Weekly Prayer Update
Friday, October 11, 2024
Hurricane Milton in the United States
On Wednesday, October 9, Hurricane Milton struck Florida as a Category 3 storm, causing significant damage and leaving more than 3 million people without power. The storm made landfall near Siesta Key in Sarasota County, south of Tampa, sparing the city from a direct hit but still causing flooding in areas around Tampa Bay. Multiple tornadoes were triggered across the state, and at least 16 deaths have been reported. Though the storm surge was less severe than expected, extensive cleanup lies ahead for affected communities.
Nazarene churches and a camp that are part of the Southern Florida District Church of the Nazarene and the Florida District Church of the Nazarene are assessing damages to their buildings and the needs of their communities. Some churches experienced flooding, while others have downed tree limbs or roof damage.
To help support relief efforts for Milton along with the ongoing response to Helene, give to the NCM 2024 Storm Response Fund at ncm.org/2024storms.
Lord, we pray for those impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene. We ask you to walk alongside each person who is weary or in need. Comfort those who mourn. May your Spirit be near the hurting this very day. Lord, hear our prayers.
Nazarenes in the Middle East Respond to Conflict
In recent weeks and months, conflict in the Middle East has led to loss of life, destruction of homes and businesses, and widespread fear. The Church of the Nazarene is present in Lebanon, Israel, and other parts of the Middle East, with each church seeking to be a source of compassion and love for its neighbors.
In Lebanon, mass evacuations and displacement due to conflict caused nearly 1.2 million people to leave their homes in search of safety. Many have sought refuge in Beirut, where four Nazarene churches, a Nazarene school, and a Nazarene clinic are located. Even now, as explosions are felt daily in the city, these churches and ministries are providing care for church members, neighbors, and those seeking refuge.
Lebanese churches have organized the distribution of hot food, food vouchers, mattresses, and bedding. The clinic is also providing vital medical care. After being unable to start the new academic year due to weeks of closure, the Nazarene school is preparing to open on a limited basis.
In Israel, many people, including members from five Nazarene churches, have sought safety in bomb shelters and are living with the constant tension of sirens and missile strikes in their neighborhoods. Churches in Israel continue to minister to community members who are suffering during this conflict and fear the continued escalation of war.
To help support Nazarene churches throughout the region as they respond to urgent needs, please give here: ncm.org/middleeast
Lord of peace and mercy, we ask that your presence be felt in the midst of this conflict that is disrupting the lives of those in Lebanon. We pray for a quick end to the violence. We pray for protection and safety for the children and most vulnerable people impacted by this devastation. God, let your peace reign and work through your people to bring healing, hope, and comfort to everyone around them. Give your church wisdom and guidance in the days ahead as your people continue to respond to the needs around them. Lord, hear our prayers.
Anti-Human Trafficking Ministries
Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery that enables people to profit from controlling and exploiting others. Human trafficking is a global problem that affects people in every country in the world. Nazarene Compassionate Ministries partners with local churches in anti-trafficking efforts that range from awareness and education campaigns to prevention efforts that lower individuals' risk of being trafficked and protection and care for survivors.
We pray for those who have survived human trafficking and for those still trapped. Encourage them and bring them healing and peace. We pray that those who would harm others in this way would turn from their ways and be brought to swift justice. May we learn to recognize the signs of trafficking and change our own habits that may support it. Lord, hear our prayers.