06/05/2026
Prayer Update
*Weekly Prayer Update*
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➡️ Continued Struggles for Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh
Nearly a decade after fleeing violence and persecution in Myanmar, approximately 1.2 million Rohingya refugees continue to live in Bangladesh, years after the displacement crisis began in 2017. The situation remains difficult for refugee families, with increased conflict in recent years forcing additional people to flee. Since early 2024, an estimated 150,000 Rohingya have arrived in Bangladesh, adding pressure to already overcrowded refugee camps and settlements.
Life in the camps is not easy. Many families have lived in displacement for years with limited opportunities to support themselves. In 2025, 35% of refugee households depended entirely on food aid, while many others relied on temporary or unstable sources of income. New arrivals, women and girls, older adults, and people with disabilities often face the greatest challenges.
As violence and instability continue in Myanmar's Rakhine State, hopes for a safe return home remain uncertain. Many refugees have spent years without a permanent solution. Some have resorted to dangerous sea journeys in search of safety and opportunity elsewhere. In April 2026, a vessel carrying more than 270 people, many of them Rohingya refugees, capsized, leaving only nine survivors.
The Church of the Nazarene in Bangladesh has been active over the years to reach out to care for Rohingya families living in camps, and Nazarenes in Myanmar are also working to be peacemakers and bring the hope of Jesus into their own communities, despite ongoing conflict around them.
🙏 God, we know you are the Prince of Peace. Bring your peace to Myanmar. Bring your peace into refugee camps. Bring your peace into the hearts of all who would wage war or sow violence. Protect these new refugees in Bangladesh, and help them find a safe place to reside, and enough food and income to support their needs. Protect all who live in camps from disease, fear, and stress. We eagerly look forward to a future where displacement is not common and home is a safe place to be. Lord, hear these earnest prayers.
➡️ Recovery Continues in the Western Pacific after Typhoon Sinlaku
In April, Typhoon Sinlaku brought widespread destruction across the western Pacific, causing severe damage in Chuuk State in the Federated States of Micronesia. The winds and rain significantly impacted Saipan and Tinian in the Northern Mariana Islands, and, to a lesser extent, the island of Guam.
More than 34,000 people were affected in Chuuk alone, more than 13,000 were temporarily displaced, and approximately 7,000 homes are damaged or destroyed. Across the region, at least 17 people lost their lives as a result of the storm.
Today, the recovery process continues. Many families continue to face shortages of food and safe drinking water, damaged homes and infrastructure, disrupted health services, and ongoing challenges in accessing education.
In response, Nazarene churches in Guam, Saipan, and Chuuk are supporting approximately 350 people with emergency relief, including food, clean water, hygiene supplies, cooking fuel, batteries, and other household necessities. While immediate assistance continues, many communities remain in recovery mode, particularly in areas where homes, schools, water systems, and health facilities sustained significant damage. Churches are also preparing for longer-term recovery efforts, including disaster preparedness training, trauma care, and child-safe spaces to help communities heal and build resilience for the future.
🙏 Lord, we lift up the people who rode out this storm, some losing their lives in the process. Comfort all who are mourning a loved one. For the thousands who can no longer live at home at all, or are faced with expensive and extensive repairs in order to return home, be their strength and support. Swiftly move aid to help those who are most vulnerable or in need of support. Lord, hear our prayers.
➡️ Praising God for Ministry to Refugees in Poland
Many women and children who fled the war in Ukraine have found safety in Poland. In Poznań, a Nazarene coffee shop called Sweet Surrender serves as a welcoming space where displaced women can experience fellowship, belonging, and hospitality rooted in the love of Christ.
Through a variety of programs, the ministry helps these families rebuild their lives and connect with their new community. Language classes help attendees learn Polish and adapt to life in their adopted culture, while summer activities provide children and teenagers with safe spaces to build friendships and enjoy meaningful experiences.
The coffee shop also offers opportunities for emotional and spiritual care. A weekly tea club creates space for encouragement and support, while worship services and free counseling appointments help women process the trauma of war and find hope and healing through Christ.
🙏 Lord, we praise you for this ministry in Poland that has faithfully served the refugee population for more than four years. We celebrate their good work during trying times, and the sense of community and comfort this space provides. Encourage all who serve or work there, and may your Spirit be present in every activity and meeting. Lord, hear our prayers.
