Weekly Prayer Update
Friday, November 7, 2025
The Impact of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica
The island of Jamaica is suffering intensely after Hurricane Melissa tore through the island on October 28, damaging and destroying homes and buildings, causing landslides and floods, and knocking out power to more than 75% of residents. The damage is catastrophic in some areas. Accessing clean water has become a challenge across western Jamaica, and thousands remain in shelters, unable to return home. At least 32 people have died in Jamaica due to the storm, a large portion of the 75 fatalities recorded across the Caribbean.
Nazarene churches in Jamaica have sustained extensive damage. Communication is still limited, so assessments are continuing to determine the extent of the storm’s impact. When possible, emergency supplies will be shipped to the island to assist with relief efforts. To assist with these relief efforts, give at ncm.org/2025stormresponse.
Lord, our hearts break at the damage and destruction we are learning of in Jamaica and other Caribbean nations after Melissa. We know this type of rebuilding will take years. Keep our hearts soft to the needs as they become apparent, and move us to act as we are able. Encourage congregations and pastors as they take stock of damages and attempt to care for their communities at the same time. Lord, hear our prayers.
Typhoon Kalmaegi in the Philippines
This week, a fast-moving typhoon struck the central Philippines, claiming close to 200 lives and leaving 127 people missing. The province of Cebu was among the hardest hit. More than 400,000 people have been displaced as floodwaters swept through entire towns, destroying homes, overturning vehicles, and leaving streets buried in debris. Rescue crews were quickly overwhelmed by the scope of the storm’s impact. People need food, clean water, shelter, medical care, and more.
The Philippines faces an average of 20 storms and typhoons each year, and this latest disaster follows two recent typhoons that already claimed more than a dozen lives. For residents of Cebu, the devastation comes on the heels of a major earthquake that struck the region at the end of September, compounding the difficulties that many families are enduring.
Nazarenes in the Philippines will distribute food and water to people impacted by the storm, part of an ongoing compassionate response led by Inayawan Church of the Nazarene—a congregation that is already serving children and youth struggling with traumatic memories of the recent earthquake. The goal is to reach 400 families with this initial response.
Lord, we pray for the many people who are processing a series of disasters in recent weeks in the Philippines. When daily life is upended, provide ways for those who are suffering to find help and hope. Restore strength for all who are weary from repeated cleanup efforts. Be near to children and youth as they process the trauma of storms and earthquakes. Lord, hear our prayers.
Praising God for the Ministry of Child Development in Colombia
A Nazarene Child Development Center in Colombia is transforming the lives of children in a neighborhood where poverty is widespread. The center currently serves 65 students, ages 2 to 17, offering encouragement and support that would otherwise be difficult to find.
Over time, the surrounding community has come to see the center as a trusted and safe place for children—a reputation that brings parents peace of mind. While many families first come seeking help with food, they soon discover that their children are also being nurtured spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. Programs such as Vacation Bible School, art workshops, academic coaching, and emotional health seminars work together to provide holistic care for every child.
This past Christmas, children and teens from the center traveled to a rural community with a Nazarene church to host a Christmas party for local children. Nearly 45 children from three nearby villages joined in the celebration. Center leaders say their goal is to create an atmosphere of love and friendship where every child feels safe, valued, and important.
Lord, we praise You for the ways Child Development Centers are making a real and lasting difference in the lives of children and teenagers. We thank You for the pastors, staff, teachers, and volunteers at this center who serve faithfully, and for the sponsors who give each month to support this work. Bless each student and their families. Through this ministry, may children and teens not only receive help to reach milestones like high school graduation, but above all, may they come to know and experience your love and saving grace. Lord, hear our prayers.