Pray for Missions

Thousands of Ukrainian war refugees are living in the UK. Read about one family who reached out by clicking the link.

United Kingdom and Ukraine
NMI Central, 13 November 2024
Ukraine’s most recent history has been fraught with all the dysfunction, dislocation, and destruction that war brings. The war between Russia and Ukraine has been ongoing since 2014, but the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which occurred in February 2022, has left both countries scarred by the conflict. Nearly 6.5 million Ukrainian refugees are registered internationally, and some 247,000 are in the UK. Today’s story is about one of them and the church connections that have given her new life and hope.
2,989 Members
70 Fully Organized Churches; 1 Not Yet Organized Church
23 District Licensed, and 142 Ordained Ministers on 2 Districts

PRAYER
Pray for those scarred by war on both sides of the conflict and for those displaced by it.
Pray that the Lord will encourage more churches and individuals to embrace the disenfranchised.
Pray for peace to be restored in the region

PRAISE
Praise God for families willing to change their normal routines, who open their homes and lives to help others.
Praise the Lord for a global church that helps refugees and for all who have participated in compassionate efforts across borders to bless those displaced.
Praise God that churches of the Nazarene in both Russia and Ukraine are continuing to minister to those most impacted by the war.

The Medranda Molina family, moved by the love of God, has started two preaching points in an area 90 kilometers from their home.

Ecuador
NMI Central 6 November 2024

The work of the Church of the Nazarene began here in 1972. The challenges of large populations of refugees from neighboring countries have stretched Ecuador’s economy, leaving many of the indigenous, mixed race, and rural populations impoverished. There are many areas of the country where the Church of the Nazarene is looking to plant new churches. These areas require a pioneer spirit, one that can be seen in the story that follows. The work of the Church of the Nazarene began here in 1972. The challenges of large populations of refugees from neighboring countries have stretched Ecuador’s economy, leaving many of the indigenous, mixed race, and rural populations impoverished. There are many areas of the country where the Church of the Nazarene is looking to plant new churches. These areas require a pioneer spirit. Read about one family that is sharing the Gospel and planting churches in rural Ecuador HERE.

22,071 Members
214 Fully Organized Churches; 48 Not Yet Organized Churches
100 District Licensed, and 112 Ordained Ministers on 6 Districts
PRAYER

Pray for all leaders being trained in the Living the Great Commission program (VGC); that a passionate fire for evangelism and discipline will continue to bear fruit.
Pray for the district missions leaders trained to serve in their districts, committed to sustain missions worldwide.
Pray for our churches that are located in areas with limited security due to current political unrest.

PRAISE

Praise the Lord that the church is responding through Nazarene Compassionate Ministries (NCM) to meet the needs of more than 450 families affected by landslides in Alausi and Esmeraldas.
Praise the Lord for the agreement between the Church and the Ecuadorian Ministry of Culture, allowing us to preach the gospel in the main plazas of Quito.

Haiti
NMI Central, 9 October, 2024

Haiti’s history is a story of occupation, oppression, and forced labor for the benefit of wealthier countries, as well as political unrest. The Church of the Nazarene began its work in Haiti in 1950, and the people of Haiti have been eager to hear the Gospel. Compassionate ministries have laid the foundations for many of the congregations and churches that seek to be the presence of Christ in this country so impacted by earthquakes and hurricanes, civil unrest, displacement, and chaos. The current unrest began in 2018 and has escalated since then. Continue to pray for Haiti that the hopeful light of Christ will break through the darkness there.

147,182 Members
755 Fully Organized Churches; 22 Not Yet Organized Churches
197 District Licensed and 292 Ordained Ministers on 12 Districts

PRAYER

Pray for peace. Since 2018, when there were many missionaries and much work being done, the escalating conflict has disrupted life and ministry every day and everywhere.
Pray for God to raise up leaders from the new generation. Overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty about the future, many are hesitant to make a long-term commitment.
Pray for the work of the Nazarene seminary in Haiti and its administration, faculty, and students, who are having to adapt teaching and learning to the current situation.

PRAISE

Praise God that “the church is still marching on.” There are new opportunities in the midst of the many challenges to bring Christ to the streets and neighborhoods of Haiti.
Praise God that within the compound of the seminary, built in 1950, located outside Port-au-Prince, there is safety, and it has become a refuge for many in these uncertain times.

Since 2018, life in Haiti has been marked by conflict, terror in the streets, collapsing infrastructures, and political and economic dysfunction. Many have had to flee Haiti for safer places until things calm down, and each story is filled with all the positives and negatives of making such a move in the midst of a crisis. One such story is that of the principal of the Nazarene Bible College in Haiti, Pierre Ernst Jacques, and his wife, Tayler, who was expecting twins. They left Haiti and ended up in Eastern Kentucky, USA, where Tayler had been raised. Unfortunately, they lost the twins.
Due to visa status issues, they have been delayed in getting back to Haiti, but the timing in the USA has been blessed with a long-awaited dream fulfilled: ordination in the Church of the Nazarene. This ordination was quite unique; Jacques recounts: “No general superintendent has been able to physically be in Haiti since 2018 due to COVID and safety due to all the political unrest. This made it impossible for ordinations to take place.” “I was looking for opportunities, wherever there was an ordination nearby, that I could go to and be ordained remotely.” The district superintendent of Eastern Kentucky, Rev. Doug Wyatt, heard of this and set about trying to make this happen during their upcoming district assembly. After six years of waiting, Pierre was ordained an elder in the Church of the Nazarene remotely during the Eastern Kentucky district assembly. His church family back in Haiti was able to watch and follow the service online.

The situation in Haiti continues to be dire. There are some 800 Churches of the Nazarene in Haiti that still gather for worship, though we know of at least 27 that have been shut down due to the unrest. Many still gather for worship but at great risk.
The Nazarene Theological Seminary in Haiti is still functioning, though primarily online. Many students are working on the completing the Course of Study for ordination on their cell phones. Creative solutions must be sought, experimented with, and perfected to ensure quality of preparation, even in times of upheaval. Students hope to return to in-person classes in the coming months.
The campus has become a place of refuge for the displaced who have no safe place to go. In all that this story represents, God demonstrates his love to his children in the midst of cruel and unhappy times. Continued prayer is called for in this situation, and only the Prince of Peace can make the needed difference in Haiti.

USA/Canada Region - Alaska, USA
NMI Central, 2 October, 2024
Alaska is noted for its dramatic landscapes and its indomitable and resilient population. That spirit is also reflected in the Church of the Nazarene in Alaska, which, although on the distant edges of the North American continent, participates fully in doing its part for the global mission of the Church. The 29 organized and developing churches of the Alaska District have faithfully participated in the global mission of the Church of the Nazarene and its impact around the world through giving and prayer.

567,633 Members (USA/Canada)
4,327 Fully Organized Churches; 726 Not Yet Organized Churches (USA/Canada)
2,177 District Licensed and 11,245 Ordained Ministers on 73 Districts (USA/Canada)
PRAYER

Pray that God will multiply the generosity of the Alaska District as a witness to his greatness, love, and provision.
Pray that Nazarenes worldwide would fervently pray for the Church's global mission and generously support the World Evangelism Fund.

PRAISE

Praise God that lives are being transformed worldwide through the World Evangelism Fund, bringing joy, celebration, and glory to his name.
Praise God for Alaska District's faithful commitment to the World Evangelism Fund, fueling global missions and spreading the gospel's transformative power.

Alaska's breathtaking landscape and vast wilderness are matched by its people's generous spirit and missionary heart. The Alaska District of the Church of the Nazarene has a remarkable history of supporting the World Evangelism Fund, dating back to 1951. That year, the newly formed district paid its entire mission-funding allotment in full, setting a precedent that would continue for decades. In 2024, the district celebrated its 74th consecutive year of fully paying its World Evangelism Fund allotment.

More than 2,500 young people of the South America Region of the Church of the Nazarene met in Peru in August 2024 to learn about the call to serve in missions.

South America Region
NMI Central, 11 September, 2024
The South America Region is comprised of four fields: Andes North (Colombia-1975, Venezuela-1982, and Ecuador-1972); Andes Central (Peru-1914 and Bolivia-1945); Southern Cone (Argentina-1919, Chile-1962, Uruguay-1949, and Paraguay-1980); and the sub-region of Brazil (Brazil-1958). Spanish is the predominant language of most of the region, with Portuguese as the official language of Brazil. There is a strong missions focus in South America, with many missionaries from that region serving around the world. This passion is felt in every generation and is finding new expressions of missions service and opportunities for young people who sense a call to serve through missions.
322,431 Members
2,495 Organized Churches; 437 Not Yet Organized Churches
2,035 District Licensed and 2,038 Ordained Ministers on 83 Districts
73 Missionaries come from the South America Region; 93 Missionaries serve on the South America Region

PRAYER

Pray that God’s calling would remain alive in the hearts of the youth that were a part of Kaleo.
Pray for churches, pastors, and leaders who accompany young new pastors and missionaries as they begin their ministerial journey.
Pray for the church planting process in South America, which will focus on cities without a Church of the Nazarene.

PRAISE

Praise the Lord for the doors that were opened to the more than 2,500 youth from South America who were part of Kaleo.
Praise the Lord for the many who are training for ministry and missions through the ministerial education programs of the South America Region.

God placed the KALEO (Called) conference on the hearts of youth leaders in the South America Region with the purpose of seeking 1,002 (Luke 10:2) new workers, called to serve in missions, in pastoral work, in church planting, and to be professional disciples committed to their mission.
Almost 400 young people signed up for the workshop “New Global Contexts and Missionary Opportunities.". The workshop showed the needs of the world and challenged the young people to find their place in the mission, whether going out as missionaries or being a part of the sending church. Many opportunities for service in the Church of the Nazarene were shared with this enthusiastic group. Hundreds of young people responded to God’s “Kaleo” to take the next step and get involved, both in the local church and in cross-cultural missionary experiences.

The Church of the Nazarene in Lisbon, Portugal, in their new, expanded worship space.

Portugal
NMI Central, 7 August 2024

Portugal is the oldest nation-state in Europe. Its defined borders have not changed since the 12th century. The Church of the Nazarene began work in Portugal in 1973. More than 40% of Portugal’s population is between the ages of 25 and 54 years, which prompts an energetic culture. The Church of the Nazarene in Portugal is trying imaginative new approaches to ministry, including church buildings, that are breathing new life into work there.

1,060 Members
18 Fully Organized Churches; 1 Not Yet Organized Church
3 District Licensed and 18 Ordained Ministers on 1 District

PRAYER

Pray for this group of believers to add more people to their faith community.
Pray for others to be encouraged to seek God for answers.

PRAISE

Praise God for allowing us to be part of his miracles.
Praise God for the creative vision he gives those who ask.

Philippines
NMI Central, 29 May 2024.

On 4 July 1946, the Republic of the Philippines attained full independence, and the Church of the Nazarene established work here in that same year. Since then, the Philippines has experienced significant ups and downs in the political and economic climate, and foreign terrorism has impacted the security of this ethnically diverse country. Many Filipinos work abroad in a variety of fields as domestic workers and caregivers, as well as maritime employment in both commercial and tourism. Those Filipino Nazarenes who go abroad to work carry with them an evangelistic heart and a message of Scriptural Holiness. Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary (APNTS) is located on the outskirts of Manila, with a student body from across the Asia-Pacific Region. In June 2023, the Global NMI Convention elected Christine Mosuela, from the Philippines, as the new global NMI president.

34,871 Members
407 Fully Organized Churches; 56 Not Yet Organized Churches
190 District Licensed and 294 Ordained Ministers on 11 Districts

PRAYER

Pray for the workers in the pioneering areas, that God will empower them as they plant churches in places where the Church of the Nazarene has not yet gone.
Pray for the continued preparation of pastors and leaders through APNTS to serve the Philippines and the wider Asia-Pacific Region.

PRAISE

Praise God for local churches in the Philippines that are participating in the mission of making disciples through their generous giving to Alabaster.
Praise God for the spiritual vitality of Nazarenes in the Philippines and for those who carry a vibrant witness when they travel abroad for work in other countries.

On 28 July 2023, ANU graduated 907 individuals who received doctoral, master's, bachelor's, and post graduate diplomas, as well as diplomas and special executive certificates in various disciplines. Africa Nazarene University offers education and training at the highest levels through its schools of business, law, humanities and social sciences, religion and Christian ministries, and science and information technology.

Kenya
NMI Central, 8 May 2024

The Church of the Nazarene began work in Kenya in 1984 and immediately saw the need for education to address literacy rates in the country as well as a growing HIV/AIDS crisis and significant poverty, all related to a lack of education. Africa Nazarene University (ANU) was established not only in response to these critical issues but also to train highly competent leaders in a variety of disciplines for Kenya, Africa, and beyond. Africa Nazarene University has experienced several years of transitions in leadership, and new generations of leaders are emerging.

35,576 Members
230 Fully Organized, and 197 Not Yet Organized Churches
284 District Licensed and 126 Ordained Ministers on 7 Districts

PRAYER

Pray for the vice chancellor and management team who lead Africa Nazarene University.
Pray for the faculty, staff, students, and their families who form the ANU community at a critical time in the country.
Pray for the many students who graduated from ANU this year, that God will use them in transformative ways in their societies.
Pray for God’s provision and protection for the institution over the coming five years.
Pray that God will call many to study at Africa Nazarene University and that the Church of the Nazarene in Kenya will contribute to the sustainability of the university for God’s glory.

PRAISE

Praise God for the impact of Africa Nazarene University on the continent of Africa.
Praise the Lord for the many who have graduated from Africa Nazarene University over the years.
Praise God for the significant impact these graduates have made across the African continent and beyond.

Seven years ago, there was one Nazarene church in Mongolia. Today, there are seven organized churches, with 3 more soon to be organized. God is raising disciple-makers who are courageously and creatively reaching out to their neighbors to share the Gospel and plant new churches. God is growing his Church in Mongolia!

Mongolia
NMI Central 24 April 2024.

Mongolia declared its independence in 1911, though this has often been unstable. Mongolia is one of the least densely populated countries in the world. The Church of the Nazarene established its work in Mongolia in 2017 and is actively planting new churches, often in homes (called yurts—round structures of stretched fabric of hides over wooden lattices or poles).

60 Members
7 Fully Organized Churches
29 District Licensed Ministers

PRAYER

Pray for our churches to experience continued spiritual renewal and growth in Christlikeness.
Pray for the 29 district licensed ministers as they complete the Course of Study and other requirements for ordination.
Pray for the Church of the Nazarene to be a testimony to the unity of the Holy Spirit among believers.

PRAISE

Praise God for churches that are growing as disciples are made and leaders are equipped for service.
Praise God for the 5th Annual Holiness Gathering that was held in August 2023, where 400 people gathered together to grow as Christlike disciples.

A home church in Sofia, Bulgaria

Bulgaria
NMI Central, 10 April 2024

Bulgaria became independent, and in 1994, the Church of the Nazarene opened work here. Bulgaria achieved member status in the European Union (EU) in 2007. As with many of the countries of the former Soviet and Eastern Bloc, there has been a significant exodus of young people in search of well-paid jobs and higher education, leaving the past of Communist rule and the instability of the country due to widespread corruption behind. This, along with the fact that religious freedom is still not fully achieved in Bulgaria, impacts church development and sustainability.

Discrimination against Turks and Roma people groups (comprising over 14% of the population) is significant, and the need to introduce the grace of God, which breaks down the dividing walls of prejudice is imperative, and educational ministries are critical. It is also significant that over 27% of the Bulgarian population makes no faith claim or is unspecified in religious connections. The story that follows is an indication that "church" may be reimagined for a new generation of Bulgarians and a sense of belonging can be a magnet, drawing the young to a home in Jesus.

230 Members
5 Fully Organized Churches; 1 Not Yet Organized Church
2 District Licensed and 5 Ordained Ministers on 1 District

PRAYER

Pray for the development of leaders in the church.
Pray for believers to become members of the Church of the Nazarene.
Pray for the lost to discover the love of Christ.
Pray for new ways for the Home(made) church to serve those in Sofia.

PRAISE

Praise God for new believers in Sofia.
Praise God for the health of the church.
Praise God for opportunities to share Christ’s love.

Sofia, Bulgaria
Just over a year ago, there was no Church of the Nazarene in Sofia, Bulgaria. But the Lord is moving in an uncommon way. Now, there is a local Church of the Nazarene in this incredible city. In the past year God has brought together a new local expression of the body of Christ into what is the “Home(made) Church.”
Over the past year, this new church has served others in the city of Sofia: cleaning playgrounds and partnering with a ministry to orphans in Bulgaria. They have donated items to refugees, provided translation and social help to refugees needing housing and work, and have contributed funds to disaster relief.
They have also begun contributing regularly to the World Evangelism Fund; they support European Nazarene College (EuNC) as their education provider for the preparation of ministers and they support district ministries. Recently, they received their first Alabaster Offering. They celebrated the occasion by telling the story of how the house where they meet was built with Alabaster funds. A parade followed this as the children came jingling their boxes and jars for Alabaster.

In recent months, the church has continued to grow as college students from Sofia University have discovered the church and joined in worship. New believers are coming to Christ, and others are growing deeper in their walk of faith with Him. On a Sunday not long ago, the church met with over a dozen children, sharing the story of Christ washing the disciples’ feet. The children washed each other’s feet while the adults discussed what it means to continue serving in Sofia as the Body of Christ.

Haiti
The following is an update and request for prayer from the Mesoamerica Region for the ongoing upheaval and chaos in Haiti.

Since the 7 July 2021 assassination of Jovenel Moïse, president-elect, and the fall of state institutions, Haiti has been living in a crisis that has affected Haitians across the country.
During the last three years, gangs have committed acts of vandalism, such as kidnappings, robberies, fires, and many others. The gangs launched attacks in peaceful areas of the capital, looting homes and forcing people to flee for their lives, displacing more than 350,000 people within Port-au-Prince, the capital city, since January 2023.
A vast majority of the displaced take refuge in schools or public parks. The Nazarene seminary campus also has been serving as a shelter for 59 displaced persons.
According to civil rights organizations operating in the country, the gangs currently control more than 80% of Port-au-Prince.
Gangs continue to affect the current administration. The international airport has been closed. On 2 March, criminal gangs launched an attack on the capital's two largest prisons, freeing more than 5,000 prisoners. The government of Haiti (what remains of it) declared a state of emergency for a month and imposed, with immediate effect, a curfew to restore order.
The primary market within the capital, Marché Salomon, was looted and set on fire, as well as a nearby police station, forcing the police to retreat.
The street demonstrations and violence that began on 3 February 2024 have led to the closure of all public and private schools in the capital. Many of the state buildings and infrastructure were looted and set on fire by the gangs, keeping them closed.
Several banks in the capital were also vandalized, and two major private hospitals in the capital were set on fire, forcing patients to leave. Most gas stations remain closed.
The brutal attacks and crime incidents have resulted in a severe shortage of food products, and the price of food has increased considerably.
"In addition to insecurity, the Haitian population is now going hungry more than ever," said Ephraim Lindor, coordinator of Nazarene Compassionate Ministries in Haiti.
Persecuted by the gangs, several of the local Nazarene churches closed their doors, and the members dispersed. Many have left the capital for villages where they have relatives. Those with nowhere to go took refuge in public parks or schools.
According to Lindor, NCM Haiti is working on short as well as long-term plans to help its communities, while also knocking on the doors of other institutions to join them in helping those most affected.
NCM Haiti requests prayer for the following:

Pray that God will raise wholehearted leaders to lead the country.
Pray for peace to return soon.
Pray for the field office in Haiti and specifically for NCM.
Pray for pastors whose churches are closed and whose members are scattered.

--Church of the Nazarene Mesoamerica Region

Jesus is known, and his message of love opens doors for evangelism and compassionate engagement with many who have little to live on, who walk great distances for water, and who have no electricity. Simplicity is not an impediment to faith and worship.

Nicaragua
NMI Central 17 March 2024

Nicaragua gained its independence from Spain in September of 1821 and has been an independent republic since 1838. However, its more recent history has been marked by dictatorship and civil war, with swings right and left in its politics, leaving Nicaragua one of the poorest nations in Latin America. This has created a diaspora of Nicaraguans in other countries seeking some stability. Costa Rica is the country to which the largest number of working Nicaraguans emigrate, with the harvest of bananas and coffee attracting the most seasonal migration. Nicaragua has struggled to progress in its elimination of human trafficking, and low income and seasonal migration of adults to work outside the country has left the young vulnerable to sex and labor trafficking. The Church of the Nazarene established work in Nicaragua in 1937. For over 80 years, the Church of the Nazarene in Nicaragua has been touching many lives with the resurrection message of Jesus, who brings life and hope.

15,941 Members
205 Organized Churches; 16 Not Yet Organized Churches
89 District Licensed and 115 Ordained Ministers on 4 Districts

PRAYER

Pray for retired pastors who have given their lives to the mission of the Church of the Nazarene, some of whose health is very precarious.
Pray for a fresh commitment by next generations to the mission of God.
Pray that God will call and send workers into his harvest field in Nicaragua.

PRAISE

Praise God because he has opened doors to preach his word in places where we thought it would not be possible.
Praise God for servants who have taken up the cross and followed him to bring his word to areas facing difficult situations.

Javier was miraculously saved from a life of drug trafficking and addiction. He now leads small groups where he shares the gospel with others who are caught in that life. His story exemplifies how the church has risen like a torch amid darkness and continues to impact people's lives.

Argentina
NMI Central 14 February 2024

Located on the South America Region, within an area now known as the Southern Cone, Argentina is known for its long history of immigration. The vast majority of its population is European (mainly of Spanish and Italian descent) and mestizo (a mixture of European and Amerindian).The work of the Church of the Nazarene in Argentina began in 1919. Nine of ten people in Argentina say they are Christians; however, most of those admit to not practicing their faith.
21,314 Members
233 Fully Organized Churches; 15 Not Yet Organized Churches
210 District Licensed and 179 Ordained Ministers on 12 Districts
PRAYER

Pray for the Nazarene Theological Seminary in Argentina, with more than 1,250 students, 220 teachers, and 54 extension centers, serving the four countries of the Southern Cone.
Pray that the Holy Spirit will empower new leaders being trained through programs such as Planting Essentials, NexGen, and Alpha.

PRAISE

Praise God, for despite social and economic crises in the country, new generations are responding to God’s call to missions.
Praise God for new and re-emerging churches that are being established and for the church planting teams have been able to plant 28 churches.

A Church of the Nazarene in the Netherlands is addressing refugee needs with creativity. To help with learning Dutch, the church facilitates a “Language Café” at a local community center.

The Netherlands
NMI Central 7 February 2024

The Netherlands is a country of wide diversity due to its rich past in trade around the world. It is known for its tolerance, open-mindedness, and its progressive thinking. There is a strong sense of social consciousness and responsibility in Dutch churches, so a variety of compassionate ministries are ongoing, with new ones developing through local churches to meet the needs of changing communities.
2,083 Members
12 Fully Organized Churches; 2 Not Yet Organized Churches
9 District Licensed and 22 Ordained Ministers on 1 District

PRAYER

Please pray for more Arabic-speaking workers to be part of the ministry shared in the story about the Language Café.
Pray for those with varying religious backgrounds to be set free from false teachings and enlightened by the truth of God’s love and grace for them.

PRAISE

Praise God for the new believers who are finding peace through Christ.
Praise the Lord for the creative vision of the church leaders to reach refugees with the Good News of Jesus.

IN 2023, 16 NEW ELDERS AND DEACONS WERE ORDAINED IN THE COTE D'IVOIRE CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE

Cote d’Ivoire
NMI Central 24 January 2024

In 1960 Cote d’Ivoire achieved independence from France; the relationship between the two countries remains close, and French remains the official language. The production of cocoa and resources and foreign investment have driven economic growth that has led Cote d’Ivoire to be one of the most prosperous states in West Africa. However, various power struggles since the 1980s have caused ongoing economic decline. In 1987, the Church of the Nazarene began its work, and as the statistics below indicate, there has been a significant effort to plant new churches across the country.

20,067 Members
60 Fully Organized Churches; 148 Not Yet Organized Churches
98 District Licensed and 68 Ordained Ministers on 1 District

PRAYER

Pray for the Lord’s protection of the newly ordained.
Pray that the Lord will provide the necessary resources to conduct their ministry effectively.
Pray that God will grant these new ordinands wisdom in the face of many obstacles that arise in ministry and that they will keep the faith as they bear witness for Christ.

PRAISE

Praise God for the presence of the Church of the Nazarene in the cities, towns, and villages of the Ivory Coast.
Praise God for the tremendous work that He is doing in and through the local missionaries in the Ivory Coast.

Sangam-dong Church ministers to the community through Love- Sharing Bazaar

South Korea
NMI Central, 3 January 2024

The work of the Church of the Nazarene began its work in Korea in 1948. With many shifts taking place in Korean society, the message of new life in Christ and of the possibility of living a holy life in unholy places, is Good News to all who will hear it. The Church of the Nazarene is committed to sharing this Good News, and continues to see encouraging signs of transformation as it lives Christ’s life in local communities where the Church works.

24,963 Members
205 Fully Organized Churches; 128 Not Yet Organized Churches
91 District Licensed and 480 Ordained Ministers on 1 District

PRAYER

Pray for more opportunities for churches in South Korea to use the resources that God has given them to be hands and feet of Jesus in their communities and beyond.
Pray for the work of Korea Nazarene University (KNU) in Cheonan, an hour south of Seoul, and for the significant influence it has throughout the country.

PRAISE

Praise God for the local Nazarene churches in South Korea that are going out to their communities to share Christ’s love.
Praise God for the creative academic programs offered through Korea Nazarene University (KNU), and for the impact they have had introducing the grace of God.

Missionaries in training in Nigeria

Nigeria
NMI Central, 6 December 2023

The Church of the Nazarene has been in Nigeria since officially registering in 1977. The challenges faced in this context provide opportunities to increase educational attainment among youth and women, improvement of healthcare, and awareness of and correction of the evils of significant sex trafficking. The Good News of Jesus and the transformative message of scriptural holiness is key to the resolution of many of the problems faced in Nigeria today.

13,582 Members
49 Fully Organized Churches; 22 Not Yet Organized Churches
44 District Licensed and 46 Ordained Ministers on 3 Districts

PRAYER

Pray for moral order and social righteousness to overcome the senseless violence that often goes unchecked in Nigeria
Pray for the leadership of the Church in Nigeria, for clear vision and the spiritual nurture of next generations.
Pray for pastors and churches facing rising persecution and for courage to continue the work of missions into new areas.

PRAISE

Praise God for what He is doing in and through women in Nigeria, that their faith and witness will grow.
Praise God for Nazarene young adults in Nigeria, who are like beacons of light attracting others to Christ.
Praise God for the intensive discipleship and mission training going on in Nigeria that helps young adults to discover God’s will.

The colored areas are the areas where the Church of the Nazarene has a presence. Each color represents a Region.

Additional Areas
Africa, Asia-Pacific, Eurasia, Mesoamerica, South America, USA/Canada Regions
NMI Central 29 November 2023

Work in “Additional Areas” (formerly called Creative Access Areas) began in 1994 and continues to the present. These “Additional Areas” are located on several of the regions where the Church of the Nazarene works. These areas tend to be resistant to the gospel, which means that the open proclamation of the gospel can be restricted, requiring creative approaches for ministry, and missions. They may also be areas where the Church of the Nazarene is officially registered with the government but whose political, social, or religious environment may not always be conducive to Christian outreach and church development. Often, we connect specific languages with specific countries on which we are focused. However, in this instance, the language that matters most is the language of grace and love, sharing hope in Christ. Regardless of the political, economic, social, or religious circumstances, the Church of the Nazarene is present to demonstrate the unconditional love of God to persons of all ages, living in every kind of human condition.

15,603 Members
133 Fully Organized Churches; 116 Not Yet Organized Churches
106 District Licensed and 16 Ordained Ministers

PRAYER

Pray for those who serve in these areas to remain strong in their faith despite significant opposition and resistance.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to help new believers share Christ, grow in him, and bear much fruit.

PRAISE

Praise the Lord for doors that are beginning to open to share Christ in difficult contexts.
Praise God for the faithful workers who must discretely share their faith and extend Christ’s love in their communities.

Thanksgiving Offering for World Evangelism Fund, Cornerstone Church of the Nazarene.

Papua New Guinea
NMI Central, 4 October, 2023
The work of the Church of the Nazarene officially started in 1955. Ten of the 17 districts are accessible by road and seven districts by air. Of PNG's 22 provinces, the church has gone into 18 provinces. Until recently, the Church of the Nazarene had yet to reach four provinces, but with the establishment of a pioneer area encompassing these remaining four provinces, the Church is now present and active in all 22 provinces of PNG. The majority of the population has little educational background, though it is estimated that half of the population is under the age of 25 years. Modern technology is not available in many areas. These realities present both challenges and opportunities for the Church of the Nazarene as it seeks to minister effectively throughout the country.

51,891 Members
532 Fully Organized Churches; 168 Not Yet Organized Churches
416 District Licensed and 434 Ordained Ministers on 17 Districts

PRAYER

Pray for our church leaders, most of whom have basic education and are having difficulty coping with modern changes. Pray that God will call professional lay people into ministry.
Pray for God’s wisdom and guidance for our pastors and ministry leaders.
Pray that Christians will not lose spiritual focus in these difficult times but will continue to trust and depend on God.
Continue to pray for the Kudjip Nazarene Hospital, which is in need of more missionary doctors, medical supplies, and support.

PRAISE

We praise God for outreach programs among women and youth, reaching out to newcomers and paving the way for church planting.
Praise God for successful crusades on each district. More people are coming to know and accept Jesus as Lord and Savior. Many come, following the crusades, as family units confirming their faith.
We praise God for our growing church family who are coming to better understand missions and are committed in giving to missions.

Caravan Club Children's Ministry in the streets of Romeral, Chile

Chile
NMI Central 27 September 2023

Chile is the longest north-south oriented country in the world and one of the countries along the Ring of Fire, home to nearly 90% of the world’s earthquakes and 75% of the world’s volcanoes. Chile gained its full independence from Spain in 1818, but like many of its neighboring countries has gone through a series of political upheavals, including military coups, and ideological shifts toward democracy, which it achieved in 1990. The country has one of the strongest economies, based upon foreign trade, and possesses the strongest sovereign bond rating in South America. The Church of the Nazarene began work in Chile in 1962. Over 34% of Chile’s population is under the age of 24, and the churches are focused on ministering creatively to children and youth.

2,862 Members
62 Fully Organized Churches; 4 Not Yet Organized Churches
38 District Licensed and 34 Ordained Ministers on 4 Districts
PRAYER

Pray for the theological education in our country, for our seminary president, his national team, and all the students that the Lord will add to the existing programs. We pray that many will be called to ministry.
Pray for youth leadership, that the Lord will challenge our young people for a missionary, pastoral, or ministerial calling. Pray for the new generation of mentors and youth leaders that God is raising up in the country and for the revival that God has prepared for all of NYI.
Pray for the congregations that are planting new churches (church-type missions), for those that are reopening closed churches, and for future churches that the Lord will give us from the north to the south of Chile during 2023-2024.

PRAISE

We give thanks to the Lord, who allowed us through Nazarene Compassionate Ministries to support 150 families that were affected by wildfires in the south of Chile. Many church leaders and youth from two districts participated, sharing the message of salvation and holiness while providing personal and material resources.
We thank the Lord for the movement of women who are motivated to seek the presence of the Lord and are involved in local ministries, united in prayer, using digital tools and face-to-face meetings.
We praise God for his support in discipleship ministries. We are grateful for the great team of teachers and mentors who have given their heart, time, and resources to carry out this ministry throughout the country.

2023 Ordinands - first in 10 years!

Hong Kong
NMI Central - 13 September 2023

Hong Kong was occupied by the British in 1841 and was formally ceded by China the following year. On 19 December 1984, an agreement signed by China and the UK set in motion a shift that eventually led to Hong Kong becoming the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the Republic of China on 1 July 1997. This special arrangement was meant to provide autonomy to Hong Kong in all matters, except foreign affairs and defense, that would last for 50 years. Hong Kong has become a financial capital in Eastern Asia. The work of the Church of the Nazarene was officially begun in 1974. Click HERE to learn more about the church in Hong Kong.

223 Members
3 Fully Organized Churches
3 Ordained Ministers
PRAYER

Pray for eyes to see the nations in our neighborhoods and hearts to love our neighbors.
Pray for effective witness for our Hong Kong churches in a time of political changes.
Pray for wisdom, boldness, and perseverance for our Hong Kong pastors to faithfully lead the church.

PRAISE

We celebrate the 43-year ministry of Rev. Elma Mago and the International Church of the Nazarene in Hong Kong.
We thank the Lord for the arrival of Pastor Janet and pray for her transition to pastoral ministry.
We praise the Lord for two new ordained pastors in March 2023— the first ordinations in more than 10 years.

Maui Wildfires

A series of wildfires devastated parts of Maui in Hawaii, killing dozens of people and destroying the historic town of Lahaina. The wildfires are the deadliest in the U.S. in more than a century. The Church of the Nazarene in Hawaii is responding to this crisis, with Nazarene congregations on Maui serving as evacuation shelters and providing food, bedding, clothes, toiletries, and other emergency supplies to evacuees. Maui Pukalani Church of the Nazarene (Puka Naz) continues to serve fire survivors. This week they distributed 20,000 pounds of fresh produce to evacuees and others impacted by the disaster.

Pray for protection and that the Holy Spirit would bring comfort to those who are grieving. Pray that many would would come to Christ during this challenging time.

You have the opportunity to give to support these efforts and a long-term future response as the island rebuilds. Go to NCM.org.

The church in Armenia raises funds to help others and to provide for future church leaders.

Armenia
NMI Central 9 August 2023

The work of the Church of the Nazarene in Armenia was established officially in 2002. Armenia was the first nation to adopt Christianity as a state religion in the year 301 A.D. In 1988, a devastating earthquake left the majority of the population without homes or possessions, and much of the Armenian economy was crippled in the aftermath of the quake. It could be argued that Armenia is still trying to recover from that catastrophic event. Despite the challenging economic situation, the Church of the Nazarene in Armenia has been successfully encouraging people to give to others and to serve other churches and nations in need. There is a deep desire to grow strong Nazarene leaders.

Church of the Nazarene in Armenia
342 Members
3 Fully Organized Churches
2 District Licensed and 4 Ordained Ministers on 1 District

PRAYER

Pray for the development of leaders in every age group with a missionary vision for every church in the area.
Pray for pastors, leaders, and churches in Armenia - for wisdom, courage, and strength to serve and lead the people of God.
Pray for future plans to open new churches, train new ministers, and organize effective meetings with leaders.

PRAISE

We praise God because in all difficult situations He delivers, saves, and guides us.
We give thanks to God because we see His wonderful works in the district of Armenia, even as we face many difficulties and war-like situations.
We give praises to God because He is worthy.

Over 27% of the Armenian population lives in poverty and the Nazarene Church exists in places where 47% of the population are classified as poor. Despite this, the church committed to work on two projects that would financially provide for the needs of people in Bangladesh and Nepal. Nazarenes managed to financially support these countries for one year thanks to God’s help and the willingness of believers. Read more about the church in Armenia HERE.

Egypt

The work of the Church of the Nazarene began officially in Egypt in 1986. Located on the Eastern Mediterranean Field, the work in Egypt has presented some challenges to the establishment of stable churches. Egypt became one of the great ancient civilizations around 3200 B.C., in large measure made possible because of the Nile River, with its annual floods creating rich and fertile land to sustain that civilization.

Church of the Nazarene in Egypt
31 Members
2 Not Yet Organized Churches

PRAYER

We pray for more opportunities to teach young girls important life skills as well as requested skills in areas like hairdressing.
We pray for more opportunities to take the children on educational and fun trips outside the community.

PRAISE

We thank God for the impact of God’s Word on the boys and girls in our children’s ministry programs.
We praise God for the healthy and strong relationships between the children and their leaders and pastors.

Located just a few hours outside of Cairo, Egypt, a Nazarene congregation that now meets in a rented apartment after operating out of the pastor’s home for years has made it a priority to provide comprehensive care and teaching for the children in their church.

With a total of nine volunteers, this children’s ministry has two main focuses. The first is a Sunday school that serves 75 children. The goal for the children’s ministry is to raise up a generation that knows the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior, that learns and memorizes the Word of God, and that testifies of the Lord’s work in their lives through their actions. Ministry volunteers present the love of Jesus creatively and provide counsel to children through a program called “Fadfada,” a chat that allows the child to write what makes them happy and what worries them. This tool helps to open them up to conversations and to overcome psychical barriers and deal with some of the difficult circumstances in their lives.
The children’s ministry also guides kids in spiritual and academic growth by helping them to study subjects according to their age and works with them on etiquette and ways of behaving that communicate respect and kindness to those in their society and church.

The second focus is a girl’s ministry that serves 25 girls. The goal for this ministry is for the participating girls to know Jesus as a friend, Savior, and Redeemer and that they can rely on the Lord always. In this group setting, young girls are brought together and given space to just be themselves and to play. Unlike the boys in their community, they do not have a place in public where they are able to do this. This ministry also seeks to take the participants on short day trips and to do other fun activities with them as they also learn the Bible and skills such as cooking and handicrafts.
Through both of these programs, the church is raising up strong Christians and future leaders as well as caring for children through age-appropriate care and teaching. Find more information HERE.

Myanmar
The work of the Church of the Nazarene in Myanmar began officially in 1984.
5,387 Members
54 Fully Organized Churches; 21 Not Yet Organized Churches
63 District Licensed and 42 Ordained Ministers on 4 Districts

While Myanmar has been known as a strong Buddhist nation, its rule of law is secular and there is freedom of religion. The Church of the Nazarene has found its place within the religious landscape and through a movement of missional disciple-making and district development, the work has grown. Many lay persons and bi-vocational church planters have been trained through extension classes of Chapman International College (formerly known as Southeast Asia Nazarene Bible College).

PRAYER

Pray for peace amid the ongoing political and economic crises in the country. The military has declared the country under martial law since 2021. Fighting continues in some areas, which has led to many people fleeing their homes, often resulting in the fracture of families.
Pray for the continued development of the church planting and disciple-making movement among Nazarenes. With the resource of JESUS Film Harvest Partners (JFHP), districts have been equipping Lydia EDC (Evangelism, Discipleship, and Church planting) teams in the nation. Join the churches in Myanmar who are praying for a breakthrough of God in the hearts of the wider population.

PRAISE

We thank God that throughout the pandemic, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries (NCM) has provided much-needed resources for food, shelter, and education of children in partnership with our local churches. Currently there are more than 400 children who are offered basic education through church-based tutorial programs.
We thank God for transformational training through Chapman International College (CIC) and the extension programs throughout the nation. Currently there are 27 extension classes offered to 277 students. Many of these students are lay leaders and youth in the churches.

Access to clean water is one of the essential needs in churches and communities in the rural areas of Myanmar. Since 2022, NCM Southeast Asia has drilled 5 wells in five remote local churches in the country. Through these wells, the local churches are not only providing the physical needs of the people. They also have the opportunity to minister to the community and share the love of Jesus with them as the “Living Water.” Read more HERE.

Puerto Rico church celebrates Holy Week with 11 newly baptized.

Puerto Rico
The work of the Church of the Nazarene began officially in 1944.
3,825 Members
55 Fully Organized Churches; 1 Not Yet Organized church
67 District Licensed and 73 Ordained Ministers on 2 Districts

PRAYER

Pray that God will continue to call new workers into the ministries of the growing churches in Puerto Rico, reaching young families, youth, and children for Christ.
Pray for God’s help as we seek to plant churches in the town of Utuado, and San Sebastian, Florida, as well as in other places where He is opening doors of opportunity for ministry and missions.
Pray that God would provide the various resources needed for the Genesis Project in Myagüez on the Puerto Rico West District.
Pray that God would graciously provide for the pastors and their families, direct them in their ministries, and renew their strength as they pour out their lives to His glory in Puerto Rico.

PRAISE

We continue to praise God on the Mesoamerica Region, for the aid that was sent to the district in September of 2022 when Hurricane Fiona struck the island, devastating large areas. Nazarene Disaster Response assisted the district in providing aid for hundreds of affected families. Distributions through our local churches opened communities to the message of God’s love and a realization of our love for them.
We thank God and Nazarene Missions International for Alabaster funds received, making it possible for us to purchase a building for the Church of the Nazarene in Manati.
We give thanks to God for His fidelity and love for our two districts in Puerto Rico.

Read more about the Church of the Nazarene in Puerto Rico HERE.

“Additional Areas”

Work in “Additional Areas” began in 1994 and continues to the present. These “Additional Areas” are located on several of the regions where the Church of the Nazarene has works. These areas tend to be resistant to the gospel, which means that the open proclamation of the gospel can be restricted, requiring creative approaches for ministry and missions. They may also be areas where the Church of the Nazarene is officially registered with the government, but whose political, social, or religious environment may not always be conducive to Christian outreach and church development. Often, we connect specific languages with specific countries on which we are focused. However, in this instance, the language that matters most is the language of grace and love, sharing hope in Christ. Regardless of the political, economic, social, or religious circumstances, the Church of the Nazarene is present to demonstrate the unconditional love of God to persons of all ages, living in every kind of human condition.

PRAYER

Pray that those who serve in these “Additional Areas” are kept safe from the actions of those who seek to intimidate or hamper the work.
Pray for increased grace and wisdom for those who are regularly called to navigate sensitive situations.
Pray that persons serving in these “Additional Areas” may be peacemakers in very stressful and often threatening environments.

PRAISE

We praise God for His Spirit’s leadership into new areas, opening doors of opportunity to introduce the Good News of Jesus and the message of scriptural holiness in contexts where hope and wholeness are most needed.

Relief supplies being distributed to those in need

Pray for Haiti
NMI Central March 8, 2023

The work of the Church of the Nazarene began officially in Haiti in 1950. Haiti’s history has been marked by occupation, oppression, and forced labor, all of which have led to generations of social and political unrest. In 1804, Haiti declared its independence, led by Jean-Jacques Dessalines, and became the first country in the world to be led by former slaves. Once known for the wealth of its natural resources, Haiti is now considered the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere due to significant corruption. Often the victim of devastating natural disasters like earthquakes and hurricanes, with few resources to meet the needs of its own people, there is a significant diaspora of Haitians in North America and elsewhere. The Church of the Nazarene is a denomination that stays when others are leaving and serves through ministries of compassion when disasters strike.

147,182 Members
755 Fully Organized Churches; 22 Not Yet Organized Churches
197 District Licensed and 292 Ordained Ministers on 12 Districts

Crossing the border to safety

Pray for Ukraine
NMI Central February 24, 2023

As the world watches anxiously while the now-year-long war in Ukraine is debated and discussed in the media, the people on the ground continue to suffer the tragedy of this conflict. Yet, there are many good things happening through Nazarene efforts to mitigate the suffering and continue the work of church and community development in Jesus’ name. The following is an overview of Nazarene assistance throughout this year. To all who have contributed through faithful giving and extraordinary efforts to come alongside our Ukrainian churches, thank you!

March 2022 – Pastoral support is distributed for the first time and continues to this day, totaling nearly $24,000.
Our churches continue to meet, some in bomb shelters, some over Zoom. Several churches have become bomb shelters and safe houses.
April 2022 – The first truck of 20 tons of food leaves Poland to head into Ukraine. Nazarene Compassionate Ministries (NCM) has sent a truck every 4-6 weeks, which has made it possible to feed 1,000 families a month. To date, Nazarenes through NCM have sent in 140 tons of food & hygiene products to be distributed by our Nazarene churches.
April 2022 – NCM also began sending funds on a monthly basis for each church to use for fuel, medicine, and other needs for their congregation and communities.
2 vans are donated by the Netherlands District to transport people to the border and help distribute goods. Also, a Nazarene church in Washington donated a van for our Vapnyarka church.
May 2022 – Several of our churches have almost doubled in size as people flood to the churches, considered centers of support and hope. In Odessa, our pastor baptized 12 people and started having multiple services.
August 2022 – The Germany District sends a truck of humanitarian aid along with Crisis Care Kits, and 8 generators were purchased by NCM for our churches.
December 2022 – The first of four containers is sent from Lima Community Church in Ohio with winter clothes and Crisis Care Kits; and NCM Canada sends a container of soup mixes for Ukraine.
With the congregations spread out across Europe, many new small groups and Bible studies have started in places like Estonia, France, Spain, and Latvia.
All of our churches are finding new ways to connect with their communities!
January 29 – February 3, 2023 – The first trauma training for local Ukrainian leaders took place through NCM.

Missionary Teanna Sunberg ministering at the border of Poland and Ukraine.

Pray for the Church in Poland
NMI Central, February 1, 2023

In Przemysł, Poland, the global Church of the Nazarene has been responding since the onset of war in Ukraine.

When the war broke out, the first Nazarene responder at the Polish-Ukrainian border was a Syrian pastor, seeking ways to serve. Soon after, a team formed, putting out the call for volunteers to come and physically provide resources to the hundreds of thousands of people fleeing their homes.

Since then, a steady stream of Nazarenes from Ireland, France, Bulgaria, England, the United States, South Africa, and beyond have flowed from their homes toward the tiny train station flooded with people in crisis. Students, families, professors, nurses, farmers, and pastors have all found a place to serve those fleeing the danger of war. Some haul suitcases up and down hundreds of flights of stairs, providing a moment of relief from a heavy burden. Some brew pot after pot of steaming tea, offering warmth within bitterly cold outdoor lines to passport control. Some sit and color with the littlest travelers, giving weary moms the chance to recharge a phone or repack a bag or simply rest in a chair.

“Here at the border,” says a volunteer, smiling, “We have people that speak English with many accents, Ukrainian, Russian, and a lot of different languages. But,” she continues, “the language of love, language of care—anybody who cares and loves, they know that language and they could show it, they could share it.”

Pray that God would continue to strengthen the Polish church as it seeks to minister to Ukrainian refugees crossing the borders, fleeing the war in Ukraine.
Pray for those who volunteer to go and serve in Poland to support the war-weary who are manning the train station at the border.

Damage at a Nazarene Church in Port Charlotte, Florida

Pray for those Affected by Hurricane Ian
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, 4 October 2022

Hurricane Ian, one of the most powerful storms recorded in the United States, made landfall in Florida on September 28th as a Category 4 storm with sustained wind speeds up to 155 mph (250 km per hour), a day after hitting Cuba. At least 100 people were killed across the storm’s path, which later moved back out to sea before making landfall again in South Carolina as a Category 1 storm on September 30. Thousands of people in Florida were left stranded by floodwaters.

In Cuba, the Pinar del Río province was most impacted by Hurricane Ian. Two Nazarene churches in that province experienced collapsed roofs and walls. Many families there lost their homes, and the entire island lost power due to the storm.
Nazarene churches in impacted areas of Florida are assessing damages to their own buildings, while also mobilizing to help impacted church members and neighbors.

In Englewood, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Venice, Arcadia, Fort Meyers, Lakeland, and Orlando, churches suffered roof damage and some window breakage and water damage. Several pastors across the state experienced catastrophic flooding in their homes, a few losing all of their belongings. The Southern Florida district campground, Lake Placid Camp and Conference Center, experienced broken windows and doors, damaged water pipes, and many downed trees.

Churches are combining resources to assist each other with cleanup work. The Miami Renew Church sent a group to Anthem Fort Myers to assist with their property cleanup and community feeding outreach. The Palm City New Hope Church served at the Lake Placid camp helping with tree removal and cleanup.

District leadership on the Florida and Southern Florida districts are working with individual pastors in assessing their needs and coming up with plans for assistance. Soon, Nazarene Disaster Relief groups will travel to the state to further the cleanup and rebuilding process, serving people in need in Jesus’ name.

Students at the School of Promise in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Thailand
NMI Central 21 September 2022

Thailand is a Southeast Asian country known for its tropical beaches, opulent royal palaces, and ancient ruins. The population is approximately 69.8 million and the official language is Thai. The Church of the Nazarene was able to begin work in Thailand in 1989 as a result of the generous giving of the Japan District Church of the Nazarene. The two missionary families who started the work were Michael and Rachel McCarty and Richard and Jean Knox. The Thailand District was organized in 1990 with two churches: Bangkok First Church and the Khmer Church in Surin (which later dissolved when refugees returned to Cambodia). The church currently has several projects in Thailand, one of which is The Baan Jai Di (House of Good Heart) Children’s Center in Korat. The center exists to bring hope to families and children in one of the most unreached areas of the world. The primary goal of Baan Jai Di is to provide opportunities for children and youth to learn about God through activities, fellowship, and fun. By providing after-school homework clubs, tutoring lessons, and kids’ camps, all centered around God’s Word, Baan Jai Di is bringing the light of Jesus into a previously unreached part of the world.

2,264 Members
31 Fully Organized Churches and 8 Not Yet Fully Organized Churches
29 District Licensed and 17 Ordained Ministers
14 Missionaries serving in Thailand

PRAYER

Pray for continued outreach amongst Thais in Northern Thailand through church planting efforts in the hill tribe villages.
Pray for the multiple JESUS Film locations around Bangkok and that God will use this ministry to grow the church in new areas of the city.
Pray for the Thailand District as they move forward with the goal of purchasing land near the Baan Jai Di ministry area.

Graduation at Nazarene Theological College, Manchester, UK

United Kingdom
NMI Central 31 August 2022

The Church of the Nazarene began work in the United Kingdom in 1909. The United Kingdom is an island nation in northwestern Europe. It includes England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Because the United Kingdom is made up of four nations, there is diversity in culture, language, and values. Nazarene churches in the U.K. are mostly located in challenged socioeconomic neighborhoods. The British Isles South District (BISD), which is made up of Wales and England, is home to Caribbean, Hungarian, Portuguese-speaking, Brazilian, and Korean congregations. The British Isles North District (BIND) includes Scotland, Northern Ireland, and England.

3251 Members
74 Fully Organized Churches and 4 Not Yet Fully Organized Churches
31 District Licensed and 142 Ordained Ministers

PRAYER

Pray for church planting efforts that are hoping to grow and integrate our Korean, Brazilian, and potentially Indian diaspora church plants into the British Isles South District.
Pray that a Holy Spirit-breathed, missional, and transformational revival will spread across the U.K.
Pray for the renewal of smaller churches.
Pray for the church across the U.K. as they face difficult financial challenges.

Socarro and Sara Fontes are Nazarene Missionaries serving in Angola.

Angola
NMI Central, 10 August 2022

The Church of the Nazarene began work in Angola in 1973. Angola is a Southern African nation whose varied terrain encompasses tropical Atlantic beaches, a labyrinthine system of rivers and Sub-Saharan desert that extends across the border into Namibia. The population is approximately 32.87 million people and the official language is Portuguese.

The Church of the Nazarene in Angola:

10,800 Members
149 Fully Organized Churches and 60 Not Yet Fully Organized Churches
74 district Licensed and 23 Ordained Ministers

Pray:

Pray for the various elections taking place in the country.
Pray that the evangelism and theological formation taking place through training will be fruitful.
Pray for God’s blessing on the urban ministry taking place in the city of Luanda, which has over 8 million people.
Pray for God’s provision of the support needed to implement women's empowerment projects through the Nazarene Compassionate Ministries.

South Korea
NMI Central, 20 July 2022

The Church of the Nazarene began work in South Korea in 1948. Korea Nazarene University, in Cheonan, was founded in 1954 and accredited in 1992. The university started with three majors in the theology department. Today, there are an additional thirteen majors related to rehabilitation and special education. The Korea National District Church of the Nazarene held an ordination service on 12 April 2022. The service was held during the 67th District Assembly. This is the first gathering of the entire district after two years of being in the COVID-19 pandemic. 36 ordinands waited for this special day to be ordained as elders of the church (pictured).

The Church of the Nazarene in South Korea:

25,239 Members
3,875 Fully Organized Churches and 496 Not Yet Fully Organized Churches
127 District Licensed and 547 Ordained Ministers

Pray:

Pray that the Lord will inspire a spirit of missions in the local churches.
Pray for the continual growth and strength of the theology department at Korea Nazarene University.
Pray that church leaders will continue to follow the will of God as they lead in ministry.

Bangladesh
NMI Central, 13 July 2022

The Church of the Nazarene began work in Bangladesh in 1992.Bangladesh is a South Asian country marked by lush greenery and many waterways. The population is approximately 164.7 million and the official language is Bengali. Nazarene Compassionate Ministries is very active in Bangladesh. Their works includes women’s income generation groups, child development centers, Rohingya refugee response projects, and many more. [Pictured, children in Bangladesh Child Development Center.]

PRAYER

Pray for the Lord's anointing on pastors, ministry leaders, and theology students.
Pray for Nazarene Compassionate Ministries as God uses them to show Jesus' love to others and create gateways to knowing Him.
Pray for youth to be reached and developed into evangelistic leaders of integrity.
Pray for open hearts as the JESUS Film Harvest Partner teams share the Good News.

War in Ukraine affects Senior Adults

The war in Ukraine continues to traumatize the country’s population and spread its impact around the world. News media have highlighted the effect of the war on various groups of people, but one group is often overlooked: senior adults. Read more in this blog from June 23, 2022..

Argentina Churches Engage in Missions

In February 2022, La Fe Church of the Nazarene in the Central Patagonia District participated in the global week of prayer. Veronica Marenco testified that this year was already a blessed one because the local NMI council was formed. This allowed for them to engage the entire church in prayer with the rest of the world and broaden their vision.

Gualeguaychú Church of the Nazarene from the Mesopotamia District was able to share its generosity. Throughout the month of February, church members worked to help schools, hospitals, seminaries, and much more! They also promoted and taught younger generations about generosity by teaching them about Alabaster. Veronica Horst said, “After watching a video about Alabaster, they made a church-shaped envelope. Then they used it at the end of the service to collect an Alabaster offering. We saw them very happy to be a part of it, and they also asked to take envelopes home in order to collect more offerings. It was a beautiful experience that will be etched in them forever.”

Members from the Central Patagonia District gathered at Fullness of Life Church of the Nazarene on 19 March for their second district NMI meeting. This was a time of mobilizing the church by witnessing what the Lord is doing in Mali, West Africa. Pastor Jorge Diaz stated that “we are working to raise awareness of mission in our district and we believe the Lord is at work. We were struck by what it means to serve in countries of another faith.”

The Coastal District held its first NMI presidents meeting on March 27. Missionary Cintia Pepermans gave a workshop called "The Biblical Basis of Mission: Our Responsibility, Paradigms, and Challenges." Marta Charra, the district NMI president said, “The Lord is opening our eyes to another way of understanding and doing missions based on His word.”

In these testimonies and many other ways, NMI in Argentina is working to involve the church in missions locally and around the world.
-By South America Region

Ukraine Update

April 22, 2022 - This first-hand account was written by Sylvia Cortez. Sylvia serves in Ukraine along with her husband, Pastor Volodymyr Masyuk, the Nazarene District Superintendent for Ukraine. They are now taking refuge in and continuing to minister from Poland.

Who could have imagined at least 4 million Ukrainian refugees, a total of 7 million people, displaced from their homes?
I am one of them. Imagine.
This week, we had another chance to spend some time helping refugees at the Przemyśl border. Our Nazarene Compassionate Ministries team there has dwindled a bit, but a core group remains. The flow of refugees continues and so NCM remains.
Read more...

Pray for the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Read an amazing story of how God worked through the JESUS Film in the DRC HERE.

The Church of the Nazarene began work in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in 1990. The country straddles the equator and has a large landmass. Due to its location along the equator, the DRC experiences high precipitation and has the highest frequency of thunderstorms in the world. The second-largest rain forest is located in the DRC named Congo Rain forest. The population is approximately 92 million. The official language of the country is French.
Nazarenes in DRC:
29,160 Members
69 Fully Organized Churches 48 Not Yet Organized Churches
32 District Licensed and 72 Ordained Ministers
PRAYER

Pray that the Lord will continue to call young people into ministries in DRC and that the work of ministerial education, chiefly done through NTI (Nazarene Theological Institute), will be relevant, practical, and suited to the diverse context of Congolese as the church continues to grow.
Pray for the stability of the DRC; without peace in the region, nothing can be implemented in the field.
Pray for the missionary families serving in the Africa Central Field, specifically the family of our Field Strategy Coordinator Reverend Mario, who shifted from his area to Congo Brazzaville.

PRAISE

Give praise to God that even during the pandemic, churches have been planted, new believers baptized, and ministries have grown in creative ways.
We thank God for seven established districts in DRC. Even though we are still planting new churches in the rest of the provinces, we are thankful to our Lord for what has been done so far.
Give thanks that during the pandemic, the churches in DRC have remained united in prayer and focused on both church and leadership development.

Taking Care of Ukrainian Refugees

In Poznań, Poland, Nazarene missionaries and volunteers are turning a church-sponsored coffee shop into a multipurpose centre for Ukrainians who are seeking refuge in the country. The group is also supporting several families who recently evacuated from Ukraine. #livecompassion

You can support efforts like these in Poland, Hungary, Romania, and Moldova. Give at Trinity through the month of March, or online at ncm.org/Ukraine. - Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, March 8, 2022

Nazarenes in Poland welcome refugees from Ukraine with food and supplies.

How to Pray for the situation in Ukraine

The following was posted on Facebook by Cara Shonamon, who is the daughter of Chuck and Carla Sunberg. Their family served as Nazarene missionaries to Russia in the early '90s, so Cara spent part of her childhood there. She is now a Pastor in Shawnee, Kansas. Here she gives a beautiful guide on how to pray for the people suffering through the current conflict.

“What’s on my mind?”
Part 1

My friends in Kyiv. Especially Zee, Sam, and their two kids. I feel the Lord has called me to pray for them specifically each and every day. Zee is with the kids and not alone. Sam volunteered for the Territorial Defense. He has the heart of Jesus and is giving of himself everyday.

They are on my mind. Constantly.

There is a story in the Old Testament where Moses had to hold up his arms for the People of God to win the battle against the Amalekites. He was tired. He sat down on a rock and as exhaustion set in his arms would fall down. When his arms fell down… the Amalekites would make more progress. So, Aaron and Hur knew they had a job to do. They held up Moses’s arms! They couldn’t be the ones to hold the staff, but they could hold up his arms.

I feel my job is to be like Aaron and Hur. Holding up the arms of Zee and Sam. I can’t be there in person. But I sure can hold them up in faithful and fervent prayer.

Did you know that a key component of any revival in history is that a person or persons were desperate? People of God— our sisters and brothers are DESPERATE. So, we need to bear these burdens and desperations with them.

If you would like to join me in prayer and yet don’t know how to pray for Ukraine… take your current life circumstance and pray for someone just like you in Ukraine.

— — --

Are you retired? Pray for those who are retired. Who worry about their future of life and wonder if they survive… will they have the finances they need to live.

Are you a college student? Pray for the college students. Who are not in class but rather making homemade explosives to protect their city.

Are you a family with little kids? Pray for the parents. I saw a video of a dad having to put his 8 year old daughter on a bus to safety as he stayed behind to fight. He was sobbing. She was sobbing. This one hit hard and home for me. That could be my husband if we were in Ukraine.

Are you an empty nester? Pray for the parents! Pray for them as they pray for their children and grandchildren. Pray for those trying to get safely out of the country. My dad last week said, “what kind of world did my new granddaughter just come into?” Pray for grandparents as they worry about the future for their families.

Are you in your last season of life? Do you remember World War 2? Pray for those who are in your shoes in Ukraine. Those who were little kids when Hitler invaded and now Putin is invading. Something they never thought possible!

Are you a kid? Pray for the kids. The kids who are doing school in bomb shelters and the teachers dedicated to bringing about as much normal as possible. Pray for the parents to have the words to say or not say. To have the courage to hope and comfort and give peace in the moment to their children.

Are you pregnant or did you just give birth? Pray for the moms (last I heard there were 9) who gave birth either in the metro stations or other bomb shelters. Can you imagine??? I know I had 2 home births, but that was my choice and I was able to control my environment. Pray for the protection of these precious moms and their new little ones.

Are you a parent of someone in the military? Pray for the Ukrainian soldiers. Pray that bullets miss. Missiles malfunction. Did you know 17% of the Ukrainian military are women? Pray for all the soldiers from all walks of life who are sacrificing so much. Pray for the Russian soldiers (yes! Pray for them too!) Pray their eyes are opened to what is really happening. Pray they lay down their arms willingly. Pray they have the courage to go against their orders. I saw a text screenshot between a soldier and his mom. He had surrendered to the Ukrainians. He was scared. He thought he was helping and liberating. He was told the Ukrainians would be happy to see them. He was jarred by the fact that the Ukrainians were fighting and standing in front of the tanks!

Are you a man between the ages of 18-60? Pray for those men who are willingly entering the war. Some who have no combat experience at all. Some who simply want to protect thier families, homeland, and freedom. Pray for them to have strength and courage. Pray for them in their darkest moments when they contemplate the worst. Pray for angles to walk with them just as they did in the fiery furnace. Pray for their families as they barely sleep waiting for a text from their men.

Are you single? Pray for those who are single and the fear and loneliness. Pray for communities to keep up with those who are single so they do not go forgotten or bear burdens alone!

The list could go on and on.

Bottom line: put yourself in the shoes of others. Bear their burdens in prayer.

Let’s all make a desperate cry out to Jesus in unison!

Lord, Hear our Prayers!!!

Pray for Ukraine
Following is a message from Volodymyr Masyuk, the District Superintendent of the Church of the Nazarene in Ukraine and Moldova, posted on Facebook on February 24, 2022.

Friends. As many of you know, Russia declared war and attacked in the dark throughout all of Ukraine.
We have hoped and prayed for peace, but war is now upon us. Lives have now been lost on both sides. We ask now that you would pray for protection over those affected physically by these attacks. Pray for all of Ukraine now going through this traumatic trial.
We are praying honest prayers and believe God hears our fears, our hopes, and even our anger. We believe God is here with us in our midst.
Pray that the people of Ukraine would remain strong against an unjust and vicious attack.
Pray for those in the military who are risking their lives, and for their families who now eagerly wait for their safe return.
Pray that Russian mothers would stand up against this evil and their sons being used as pawns and killed for bloodthirst, hunger for power, and their leaders’ hatred for Ukraine. Pray for an awakening in their land.
Pray that our churches and Christians throughout Ukraine would comfort their neighbors and help each other meet daily needs.
We have spoken with many Nazarene families today. People are taking this very seriously while trying to stay calm and not panic. People in churches are praying continuously. Ukrainians are a peaceful nation, but today, many civilians, including some of our church people, chose to take up arms to defend our homeland. These are not easy decisions to make. Ukraine did not want war. We are now defending ourselves, our families, and our homeland. We will also do all that we can to help those in need during this time. Pray for our safety and God’s protection as we continue to live and minister from day to day and hour to hour.
As I finish this letter they are warning of possible airstrikes over Kyiv. Please pray for endurance.
Volodymyr Masyuk, District Superintendent for Ukraine/Moldova Church of the Nazarene
Psalm 46
God is our refuge and strength,  a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change,  though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;
though its waters roar and foam,  though the mountains tremble with its tumult. Selah
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,  the holy habitation of the Most High.
God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved;  God will help it when the morning dawns.
The nations are in an uproar, the kingdoms totter;  he utters his voice, the earth melts.
The Lord of hosts is with us;  the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah
Come, behold the works of the Lord;  see what desolations he has brought on the earth.
He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;  he breaks the bow, and shatters the spear;  he burns the shields with fire.
“Be still, and know that I am God!  I am exalted among the nations,  I am exalted in the earth.”
The Lord of hosts is with us;  the God of Jacob is our refuge.

Pray for Nazarenes in Kenya and the Eastern Africa Field

PRAYER

Pray for the election year and peace amongst Kenya’s people and that they will be united.
Pray for district assemblies that are happening in Kenya.
Pray for the institutions, Africa Nazarene University and Nazarene Bible College of East Africa, for more student enrollment.
Pray for the political unrest in some of the countries on the Africa East Field.

PRAISE

We thank God for the health workers and leaders continuing to help battle COVID-19.
We thank God for the expanding church in Kenya as His people love others in their community.
We thank God for the 17 missionaries and 376 ministers serving in Kenya.
We thank God for the lives changed because of Africa Nazarene University and Nazarene Bible College of East Africa.

Pray for the Church in Ukraine

Mission and Ministry
Ministry Challenges
During the COVID-19 pandemic the number of cases in the Ukraine has reached 3,578,557 with 91,958 reported deaths.

Like many countries in the former Soviet and Eastern Bloc, many Ukrainians struggle with alcoholism, drug abuse, and human trafficking. There are many “unclaimed” children on the streets and in orphanages. The aftereffects of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster (26 April, 1986) continue to present themselves throughout the country, impacting health and economy. Leadership and ministry training is a major challenge in Ukraine, not only for the Church of the Nazarene, but across all denominations. Certain regions within Ukraine (e.g. the Crimea) continue to offer allegiance to Russian interest, because of strong, ongoing Communist beliefs persisting.

Ministry Approaches
Churches of the Nazarene in Ukraine have sponsored programs for alcohol and drug addiction for many years. Numerous women and men have come through those programs, coming to and growing in their faith. Following their call to ministry, some have studied for ministry through learning centers of European Nazarene College (EuNC). Churches have endeavored to remain connected with congregants and neighbors throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, offering compassionate ministries, and sharing the Good News of Jesus through personal testimony and building bridges to those living in their communities.

Praises

“God has been faithful through this time of COVID, and we are thankful for the church in Holland that did a virtual Work & Witness with us to help build our new fence that was much needed.” (Volodomyr Masyuk, senior pastor of Kyiv First Church of the Nazarene and district superintendent of the Ukraine.)
Give praise to God for the Kazatins teen club that has grown this year to be almost 40 teens every Sunday. These youth gather to play games and hear the Good News of Jesus.
“We have been able to finish our new building in Pozniaky, and have been gathering for worship in it for the last few months. Praise God!” (Andriy Takhtay, pastor of the Pozniaky Church of the Nazarene, Ukraine)
Praise God for all the work He has done to bring both the Vapnyarka and the Celiche churches back to life. Both churches were in crisis this past year, and over recent months God has brought new leadership and a renewed spirit to these churches.

Prayer Requests

Pray for Volodomyr adn Sylvia Masyuk as they begin a new season of ministry, and for their church as they navigate gatherings in the “Red Zone” of Kyiv.
Pray for the “Grace and Faith” church as they seek God’s direction on how to move forward for growth in the coming year, and for pastor Serhii Onofriichuk, as they look for a new place to live.
Pray for a women’s event with Elaine Briefman in May, focused on Identity in Christ; that many women will be able to attend, and that travel restrictions will ease, enabling Elaine to travel to the Ukraine.
Pray for all of the young leaders who are in theological and ministerial studies; that they will continue to trust their calling to minister in the Ukraine.
Pray for Chad and Crystal Gibbons as they learn the language and build relationships in the Ukraine.
Pray for continued tensions between Ukraine and Russia, and the impact those tensions have on the general public, and could impact religious liberties. These are difficult days in the Ukraine. Pray for peace and justice.

Pray for the "Additional Areas" that the church is reaching

Additional Areas--works have been established in these areas since 1994 to the present; 133 organized churches; 108 not yet organized churches; 15,662 members.

These “Additional Areas” are located on several of the regions where the Church of the Nazarene has works. These areas tend to be resistant to the gospel, which means that the open proclamation of the gospel can be restricted, requiring creative approaches for ministry and missions; they may also be areas where the Church of the Nazarene is officially registered with the government, but whose political, social, or religious environment may not always be conducive to Christian outreach and church development. Read more about the church's ministry approach and some specific prayer requests for these areas HERE.
- Prayer Mobilization Line, September 15, 2021

Pray for the people of Haiti

Haiti is still reeling after the 7.2-magnitude earthquake on August 14. Several Nazarene churches and families have been severely impacted by the devastation.
An estimated 2,207 people were killed, more than 12,000 were injured, and tens of thousands are without homes. The greatest concerns as the country recovers include lack of shelter, hunger, and disease outbreaks.
In two Nazarene districts, Grand Anse and Sud, 15 churches were destroyed; some were still in disrepair after Hurricane Matthew in 2016 and sustained additional damage during the earthquake (Lazile 2nd Church of the Nazarene pictured above). In the Sud District, one pastor’s home collapsed. About 5,000 Nazarene families are currently in need of food, shelter, and other emergency aid.
The hardest-hit areas are on Haiti’s southwestern peninsula, and impassable roads and violence have made delivering aid extremely challenging. Together with Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, the local Nazarene churches are distributing tarps, tents, and food packages that include non-perishable food staples.
While church members want to help provide shelter, only about half the churches on the Grand Anse District have enclosed buildings, which may not be stable. Additionally, many people are afraid of sleeping indoors during aftershocks and prefer to sleep outside using tents and tarps.
It is likely that the recovery in this area will take years, particularly when the response transitions from immediate aid to a holistic model. Nazarene News, Aug. 25, 2021

Pray for those affected by flash flooding in Tennessee

Our prayers are with Waverly Church of the Nazarene, Camp Garner Creek, and others in Middle Tennessee who are recovering after record-breaking rainfall caused deadly flash flooding on 21 August.

Record-breaking rainfall sent floodwaters surging through low-lying areas of Middle Tennessee on 21 August. Waverly, Tennessee, was one of the hardest-hit areas, receiving 17 inches of rain in just 24 hours. The rainfall led to deadly flash flooding that took the lives of at least 22 people with 50 people still unaccounted for.“We’ve been trying to clean up what we can,” said Daron Brown, lead pastor of Waverly Church of the Nazarene. “We’ve lost everything. At least 10 families in our church have lost their homes, and our community looks like a bomb hit it. But it’s times like this is when we see the worst and the best: the worst in terms of disaster and the best in terms of people and God’s presence and grace showing up in the middle of such horrendous tragedy.”

Camp Garner Creek is a Nazarene campground just 30 minutes from Waverly. Six camp buildings were destroyed: the dining hall, the maintenance director’s house, the main office, the RV park, half of a lodge, and the snack shack. The RV park was completely flooded, and two residents were swept away and eventually stranded in nearby trees until they could be rescued by boat. For more, go to Nazarene News.

Pray for Madagascar

Prayer Mobilization Line, July 28, 2021
Ministry Challenges - During the COVID-19 pandemic the number of cases in Madagascar has reached 43,376 with 927 reported deaths. Many of the churches in Madagascar worship in rented spaces in public buildings and schools, all of which were closed for prolonged periods due to multiple lockdowns from waves of COVID-19. These venues had to impose very strict rules of occupancy, and many churches have not been allowed to return to use the facilities. This is perhaps the greatest challenge at present. Though churches could meet, they have no properties of their own in which to meet. With high costs for Internet services, most churches have not been able to afford to do online worship and meetings. Borders are still closed, and entry into the country is limited.

Ministry Approaches - The churches in Madagascar encouraged their church families to host small groups in their homes. There is a strong radio ministry in Madagascar, so members have been encouraged to listen to sermons on select radio stations. After the first lockdown, one local church organized an open-air concert, which was attended by many people. The Madagascar Street Kids Center, in order to avoid overcrowding, children were given uncooked food to take home and share with their families during the lockdowns. In order to keep the children focused on their studies during lockdowns, homework and classwork have been given to children on Mondays and returned on Fridays.

The photo above is from the 20th anniversary celebration of the Madagascar Street Kids Center. The Center is a Nazarene compassionate ministry center, where children come to receive holistic development through physical, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual support.

The MesoAmerica Region of the Church of the Nazarene is asking for prayer for Cuba during this time of unrest.

Pray for Kenya
Prayer Mobilization Line, July 14, 2021

Pray that the Lord will continue to give wisdom, guidance, and grace as field and district leaders continue to work with pastors in strengthening the ministries in Kenya. Pray for Musz Kunene, field strategy coordinator for the new East Field.
“We also ask for prayer as we face the challenges of having small children in Kenya, so far from family and friends. As educators, we pray for the ability to teach in-person as soon as it is safe to do so.” [Rusty Brian]
Pray for the preparations underway for the French Seminary FATN, and for the students who are preparing for ministry.
Pray for Africa Nazarene University, that its ability to impact the Africa Region will continue to grow. Pray for all the members of the ANU community, that God would purify each one so that they may be effective in the work of the Kingdom of God and the work of Christ to which He has called them.
Pray for those who serve as sponsored missionaries in Kenya, that God would continue to provide the finances needed for their support for the coming two years. This support is raised on home assignments, which have at times been interrupted by pandemic restrictions on travel and services.
Pray for peace in Kenya as preparations are made for a presidential election, and that stability may be secured for the nation.

Pray for Japan
Prayer Mobilization Line, June 23, 2021

Though the majority of Japanese do not claim a personal religion, Shintoism* (70.4%) and Buddhism (69.8%) are considered the majority religions. Many people practice both Shintoism and Buddhism, thus the high percentages of both. Christianity accounts for only 1.5% of the religious landscape of Japan.
In Japan, during the COVID-19 pandemic, congregational gathering, worship services, and other local church activities have been impossible. New methods of communication, using online platforms, have generated live broadcasts of the services. This has meant the opening up of those services to many more people (often 2-3 times the usual number) to be engaged with local churches in worship. Bible study has been offered via Zoom, as well as prayer meetings.

Pray that COVID-19 vaccinations may be implemented nationwide with efficient speed, and that churches may soon resume more normal church life.
Pray for wisdom in the next steps of ministry and missions in Japan, and that the Lord will help to continue to build strong relationships within communities and among young people in the churches.
Pray for the churches in Japan in the run-up to the Olympic Games in Tokyo, that they may find opportunities to witness for Christ to many who will be visiting their country in July and August.
Pray that God may bless pastors and congregants with a deeper faith and contagious spirituality that may influence their communities.
Pray for the churches in Japan to continue to pray expectantly and give generously to God, even in these uncertain times.
Pray that the Holy Spirit will shape the church in Japan in the image of Jesus, and that compassion would be one of the identifying markers of the people of God as the churches seek to serve their communities.

Pray for Jerusalem
Prayer Mobilization Line, June 16, 2021

COVID-19, followed by recent unrest and conflict in our country, has made our people reluctant to come into the city. Pray that the spirit of fear will subside, and will be replaced with the peace of God, through His Holy Spirit. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem!
Pray for wisdom as pastors seek to interact with various groups in their communities, and that the young will not be negatively impacted by the divisions within our society.
Pray for the situation to calm down in the country, and for the political, economic, religious, and social aspects of this country and our neighbors, that God may help the populations to turn to Him for guidance, wisdom, and strength in the days ahead.

Occasionally you will hear us talk about missions in Creative Access Areas, or Additional Areas. Works have been established in these areas since 1994 to the present; 133 organized churches; 108 not yet organized churches; 15,662 members. Regional: These “Additional Areas” are located on several of the regions where the Church of the Nazarene has works. Cultural: These areas tend to be resistant to the gospel, which means that the open proclamation of the gospel can be restricted, requiring creative approaches for ministry and missions; they may also be areas where the Church of the Nazarene is officially registered with the government, but whose political, social, or religious environment may not always be conducive to Christian outreach and church development. The pandemic has increased the reality of hunger and great need, both for local pastors and those they serve. Possibly, one of the greatest challenges for these “Additional Areas” and those who work and serve in them has more to do with us, the praying church, than with their unique and often stressed situations. Let us take up the challenge to pray faithfully for those who must remain nameless, in places that require discretion for security reasons.

COVID-19 Surge in India: What is the Church of the Nazarene doing?
Prayer Mobilization Line, May 5, 2021

Responding to the COVID-19 Surge in India

In India, a surge in COVID-19 cases are straining the country’s health care system. The total number of reported deaths has exceeded 215,000, but the actual numbers are believed to be much higher. Within the last three weeks, deaths have nearly tripled as highly infectious variants are spreading quickly. Compounding the ability to address the surge is a critical shortage of both hospital space and oxygen.

People impacted by this surge still need your help.

Nazarene churches in India have been responding to the pandemic since it began through food and supply distributions for the most vulnerable. Necessary lockdowns and closures mean a large portion of the population are without income, including those who were already living in poverty and pastors while churches are closed.

The Reynolds Memorial Hospital, a Nazarene entity started in 1938, is providing frontline care to patients with COVID-19. The surge in cases has impacted this hospital, too, and staff members are working extremely hard to treat those in their care.

Please pray for those responding to this surge.

Pastor Pratik, who along with his parents tested positive for COVID-19 in April, says that the support from the church was a great help.

“I seek your prayers for our country,” he said. “I seek your prayers for our pastors and the families who have lost their dear ones. Please pray for the whole country."

How You Can Help

Pray
Pray for those who have lost loved ones, and pray for those who are trying to find medical care for their loved ones. Pray for the staff at all the hospitals, including Reynolds Memorial Hospital, who have treated an increasing stream of patients for weeks. Pray for those who are ill, that they would be healed and recover quickly, and pray for the spread of the virus to slow. Pray for those who are most vulnerable during crises, especially senior adults, individuals with disabilities, and people living in poverty. To send a prayer or note of encouragement, go to ncm.org/pray.

Give
Churches and individuals around the world can provide support through the COVID-19 Response – India. Donations will be used for immediate needs, such as water and food, as well as long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts.

To send donations by mail:
In the U.S., make checks payable to "General Treasurer" and send them to:
Global Treasury Services
Church of the Nazarene
P.O. Box 843116
Kansas City, MO 64184-3116
Be sure to put 136096 in the Memo area.

Special Prayer for St. Vincent

Many will already know of the massive volcanic eruption on St. Vincent on 9-10 April. This has led to widespread displacement of persons, and increased concern for the health and safety of the population, especially due to the fine particles in the air exacerbating complications due to COVID-19 respiratory problems. It is expected that the volcano, La Soufrière, will erupt even more in the days ahead. Pray for those living and serving in St. Vincent, that they may find meaningful ways to address needs and share the love of Christ at this critical time. Prayer Mobilization Line, April 14, 2021

Urgent Prayer for Myanmar

The situation in Myanmar has become dire. Pray for peace and calm, and that civil services will be restored. Pray that adequate internet communication can be restored, as the lack of communication prevents people from seeking help or offering help to those in need. Most of all, pray that the Body of Christ will clearly see its role during these challenging days. Prayer Mobilization Line, April 7, 2021

Newly Assigned Nazarene Missionaries

In the midst of a global pandemic, the mission of the church continues as it prepares, sends, and supports new missionaries for the work of making Christlike disciples in the nations. These newly assigned missionaries are just beginning their missionary service.

Nilberto and Rosania Borges: sponsored deployment to Paraguay, South America Region
Carlos and Nancy Cordero: global deployment to Ecuador, South America Region
Gregory and Jamie Maurer: sponsored deployment to Papua New Guinea, Asia-Pacific Region
Rob and Cindy North: sponsored deployment to Kenya: Africa Region
Samuel and Kristi Senica: sponsored deployment to Dominican Republic, Mesoamerica Region

Prayer Mobilization Line, April 7, 2021

Pray for Eswatini (formerly Swaziland)

Fast Facts
General:Eswatini--work established in 1910; 149 organized churches; 24 not yet organized churches, 18,280 members.

Regional:
Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is on the Africa South Field of the Africa Region.Cultural:Autonomy was guaranteed by the British in the late 19th century, with Independence granted in 1968. In April 2018, King MSWATI III renamed the country, formerly known as Swaziland, Eswatini.

Special:
The majority religion in Eswatini is Christianity (90%), with the Church of the Nazarene being the third largest denomination in the country. Many will know the names of pioneer missionaries, Harmon F., and Lula Schmelzenbach, who launched the work of the Church of the Nazarene in Swaziland; and the name, Dr. David Hynd, who supervised the establishment of the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital in Manzini, one of the first Nazarene hospitals to share the love of Jesus through compassion and health care. This small, rural, landlocked country shares borders with South Africa and Mozambique. The estimated poverty rate is estimated to be 59% living below the national poverty line, living on less than $1.9 USD per day, and more than 20% considered “extremely poor.” Over 52% of the population of Eswatini is under the age of 25. This is largely due to the extremely high HIV/AIDS infections and deaths in the country, the highest in the world. The literacy rate stands at 88.4%.

Mission and Ministry
Mission ChallengesDuring the COVID-19 pandemic the number of cases in Eswatini has reached 17,014 with 652 reported deaths. Some of the greatest challenges facing the churches in Eswatini have been related to the financial hardship for pastors, because their churches could not meet, and many of the members could not work. With many companies applying a rigorous “no work-no pay” policy, many who have lost their jobs are struggling to find alternative employment. Some church adherents have given up their faith due to the heavy pressures of the pandemic, unable to discern God’s presence in this challenging year. In many cases, members could not hear the Word of God preached or taught, because pastors were skeptical of social media platforms to connect with their people.

Ministry Approaches
Despite the various challenges faced by the churches in Eswatini, many of the congregations have been able to bring their church and the community closer together through ministries of compassion: food hamper distribution, and COVID-19 protective equipment. Small group meetings have multiplied in many places, and members who might normally “sit back” have been challenged to take up responsibility for these small groups. Where social media and innovative ministry connections have been used, many who would not normally attend church have been drawn near to the local church and brought into fellowship with believers.Praises

Give thanks to God for the important work of Nazarene Health Services in the country, particularly in the densely populated areas around Manzini.
Give thanks for God’s protection of Musa and Prudence Kunene who were recently and miraculously saved from a serious car accident.
Give praise to the Lord for the continuing development of Southern Africa Nazarene University and its various programs that are helping a younger generation to see the importance of Christlike service in their country.
Give thanks that as one of the oldest works of the Church of the Nazarene, the influence of the denomination in Eswatini has been significant.

Prayer Requests

Pray for the next generation of Nazarenes in Eswatini to have a bright future in church development, education, and holy influence.
Pray that God would help the churches in Eswatini to learn how to leverage social services as a means of church growth.
Pray that every person who attends schools, from pre-school to university, who come under the influence of Nazarene teachers and administrators, will be drawn to the Church of the Nazarene by the work of the Holy Spirit, and empowered to share Jesus Christ throughout the country.
Pray for church leaders in Eswatini, that the Lord will continue to guide and use them in their places of service, providing wisdom, grace, and courage to live the life of Christ in their communities.

Thank You for Praying
Printable Versions of PML
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Unrest in Myanmar
February 3, 2021

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, has experienced violence and unrest following a general election held recently. Pray for peace, and that the Church of the Nazarene in Myanmar would find a way to serve their brothers and sisters who are suffering. The photo attached is from a July 2020 article about the growing Nazarene church in Myanmar.

Special Prayers for “Additional Areas” and Missionaries We Cannot Name

Prayer Mobilization Line, January 27, 2021
Scripture reading: Psalm 139:7-8, 11-12

Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,” even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. (Psalm 139:7-8, 11-12, NIV)

Have you ever felt alone or abandoned, or that nobody cares? Have you tried to evade the pursuit of God or escape His presence? Scripture reminds us that we’re never alone, that He’s ever present, that He goes before us, labors beside us and shields us from behind.

While the Creative Access areas of the regions consist of powers and authorities who seek to eliminate or hide the truth as found in Jesus, God has not forgotten the peoples of these lands and His light shines forth in the darkness. The Spirit of God is at work in those dark places, inviting us to trust Him and in so doing, participate in the joy of seeing lives rebirthed and transformed.

As there, He is also at work in our lives. Because He calls and leads, we trust, we obey and we follow. Our text reminds us that there is no place that anyone can flee to escape the presence of God. He loves us, He seeks us and He pursues us. Because there are millions in these “Additional Areas” who have yet to receive an opportunity to respond to the Good News of Jesus, we go. While serving in these areas can be overwhelming, oppressive and even dangerous, we go because “even the darkness will not be dark to you [us]; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you [the children of God].”

Please join us in prayer for:

the inhabitants of these nations, particularly for those who are seeking the light
our missionaries serving in these nations and the disciples that they are raising up
for the ongoing multiplication of new generations of Christlike disciples
for unwavering trust in our LORD
for those missionaries who, because of the global pandemic, are stranded outside of their area of ministry and who are desperately seeking creative ways to stay connected with the believers
applications to re-enter with discretion those nations where our missionaries were required to exit due to the pandemic

Pray for our Brothers and Sisters in Puerto Rico
Prayer Mobilization Line January 13, 2021

Praises

The church in Puerto Rico is grateful to God for useful technologies and for persons capable of utilizing those technologies to share the Good News of Jesus.
Give thanks that to date, none of our Nazarene pastors have tested positive for COVID-19. All continue to faithfully lead their congregations with care and sensitivity.
Give praise that the four new church plants continue to move forward across the districts.

Prayer Requests

Pray that God would continue to bless the churches in Puerto Rico with effective ministry in the face of uncertainty and challenge.
Pray that the new church plants will soon become fully functioning and organized congregations to spread the love and ministry of Christ in new areas of Puerto Rico.
Pray for the government as it begins to release and administer vaccines to frontline healthcare workers, and then to the wider population.

New Missionary
Prayer Mobilization Line December 30, 2020

In the midst of a global pandemic, the mission of the church continues as it prepares, sends, and supports new missionaries for the work of making Christlike disciples in the nations. While others await an opening for travel to the field, one missionary has recently been assigned to the Africa Region, and is hopeful that she may be able to depart for the field in January, 2021. God calls persons with a variety of gifts to meet the current needs in missions.

Tamara (Tami) Foster, assigned to Zambia—to assist the field strategy coordinator with administration, finances and communication. (Africa Region).

Prayer Requests for the Global Church
Prayer Mobilization Line December 2, 2020

Pray for wisdom for church leaders to face the unknowns of an unpredicted season, where many will feel alone and lost.
Pray for continued faithfulness of the people of God in giving that others may come to know our God.
Pray for success in the research and development of vaccines to combat the COVID-19 virus, and equitable availability of those vaccines to all.
Pray for the coming year, that a new reality will prove to be blessed with new insights, approaches, and results as the Church of the Nazarene continues to spread the message of scriptural holiness and hope to the world.
Pray for our missionaries and their families, who are serving in distant countries, that they will know the peace of Christ this Christmas, and the love and support of their church family.
Pray for those who have suffered losses in 2020, and may even dread this season of Advent and Christmas, that they particularly will feel the warm embrace of our Shepherd God who lifts them to His heart, and desires to carry them close.

Pray for the Church in Columbia

Due to the many years of division and conflict in Colombia, it is still not easy to enter new areas with certainty of safety. Missionaries, Colombian district superintendents, and pastors are courageous in their efforts to enter new areas with the Good News of Jesus. Yet, the church continues to grow in Colombia at an incredible rate. Such growth requires the preparation of more pastors and church leaders, and a strong commitment on the part of the church to be a peace-making people who practice grace and pursue unity. As in many countries where there has been significant division led by violent partisan military conflict, Colombia needs peace and stability.

Pictured: The church in Columbia has provided basic food, clothes, personal hygiene items, and prepared food. All this effort has been done with resources from local congregations and the generous support of local members. Along with material support the church has given spiritual and emotional support.

Pray for Nazarenes in Burundi and South Sudan

Pray for the continued church growth experienced in both Burundi and South Sudan, and that evangelism and discipleship efforts will lead to the planting of more churches.
Pray that the poverty, which is so prevalent in these countries, may begin to turn.
Pray for the many new believers in Burundi and South Sudan, that they may come to fully understand and live the holy life of Christ in their communities.
Pray that the three zones in Burundi may grow to become full districts, and that the churches will develop and mature to have an even greater impact in the country.
Pray for the Lord’s protection and peace in Burundi following the recent presidential election.
As stated above, with the large percentage of the population being young people, pray that God will call and raise up young leaders who will minister effectively, especially among the many refugees, making disciples who will be equipped to grow the church in South Sudan.
Pray for the many who are facing hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent flooding that has further displaced many people.
Pray also for greater stability and peace in South Sudan.

See more about the needs and victories of the church in these countries HERE.

Pray for Nazarenes in Bulgaria

In an ongoing legal situation with property in Sofia, a third court appearance is scheduled this month to continue the process of having the property returned to the Church of the Nazarene. Pray for the Lord’s intervention in this significant matter, and that the courts will look favorably on the church’s claim to the property.
Pray for missionary Theresa Grigory, that her application for a visa to return to Bulgaria will be approved.
Pray for newly appointed missionaries, Joshua and Katherine Haun, as they begin the processes of obtaining visas and making their move to Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria. They hope to arrive in November. Pray that doors may be open, their move may go smoothly, and that they will adapt quickly to their assignment.
Pray for the local churches in Bulgaria, as they continue to serve their communities in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the love of Jesus.
Pray that the people of Bulgaria will be open to the good news that Jesus brings, and that the churches will find creative ways to build bridges across the demographic divides, bringing unity and peace.
Pray that the Lord will continue to call young people into ministries in Bulgaria, and that the work of ministerial education, chiefly done through European Nazarene College (EuNC) will be relevant, practical, and suited to the diverse context of Bulgaria as the church continues to grow.

Continue to Pray for Lebanon

The church in Lebanon has responded to immediate and long-term needs in the aftermath of the massive explosion on August 4. Meahwhile, the global church is supporting the response by raising awareness, praying for those in need, and donating to support the relief efforts. One unique way we can encourage specific churches responding in times of crisis is through the prayer page at the NCM website. Prayers submitted on that page are shared with regional leadership to let them know they are uplifted and supported.

Pray for Nigeria

Pray for the economic impact this crisis is having on the Nigerian churches and their pastors who depend upon tithes and offerings.
Pray for the poor and vulnerable communities in Nigeria, and for the churches to continue to find ways to creatively provide what they can to alleviate the suffering of the poor and meet the needs caused by food insecurity experienced in so many families.
Pray for wisdom for the church in Nigeria as it seeks to complete the on-going Lagos district multi-purpose center, and for the church in Okokpon town in Edo state, which has been faced with the challenge of losing its land because the landlord has put the land up for sale. Pray also for the successful completion of the documentation and title-deed process for the Lagos district center and six plots of land.

Missions in a COVID-19 World

Prayer Mobilization Line, July 22, 2020 - Please join us in turning our focus from self to Him in prayer for:

Those missionaries stranded outside of their nations of service, unable to return to ministry because of travel restrictions
The survival of our educational institutions deeply impacted by low student enrollment and the necessity of adjusting to online delivery
The ongoing development and training of districts and leaders now primarily done online via ZOOM
Ongoing strategic conversations regarding missions in a post-COVID era
Leadership at all levels who seek to lead the church in a world that we were unprepared for

Melanesian South Pacific Field

Although the Melanesian South Pacific (MSP) Field has the least amount of COVID-19 cases in the world, the livelihoods of the Pacific Islands nations are highly vulnerable to this current global pandemic. In several cases, MSP missionaries have been unable to return to their assignments due to the impact of COVID-19. In Tonga, missionaries on home assignment, and volunteer therapists had to be repatriated to their home countries leaving the ministry at the Mango Tree Center for families with disabilities understaffed. In Papua New Guinea (PNG), the Kudjip Nazarene Hospital is in dire need of more missionary doctors, medical supplies, and support. In Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu, and Solomon Islands, local churches, although slowly re-opening, are still struggling to recover some degree of normalcy. Nazarenes have a strong faith and commitment to impact their communities with Christ’s love. - Prayer Mobilization Line July 15, 2020

Missions Emphasis: Philippines
Praises

Give thanks that churches continue to grow despite great challenges.
The islands of the Federated States of Micronesia continue to be COVID-19 free and have been able to continue to meet.
Compassionate ministries have fed many people during the lockdown phase of quarantine in the Philippines.
Pastors and lay leaders, not naturally used to technology, have learned how to share the Word using online platforms.
The Field youth conference (NYC) called “Move Reboot” was held on 29–30 May via ZOOM, with over 500 attending online.
Scheduled events: Pastors and Leaders Conference (PALCON) and revival services were held online by the Metro Manila District.
Give thanks that online Lent and Holy Week Devotionals developed on the region were released by the Sunday School and Discipleship Ministries (SDMI), along with daily virtual prayer and Bible studies have been held in the mornings and evenings via ZOOM.
Give thanks for God’s provision through the local church NMI for a missionary from the Philippines to Thailand who has been able to continue with her home assignment during this time.

Prayer Requests

Pray for wisdom in governments as quarantines are lifted and strategies are created to get people back to work.
Pray for our churches as many people have lost their livelihood, which has impacted church finances and the support of pastors.
Pray for the safety of children in the Philippines during this time, and for Child Development Center leadership as they make proposals to the Department of Education for blended learning settings.
Pray for those who cannot connect to technology, that the church will find more effective and creative ways to connect.

Prayer Requests for the Africa Region:
Prayer Mobilization Line June 24, 2020

We are thankful for our regional meetings held recently.
Pray for wisdom for our leaders in light of the current context, that we will have an encounter and get divine wisdom for the way forward.
Pray for our pastors who are both struggling financially and overwhelmed by the uncertainty of how to move forward.
Pray for the family institution. There has been an increase in gender-based violence during this time, especially in countries under lockdown (South Africa).
Pray for peace in a time where hate and violence are becoming a new normal.
We have had a pastor from São Tomé stranded in Equatorial Guinea since 15 March. The church there is taking care of him, but he has been away from his family three full months now. Pray that there would be a way to get him home soon.
Pray for the families affected by flooding in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The waters are going down and people are trying to get into their homes.

Newly Assigned Missionaries, March-June 2020

Prayer Mobilization Line June 17, 2020 - In the midst of a global pandemic, the mission of the church continues as it prepares, sends, and supports new missionaries for the work of making Christlike disciples in the nations. Missionaries have recently been assigned to five of the six world regions, with a variety of ministry assignments awaiting them on the field. These assignments represent the diverse needs typical on all regions. God calls persons with a variety of gifts to meet the current needs in missions.

Lucas and Mindy Swisher (sponsored) assigned to Brazil—Work & Witness coordinator, and teacher (South America Region).
Roger and Deysi Lemus (global) assigned to Guatemala—assistant field strategy coordinator, and secretary for field offices, and district communications (Mesoamerica Region).
Lynnette and Jeremy Page (global) assigned to Philippines—local ministries near Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary, and field finances (Asia-Pacific Region).
Geoff Miller (sponsored) assigned to Germany—Church in Action (Eurasia Region).
Rusty and Lauren Brian (global) assigned to Kenya—Africa Nazarene University professor of theology, and primary school teacher at West Nairobi School (Africa Region).
Vidal and Marie Cole (global) assigned to Nigeria—assistant field strategy coordinator Africa West Field, and Women and Children’s ministries (Africa Region).
Larry and Lynne Bollinger (global) assigned to Philippines—president of Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary (APNTS), and chaplain at APNTS (Asia-Pacific Region).
Carlos Gordon (global) assigned to South Africa—regional finance coordinator (Africa Region).
Joel and Kristin (global) assigned to Eastern Mediterranean Field—finance coordinator (Eurasia Region).

Mission and Ministry
Mission ChallengesThe early days of any missionary’s new assignment involves cultural and contextual adjustment that requires open-mindedness and loving, gracious acceptance of differences they may not have encountered before. Often, culture shock sets in after a period of enchantment with “the new.”

In the current global pandemic, special attention must be given to safety and wellness, either in preparing to go to the mission field, or on arrival to follow host country’s regulations of quarantine and social distancing. These can be difficult times when added to all the other necessary adjustments that await a newly deployed missionary.
Ministry ApproachesThese new missionaries will call upon their training and advanced developments in their fields of service. Sometimes, this requires building bridges between old and new ways of doing things, as well as establishing strong relationships with new co-workers as one crosses cultures. In this, all offer priestly ministries (In the Greek, pontifex=priest=bridgebuilder) as they approach their assignments to the glory of God.
Praises

Give thanks for the many who continue to respond to God’s call upon their lives, and who prepare themselves for cross-cultural service.
Praise God for His faithfulness in gifting those He sends to work in missions through the Church of the Nazarene.
Every newly assigned missionary comes from the context of a local church, where they were nurtured with a spirit of missions. Give thanks for those churches, and for the support they will continue to give.

Prayer Requests

All newly assigned missionaries need to sense the reassurance of the Spirit and the church, that all will be well with the families they leave behind in order to serve. Pray for that reassurance and participate in the care of missionaries’ families on their home districts.
Pray for vigorous health and well-being as missionaries take up their ministries in places still recovering from COVID-19 outbreaks around the world. Pray that they may be kept safe as they serve.
Ask the Lord to help our new missionaries as they seek to learn new languages, and understand new cultures, and that they may find and give grace in challenging situations as they listen and learn.
In some cases, these newly assigned missionaries will take up the work that others have left unfinished. Pray that they will be able to build upon the work of others, and understand the part they play in fulfilling long-developed missions strategies.

Country of Focus: Panama - Prayer Requests

Pray for pastors, that they will have strength to keep going in the midst of these difficult and challenging times.
Pray for those who are out in their communities, and exposed, to provide for those in need, that they may continue to be fearless and joyful in their service of others.
Pray for the missionary families based in Panama.
Pray for the church to be ready for the next phases (getting out, but with no jobs, etc.).
Pray that families may find creative ways to recover from and overcome their economic situations.
That the church can be ready to respond to any emergency that comes. Other disasters will come with the rainy season (occurring now: flooding, which can ruin crops and wash away homes), and the hurricane season later in the summer. - source: https://mailchi.mp/nazarene/pml-06-03-2020?e=c81c22bb66

Board of General Superintendents Call to Prayer

DO NOT FEAR, GOD WILL BRING PEACE!

“And Jehovah goes before you; He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; don't be afraid or intimidated.” (Deuteronomy 31:8, RVR1977)

The world is in tribulation; we face the COVID-19 pandemic. Millions of infected people, insufficient hospitals, medical and nursing personnel serving with insufficient instruments; people without work, without food, families without being able to leave their homes. It all seems that it will not end.

We are making our way through the desert; and it seems that we will not reach the end of this journey and that we will not have what He has promised to those who love Him.

God encourages us to turn away from fear, hostility, and discouragement. May we have faith.

He will bring peace to His people, and they will find a way to worship Him.

In that peace, we unite in thanksgiving and prayer together with the people of God for:

Statistics on patients in the Mesoamerica Region indicate that in almost all countries there are infections. Among them, there are Nazarene brothers and sisters infected, and some have died.
Within the group of health personnel who care for the sick, we have Nazarenes. Let us pray for them, and for all those who care for the sick.
In all countries, we have been asked to stay at home, and this has made an increase in cases of domestic violence. Pray that God will provide peace in every home.
Please pray that God's provision is always in every home, and that we can be of help to those in need.
Pray for God's wisdom for the rulers of each country, so that they make the right decisions.
Pray for those countries where health contingencies have not come true.
Pray for the general, district, and local church leadership, so that we can guide the people at this time.
Pray that Christians will continue to trust in the Lord, and that those who have turned away from their faith in God will return to Him. - Prayer Mobilization Line, May 20, 2020

Board of General Superintendents Call to Prayer

Scripture Reading: Job 19:25–27

Maybe you saw it. The meme said, “I didn’t plan on giving up this much for Lent.” We have laughed, and we have cried during the past few months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Consistently across the globe, people in every country have isolated themselves from others. Life has been simplified to new levels in so many ways. Onsite work is almost non-existent. Families are together for countless hours in their homes. For the first time in decades, parents and children are eating three meals a day around their kitchen tables. What we have considered “essential daily activities” for so long have been taken away.

When all is stripped away, what is left? JESUS REMAINS! Job lost everything that the world said was important, but he was able to say, “I know that my redeemer lives!” We have passed through Easter declaring in the presence of our family and our God, “Christ is risen! He is risen, indeed!” In these simplified moments, let us declare with Job, “We know that our redeemer lives!” Let’s recommit our lives to focus on what matters most—praising Jesus and sharing Him with our world!

Please pray for:

People experiencing grief over the losses they are experiencing in this crisis.
The millions of singles, young and old, who struggle with loneliness and despair during shelter-in-place orders.
The thousands of Sunday schools and small group leaders who are ministering to men, women, and children every week while exploring new and varied ways to connect with their classes.
Sunday School & Discipleship Ministries International (SDMI) district leaders and local SDMI presidents who are prayerfully and creatively guiding ministry initiatives through these challenging times.
The ongoing discipleship of our children and youth across our six regions. For children’s ministry leaders and youth leaders as they navigate these new challenges in ministry.
Parents as they balance the stresses of life, working at home, parenting and discipling their children, and homeschooling.
Christians to share the love of Christ through thoughtful and generous acts of kindness to their family members, friends, and neighbors.
Families whose loved ones are isolated in a senior facility, a nursing home, a rehabilitation center, or a hospital, and cannot physically be in contact with one another.
Those struggling with addictions and the challenges this creates while in isolation. - Prayer Mobilization Line, April 22, 2020

Asia-Pacific Region

As we still ourselves and draw near to God, let’s intercede for those in the Asia-Pacific Region who:
Are ill with the virus
Are providing care to the sick and infected
Are providing relief to those without access to food, clean water, and basic medical care—we have many Nazarenes being the hands and feet of Jesus in these days
Serve as doctors and nurses across the Region, specifically those at the Kudjip Nazarene Hospital in Papua New Guinea
Are serving in creative ways as ministers of the gospel of Jesus Christ in these days of social distancing and isolation
Are living within communities where people are disregarding government safety and health guidelines
Live in remote and isolated islands and regions with no access to medical services
Provide leadership to the nations and governmental structures of the nations of the Asia-Pacific Region, that they would have wisdom and courage to make, implement, and enforce the needed measures to contain the spread of COVID-19
The missionaries who are displaced because of travel restrictions

Pray for Bermuda
General: Bermuda—work established in 1970: 1 organized Nazarene church; 27 members
Regional: Located on USA/CANADA Region, and on the Eastern USA Field
Praises

Give thanks to God. Of the seven people groups in Bermuda, all of them have indigenous communities of believing Christians with adequate numbers and resources to evangelize the groups without outside assistance.
Give thanks that the Body of Christ seeks to be united under His love.

Prayer Requests

Pray for the young pastor God sent to the Church of the Nazarene in Bermuda.
Pray for more opportunities for Bermudians to share the love of Jesus with others, especially with youth and young families.
Please pray that God will send musicians and a worship leader to the Nazarene church in Bermuda. - Nazarene Prayer Mobilization Line, March 11, 2020

Twal Family in Jerusalem

Annabelle and Shahade Twal moved their family from Switzerland to Jerusalem, Israel, in 2014. The Twals assumed leadership of the Jerusalem Church of the Nazarene, a diverse English-speaking group of expatriates from around the world, as well as some local Christians fluent in English. Two of the Twals’ daughters attend a school where students learn German as a second language. Annabelle is fluent in German, and she was asked to tutor some of the other students. At the same time, a few of the students’ parents asked Shahade if he would organize a Bible study in Arabic. The Twals combined the requests into one weekly gathering. They launched a weekly two-hour German class for the children in one area of the church, while the parents met in another area to study the Bible. Give thanks for these learning opportunities for the community, and please pray for the church as it continues to serve those around them in such creative ways. To learn more, please click here. - Nazarene Prayer Mobilization Line, June 5, 2019

Pray for Missions

Trinity Church of the Nazarene, Fort Wayne, Indiana4150 Stellhorn Rd.Fort Wayne, IN 46815Phone: 260-485-0312[email protected]

Trinity Church of the Nazarene, Fort Wayne, Indiana
4150 Stellhorn Rd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46815
Phone: 260-485-0312
[email protected]