Weekly Prayer Update
Friday, November 22, 2024
Strong Storm in U.S. Northwest
A powerful "bomb cyclone" (so named when a cyclone intensifies rapidly) storm came ashore in the U.S. Northwest this week, causing widespread damage from strong winds, heavy rain, and snow. In Washington state, the storm downed trees, killing at least two people and leaving 460,000 without power. The region also saw school closures and dangerous travel conditions. In Northern California and southwestern Oregon, up to 16 inches of rain were forecast, with flash flooding, rockslides, and debris flows a serious threat. Wind gusts exceeding 75 mph and heavy snow in mountainous areas created additional hazards, including travel restrictions and school closures.
The storm's impacts stretched beyond the Pacific Northwest, with severe winter weather affecting the Dakotas and Minnesota, where up to 16 inches of snow were expected. In Oregon and California, dangerous conditions prompted road closures while ferry routes were halted in Washington. Alaska also faced high winds, with gusts up to 60 mph in Juneau. The National Weather Service issued multiple warnings for hazardous weather, urging people to stay safe and avoid travel in affected areas. So far, no impact has been reported from Nazarene churches in the area.
We pray for those dealing with the lasting effects of this strong storm—power outages, rains, snow, and wind. Bring your comfort and peace to the families mourning the loss of their loved ones. Provide for those who are cut off from essential services and resources. Lord, hear our prayers.
Tropical Storm Sara in Central America
Tropical Storm Sara, which formed in the western Caribbean, made landfall on the northern coast of Honduras last week, causing heavy rainfall and flooding across Central America. The storm dumped up to 40 inches of rain in some areas, particularly in Honduras, Belize, and parts of El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Mexico’s Quintana Roo state. Sara’s slow movement heightened flooding risks, with swollen rivers trapping residents and leading to evacuations. At least two people lost their lives in the storm.
Two days later, Sara weakened to a tropical depression after crossing Belize, but flash floods and mudslides from excessive rain remained a serious threat. The storm’s impact was particularly devastating in areas still recovering from Hurricanes Eta and Iota in 2020, which caused similar flooding. In Guatemala, several Nazarene churches opened their doors to serve as shelters for people who had to leave their homes to escape flooding.
Lord, we pray for the people of Central America who are dealing with the aftermath of Sara. We ask your care and help for all who had to evacuate their homes. Guide them to the right resources and assistance so they can rebuild and recover. Provide food for the hungry, and protection for those who are vulnerable in these communities. Lord, hear our prayers.
2024 Christmas Project: Empowering Women, Uplifting Communities
Gender inequality denies women and girls their inherent, God-given dignity. When women can’t contribute to support their children’s needs, entire communities suffer.
Empowering women to earn an income and support their families helps close these and other gender gaps. Education and employment lead to widespread benefits, including improved child nutrition, better health, and opportunities like small business ownership.
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries is working in partnership with local Nazarene churches in Ethiopia, Liberia, and Ghana to support the empowerment and dignity of women and girls. Your donation to the 2024 Christmas Project will help fund these efforts.
Learn more: ncm.org/christmas
We pray for women who struggle to provide for themselves and their families. For those who don't know where their next meal will come from, for those who cannot afford their children's school fees, and for those who must work very long hours to survive. Lord, thank you for compassionate projects that give women new opportunities to grow and achieve. Through them, may those in need feel your love and care. Lord, hear our prayers.