for those who are impacted by ongoing conflict. We cannot always grasp what it means to face this kind of danger and trauma. But we know that local congregations are there in the midst, living out resurrection hope, and serving selflessly. May we seek, wherever we are, to be peacemakers, and so imitate you, the Prince of Peace. We pray for an end to conflict and war, and protection for those who are suffering. Lord, hear our prayers.
Praising God for Clean Water in Myanmar
For years, families in communities served by the Myanmar Southeast District of the Church of the Nazarene faced significant challenges accessing water. Residents often traveled more than one kilometer to purchase water from a private home, creating both financial and physical burdens for the community. The lack of a reliable water source also delayed the construction of the district's new ministry and community center.
To address this need, a new community water well was installed. The well now provides water for nearby households, supports the local church and district office, and enables the completion and future operation of a multi-purpose center that will host trainings, meetings, and educational activities.
The impact has been felt across the community. Families now have easier access to clean water for drinking, cooking, cleaning, and laundry. The new water source is expected to reduce the risk of waterborne illnesses, particularly among children, while also supporting livestock and home gardens that contribute to food security and household livelihoods. Community members have embraced shared responsibility for maintaining the well, helping ensure that it will continue serving families for years to come.
Lord, we thank you for the joy of clean water and the hope that it brings. We look forward with this community to the renewed health they expect to see now that this water well has been constructed. Through the district center, we know pastors will be trained and ministry will expand. We give you praise for this important project. Lord, hear our prayers.