Weekly Prayer Update
Friday, June 12, 2026
Earthquake and Tsunami in the Philippines
Earlier this week, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake and resulting tsunami affected communities in the southern Philippines and parts of Indonesia, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. At least 47 people have been killed, nearly 700 injured, and thousands are displaced from their homes. Homes, schools, churches, roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure have sustained damage or been completely destroyed, leaving many families in need of temporary shelter as they begin the long process of recovery. Ongoing aftershocks, the risk of landslides, and damage to transportation and communication networks continue to complicate relief efforts.
The Asia-Pacific region of the Church of the Nazarene calls the global church to prayer:
“Please pray for the people affected by this earthquake. Pray for God's protection, comfort, and provision for families and communities facing uncertainty and fear. Also, pray for the church to be a source of hope and compassion during this time, seizing every opportunity to serve, support, and share Christ's love with those in need.”
Lord, we come to you with hearts that hurt for all who are grappling with the impact of this earthquake in the Philippines. We think of all who lost loved ones, hurting people recovering from injuries, and families displaced from their homes. Be with first responders as they serve and support their communities. Send your comfort and strength to those who are in need. Lord, hear our prayers.
Ebola Deaths Reach 136 in Democratic Republic of Congo
An Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to worsen. As of June 10, 2026, health authorities had confirmed 676 cases, including 136 deaths and 19 recoveries. More than 90% of cases have been reported in Ituri Province, though the outbreak has also spread to North Kivu, South Kivu, and neighboring Uganda, where 19 confirmed cases and two deaths have been reported.
Response efforts face significant challenges. Nearly one million people have been displaced by conflict in the affected region, making it difficult to trace contacts and provide care. Ongoing violence, attacks on health workers, community mistrust, and limited access to remote communities continue to hinder containment efforts. Health officials believe the true number of infections may be higher because the outbreak circulated for weeks before being detected and contact tracing remains below target levels.
The Africa region of the Church of the Nazarene shares this update with the global church:
The Church of the Nazarene has long served communities facing conflict, disasters, and public health emergencies. We encourage churches, ministry teams, and partners throughout the world to remain informed, pray for affected communities, support response efforts where appropriate, and continue ministry with wisdom, compassion, and confidence.
We invite the global Nazarene family to pray for:
- Individuals and families affected by the outbreak
- Healthcare workers and response teams
- Government and public health leaders
- Churches serving vulnerable communities
- Wisdom for leaders making decisions regarding travel and ministry activities
- The successful containment of the outbreak and restoration of affected communities
Our God, you promise to be near to the brokenhearted. We know that as this disease spreads, so does fear, anxiety, and grief. Comfort all who are afraid and all who lost family members and loved ones in this outbreak. Work through healthcare staff and first responders as they care for the sick and dying, and lead public health officials as they formulate the right type of response. We pray for a swift end to this outbreak.
Praising God for Ministry to Aboriginal Children in Australia
In Australia, a compassionate outreach focused on caring for young children from Aboriginal families continues to provide a safe, nurturing environment while building trust in the community, the last remaining Aboriginal community in metropolitan Perth.
Although participation has remained small, the impact has been significant. One family with twin boys who live with autism attends regularly, and both the children and their parents have experienced meaningful support through the program. Church leaders report growing trust between First Nations families and the broader Church of the Nazarene, with increased participation in district gatherings and stronger relationships across cultural lines.
The playgroup offers children a safe place to play, learn, and receive nutritious snacks while providing encouragement, fellowship, and spiritual support for parents. Weekly worship and prayer times bring families together, and volunteers use the opportunity to share Christ’s love with both children and caregivers. One young couple involved in the program has stopped using drugs, grown in their faith, and now shares their testimony with neighbors and family members. Leaders see these changes as evidence of God’s transforming work, impacting entire families one relationship at a time.
God, we praise you for this creative ministry that is meeting the needs of young families while providing cross-cultural connection and support. Continue to uplift those who serve in this ministry, giving them strength and compassion as they care for their neighbors. Move among the wider community to allow deeper relationships and connections to form. Lord, hear our prayers.