Weekly Prayer Update
Friday, May 17, 2024
South American Darian Gap Child Migration Numbers Rise
An increase in the number of children moving through the Darien Gap, a dangerous section of jungle that bridges South and Central America, is projected to make this the fifth consecutive year of record levels of child migration in the area. According to UNICEF, in the first four months of 2024, more than 30,000 children crossed the Darian Gap, a 40 percent increase compared to the same time frame last year. About 2,000 of those children were unaccompanied minors. There is no road, medical support, law enforcement, or humanitarian support in the jungle passage, and the hike is exceedingly dangerous. Those making the crossing are often robbed, extorted, or abused by cartels that control the area.
The hundreds of thousands of people who make this perilous journey are fleeing difficult or dangerous conditions in their home countries, looking for a safe place to stay or a way to improve their economic standing. The vast majority come from Latin American countries, but people from African and Asian countries also take this dangerous and unprotected route to access Central and North America.
Nazarene churches across Latin America provide care for people on the journey through food distribution and spiritual support. Compassionate outreach ministries like child development centers and economic development projects seek to empower children and families facing economic crises, giving them the tools needed to survive.
We pray for children and teens who, along with their families, make the arduous journey through the Darien Gap. We know they are at risk, so we ask for you to protect these children and encourage their hearts. Give their parents wisdom and assistance and provide sustainable solutions for their needs. May they find hospitality on their journey. Lord, hear our prayers./em>
Impact of Flooding in Brazil
According to weather experts, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil’s southernmost state, may struggle with flooding for weeks to come. So far this month, parts of the state have seen more than 25 inches of rain. Lake Guaiba has again risen beyond the flood level, threatening the state capital of Porto Alegre. The failure of aging water pumps in the region led to massive floods, forcing at least 600,000 people from their homes. At least 149 people have died.
Nazarene churches in the area are collecting food, water, clothing, and other supplies to support those who are displaced, even as they face their own cleanup projects in the days to come. In Canoas, the church building and parsonage are both flooded. Church buildings in Eldorado do Sul, Novo Hamburgo, Venâncio Aires, and Viamão took on water. Nazarene members in these areas also have experienced flood damage. So far, there are no known deaths of pastors or church members.
God, we pray for all who are suffering after these floods in Brazil. Give them strength and endurance while they recover, and keep all who are impacted protected during their displacement. Provide food, water, medicines, and other vital aid quickly to the region through the many churches and agencies seeking to serve the vulnerable. Lord, hear our prayers.
Refugee and Immigrant Support Ministries
Around the world, 114 million individuals are living forcibly displaced due to violence, persecution and human rights violations. These are seeking safety, opportunity, and a chance to live with dignity. Nazarene Compassionate Ministries partners with local churches to support refugees and immigrants through education for children, assistance for persecuted Christians, emergency relief for families in crisis, and support for families who have been resettled.
We pray for those living as refugees and immigrants. Protect them from dangers, including illness, human trafficking, and conflict. May they find welcome wherever they settle, and may they find strength and hope in You. Lord, hear our prayers.