Weekly Prayer Update
Friday, January 23, 2026
Food Security in Benin
In Benin, hunger is widespread. Nearly 10 percent of households are food insecure, chronic malnutrition affects at least 36 percent of young children, and more than 547,000 people across the country are facing extreme levels of food insecurity and hunger.
Nazarenes in Benin are working to create sustainable ways to grow more food and ensure families have enough to eat. This year, these efforts are expanding to respond to ongoing challenges such as rising food costs. Through food distributions, community savings groups, and projects that provide farmers with training and access to funds for seeds or equipment, churches are making a meaningful difference. In partnership with local nonprofit organizations, these initiatives are helping nearly 7,000 people receive at least two meals per day. Special attention is given to households led by single mothers, the elderly, widows, and orphans. Local churches are also investing in regular prayer groups and training to provide spiritual support for vulnerable families.
“As believers, we are called to demonstrate Christ’s compassion by addressing physical and emotional suffering,” shares one project leader. “By responding to these needs, we translate the Gospel into concrete actions. It is a way of living out our faith by building a visible testimony of God’s love, not only through words, but also through concrete acts of service.”
God, we pray for those who are hungry in Benin. We know that hunger can be devastating for children while they are growing. We know it shortens life expectancy and reduces quality of life. In scripture, we are reminded that Jesus cared for those who were hungry when he fed the 5,000. Through this project, also designed to feed thousands, may those who are hungry find hope and help. Empower and strengthen local congregations to continue to be your hands and feet. Lord, hear our prayers.
Praising God for Clean Water in Papua New Guinea
The campus of Melanesian Nazarene Teacher’s College in Papua New Guinea (where 66 percent of the population do not have access to clean drinking water) is the site of a new water project, funded through Nazarene Compassionate Ministries. A piping network and two wells have been constructed, and local Nazarene churches have assisted by supplying volunteers to dig trenches—strengthening ties between the college and nearby faith communities. With the installation of solar pumps, the system will be fully operational in the coming weeks, just in time for the new school year. The wells will supply clean water to more than 1,000 students and staff.
Our Lord, we thank you for this water project that will improve the health and well-being of students at the Nazarene Teacher’s College in Papua New Guinea. We give praise for the partnership between local churches and the school. Through this meaningful project, may students be reminded that you are the source of true, living water. Lord, hear our prayers.
Caring for Children in Chile
A Nazarene child development center in Chile, Abrazo de Mamá, (Mom’s Hug), has created a safe space where children’s spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotional, and social growth is carefully fostered.
In this particular community, homelessness, crime, and substance abuse are all present. These factors elevate risk factors for children’s safety and thus the project seeks to reduce those risks, supporting parents and creating space for children to thrive. For local migrant families where parents often work long hours, the center’s care ensures their children’s safety until parents return home.
At this center, 90 percent of children who attend have educational support needs like ADHD, ASD, language development needs, and learning disabilities. Through the efforts of the center staff, these children receive targeted academic guidance and support. All attendees receive spiritual nurture to help them learn about God’s love and are invited to Vacation Bible School and other opportunities to discover faith.
God, we thank you for the ministry of Abrazo de Mamá and earnestly pray that you would bless the pastors and staff who provide this vital care for children. May each student who attends be supported and uplifted despite the challenges that exist nearby. We pray for their safety, health, and spiritual life—may each child and family come to know you and your great love. Lord, hear our prayers.