Thursday 21 September marks the International Day of Peace, a day set aside by the United Nations for everyone around the world to devote to keeping peace. Sadly, for many countries where Tearfund serves, it will be just another day of conflict. This week, pray for peace to come in Myanmar, Ethiopia, Yemen, Burkina Faso, Ukraine, South Sudan and Nigeria in Jesus’ name.
Sunday 17 September
The crisis in Myanmar continues. Violent internal conflict in the country has forced tens of thousands of people from their homes. The turmoil has created a desperate humanitarian situation. The prayers of God’s people are urgently needed. Ask God that essential aid will reach people in need, that resources will flow to humanitarian organisations, and pray for the crisis to end.
Monday 18 September
Ethiopia has now passed its sixth consecutive failed rainy season and drought is affecting 24 million people. Conflicts across the country are also disrupting lives and hampering humanitarian organisations, including Tearfund, from delivering aid. Pray for the peace deal secured last year to hold and for support to reach the most vulnerable.
Tuesday 19 September
Almost a year after a ceasefire expired in Yemen, praise God that the truce has largely remained as peace talks and negotiations move forward. However, the economy continues to deteriorate and food prices have skyrocketed, therefore the humanitarian situation in the country remains dire. Around 21.6 million people (about two thirds of the population) are in need of humanitarian assistance and 80 per cent struggle to access food, water and basic services. Pray for a lasting peace agreement, and for protection for communities and Tearfund’s partner staff, as they live and work in extremely challenging circumstances.
Wednesday 20 September
Burkina Faso has grown increasingly unstable as armed groups intensify attacks. Last year, there were two military coups. Tearfund partner Office for Development of Evangelical Church is training people like Zangré from Dourou village to become peace champions. Give thanks for Zangré, who says, ‘I have helped resolve latent land conflicts, restoring peace.’
Thursday 21 September
The war in Ukraine caused the world’s fastest, largest displacement crisis in decades. Over a year since the start of the conflict, Tearfund’s Christian partners are working persistently to meet the immediate needs of these refugees – providing support such as food, bedding and accommodation. Pray for a secure peace so families can return home.
Friday 22 September
Although the civil war ended in 2018, there is still widespread localised fighting across South Sudan. The country faces crisis levels of hunger, life-threatening malnutrition and some of the worst cases of infant mortality in the world. Lift up Tearfund’s 33 health centres that are helping to improve maternal health and prevent malnutrition.
Saturday 23 September
‘We believe that God is sovereign over everything that is happening in Nigeria,’ says Joseph Aloo, who leads Tearfund’s work there. ‘Although the violence that has plagued our people for years can be overwhelming, God is in control and our team is partnering with God to bring transformation.’ Lift up Joseph and his team and ask God to give them strength and perseverance as they bring about transformation, promote peace and encourage reconciliation.
