Prayer Diary Spring 2015 by Tearfund

SPRING ’15

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‘GOD IS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH’ Psalm 46:1

tearfund.org/prayer

EASTER BLESSINGS

Remembering Christ’s sacrifice

EBOLA EMERGENCY Prayers for West Africa

WINTER IN SYRIA Bringing hope amid conflict

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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WELCOME... ‘PEBBLES FOR TEARFUND!’ We’re so thankful to all of you who pray diligently for Tearfund, day by day. But we know that it’s hard sometimes. So I’d like to share an encouraging story to inspire your prayers over the coming months. Two young sisters and their cousin from Liverpool – 13-year-old Hannah-May, and Lizzie and Lauren, who are both 11 – wanted to do something to support Tearfund in the school holidays. They were inspired by their grandmother, Gloria Pollard, a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Mold, North Wales. While they were all on holiday together in Kent, the girls decorated pebbles and placed them on the sea wall. Gloria says, ‘I suggested that they write verses of scripture on the pebbles. They were excited to see people taking the pebbles as they went by. ‘The girls asked me if they could make some for my church. So I explained that they could use the pebbles to support Tearfund, as Ebenezer Baptist does.’ So the girls set to work, frantically decorating more pebbles. ‘So I prayed, “Lord, bless your word,”’ Gloria explains. ‘“Your promise is that it will not return to you empty.” Then one of the girls ran in with a pebble. A passer-by who picked up a pebble with a Bible verse from the sea wall had written “thank you” on it!’ This inspired the girls to produce more and more, writing ‘Pebbles for Tearfund’ and ‘Pick a Pebble and Pledge a Promise to Tearfund’ on them. ‘By the time we went home they made sure everyone they met had a decorated pebble,’ says Gloria. ‘The excitement was uplifting!’ So think of each of your prayers as a pebble that someone far away across the world will pick up and whisper, ‘Thank you.’

Editor

Peter Shaw twitter @TearTimes | email praying@tearfund.org Photo: Layton Thompson/Tearfund

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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CONTENTS 04 Humanity restored in Iraq Prayer for peace and healing

‘MAY THE GOD OF HOPE FILL YOU WITH ALL JOY’ ROMANS 15:13

05 Comfort amid crisis in Syria Prayer for those caught in conflict 06 Ebola emergency Lifting up West Africa 07 Post-match Brazil Prayers following the World Cup 08 Hunger in South Sudan Calling on God to release a harvest 09 Determination in Darfur Prayer for Tearfund’s emergency work 10 Peace hymns in Bolivia Lifting up this Latin American nation 11 Restoring the Philippines Giving thanks for lives rebuilt 12 Getting churches active Celebrating church transformation 13 Choosing the cross Reflecting on Jesus’ sacrifice this Easter 16 Called to serve Encouragement from the enquiries team 17 Light in Mumbai Reflections from the red-light district 18 Support from Scotland Prayer for our amazing fundraisers 19 Those in authority Lifting up the UK’s general election 20 God so loved the world Thanking God for his amazing creation 21 Cheerful givers Celebrating our supporters 22 Aroma of peace Prayer for peace in Colombia 23 Prayer resources More opportunities to pray

Photo: Tom Price/Integral Alliance

Cover: May and her children outside their home in Basey, Philippines Photo: Tom Price/Integral Alliance

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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HUMANITY RESTORED IN IRAQ: 25 – 31 JANUARY Last year, the brutal advance of Islamic State militants forced more than 2 million people to flee their homes in Iraq. This week we pray for peace, healing and restoration for this troubled nation.

SUNDAY 25 JANUARY ‘News spread fast of the bloodbaths, and countless women being raped or trafficked,’ says Siraj, a Yazidi, who escaped from the Mount Sinjar massacre. Ask God to heal and comfort all who have experienced such horrors, and give thanks for Tearfund’s partner, who trained trauma care workers to respond.

TUESDAY 27 JANUARY ‘One of hardest things about aid work is knowing that the hungry, frightened, desperate people we’re helping are the lucky ones who managed to escape,’ says Tearfund’s Katie. More than 2 million people in Iraq are trapped beyond the reach of aid agencies. Pray that God will protect and provide for them.

FRIDAY 30 JANUARY Jibran is a displaced farmer, sharing an unfinished building with 18 others. A resourceful man, he started to grow vegetables in a nearby field shortly after he arrived. ‘Life is difficult for us, but we will keep surviving till we can go home,’ Jibran says. Pray for peace in Iraq so that people can return home.

MONDAY 26 JANUARY ‘Winter is gruelling for Iraq’s displaced people living in makeshift shelters or unfinished buildings. Najid fled with only one set of summer clothes to keep him warm. Praise God that Najid purchased warm clothes with an emergency grant from Tearfund. ‘I am immensely grateful to Tearfund for treating us with such humanity,’ he says.

WEDNESDAY 28 JANUARY Zuhrah has four young children, including a baby, Basil. She received a grant from Tearfund to buy winter clothes and heaters for her family. ‘We are so grateful – it’s the first real help we’ve had since arriving,’ says Zuhrah. Pray for secure futures for the children displaced by the conflict.

SATURDAY 31 JANUARY It’s inspiring to hear of the churches in Iraq reaching out to those in desperate need. ‘I long to help everyone in this crisis, whatever their faith,’ one pastor told us. ‘That’s what Christ commands. If someone is hungry, feed him.’ Praise God for the light and hope the church is bringing.

THURSDAY 29 JANUARY ‘Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.’ Matthew 5:44 Pray that the perpetrators of the atrocities in Iraq will experience a radical change of heart, becoming people who seek peace and reconciliation. Thank God that no one is beyond the reach of his redeeming love.

‘CHRIST COMMANDS: IF SOMEONE IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM’

Zuhrah and her children were given a grant for clothes Photo: Mariam Tadros/Tearfund

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA

A ‘breath prayer’ is a centuries-old Christian practice of taking a short prayer of praise or petition to repeat throughout the day. Think of a simple prayer you can pray over Iraq whenever you hear a news story about the troubles there – for example, ‘Lord, have mercy’ or ‘Come, Lord Jesus’.

Some names have been changed to protect identities.

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Conflict in Syria has forced more than 3 million to flee Photo: Sara Guy/Tearfund

COMFORT AMID CRISIS IN SYRIA: 1 – 7 FEBRUARY Since it began almost four years ago, the civil war in Syria has brought death, devastation and darkness of all kinds. But even in the hardest places, we know that God can shine the light of his love and hope…

SUNDAY 1 FEBRUARY The conflict in Syria has forced more than 3 million to flee the country. Many people within Syria are trapped in besieged areas, beyond the reach of aid agencies. Pray for God’s comfort, protection and provision for those in desperate need and pray earnestly for a peaceful resolution to the conflict to be found soon.

‘THE SITUATION WAS EITHER WE DIE OR WE LEAVE’ MONDAY 2 FEBRUARY ‘The situation was either we die or we leave,’ says Safiyya. Eight months pregnant, she fled Syria with her husband after seeing her cousin killed. Thank God that she is now safe and working at a kindergarten for refugee children run by a Tearfund partner in Jordan. Lift up all those who are traumatised by what they have seen and grieving many losses.

TUESDAY 3 FEBRUARY Refugee children are often unable to access education in their new countries. Praise God that a Tearfund partner in Lebanon is running a school for 205 Syrian children. ‘I love my school because all of us there are united and love one another,’ says Samra. ‘It will always be a sweet memory in my life.’ WEDNESDAY 4 FEBRUARY Winters in Lebanon and Jordan can be bitterly cold, especially for the many refugees who live in tents. Praise God that a Tearfund partner is providing heaters and fuel to refugee families, and pray for all who are struggling to stay warm. THURSDAY 5 FEBRUARY ‘In Syria, many churches are becoming places of compassion for everyone, regardless of faith or ethnic background,’ says Rupen, who leads one of Tearfund’s partners. Praise God for this, and pray for energy and protection for those who are reaching out in love to people affected by the conflict.

FRIDAY 6 FEBRUARY Ahmad and Fatima fled Syria when their house was torn down. Lift up refugees like them who are struggling financially, missing loved ones and desperate to return home. ‘No matter how far you travel, your home town is your home town,’ says Ahmad. ‘If they gave me half of Lebanon or one house in Syria, I would go back to Syria.’ SATURDAY 7 FEBRUARY Heavenly Father, we bring before you the people of the Middle East in the knowledge that you love and care for them deeply. We ask you to pour out your comfort and healing on all who are grieving, fearful and traumatised, and bring peace to their countries so that they can begin rebuilding their lives.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA

Saturday’s prayer was taken from our Middle East prayer guide, which features Bible reflections and prayers for Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Jordan. Visit tearfund.org/middleeast to download a copy.

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY Pray that churches will respond to the needs of their communities by caring for orphans and people who have lost family members or possessions to the disease. Ask also that churches will raise awareness to help stop the spread of Ebola, and reduce the stigma placed on those affected and their families. MONDAY 9 FEBRUARY ‘Thanks to God, I am cured. But now I have a new disease – I am a victim of stigmatisation. This stigma is worse than the fever,’ says Dr Melvin Korkor, Ebola survivor from Liberia. Lift up the people recovering from Ebola and ask God to protect them from stigma. TUESDAY 10 FEBRUARY ‘Some health clinics refuse to treat pregnant women due to fear of coming in contact with blood and other bodily fluids,’ says Rose Varney, administrator of the Liberty Clinic in Liberia. Ask God to take away the spirit of fear and the stigma that surrounds Ebola, and pray that he will enable sick mothers to be treated.

WEDNESDAY 11 FEBRUARY ‘So many lives have been severely affected,’ says Francis Wahome, head of Tearfund’s work in Sierra Leone. Lift up the governments of Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone, and the international organisations responding to the crisis, including Tearfund, as they form and implement strategies to combat the spread of the disease. THURSDAY 12 FEBRUARY Pray that God will bless Tearfund partners on the front line – Association of Evangelicals in Liberia, Equip Liberia, Evangelical Fellowship of Sierra Leone and the New Harvest Development Office – who are striving to stop the spread of Ebola. Ask that their staff will be free to operate effectively. FRIDAY 13 FEBRUARY Pray for the safety and health of Tearfund staff already in Ebolaaffected countries, and for others who are preparing to go. Ask that the right people will be available and willing to serve God with Tearfund by travelling to the region to provide vital support and assistance to our partners.

SATURDAY 14 FEBRUARY The effects of the Ebola outbreak will continue for many months and years. Pray that there will be continued media attention and awareness about the crisis. Ask that the UK’s support for affected nations will continue until the outbreak is contained, and beyond, to assist devastated families to recover long term.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – WHAT YOU CAN DO The Ebola outbreak has been devastating West Africa for more than a year now, and its effects on families, orphans and communities will last for many years. Please continue to persevere in prayer. Tearfund have produced a series of resources to help you and your church to pray, which you can find here: tearfund.org/ebola

The Ebola outbreak is devastating families across West Africa Photo: Ralph Hodgson/Tearfund

EBOLA EMERGENCY: 8 – 14 FEBRUARY Some of the poorest countries in West Africa still face a national emergency as they attempt to tackle the deadly Ebola virus. We pray for an end to this outbreak which has claimed nearly 6,000 lives, left countless children orphaned and stretched poorly resourced health services to the limit.

Following Jesus where the need is greatest Child exploitation is still rife in Brazil Photo: Sam Barker/Tearfund

POS T-MATCH BRAZIL: 15 – 21 FEBRUARY

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Last year’s football World Cup took place in Brazil, a country which is developing rapidly but which still has areas of extreme poverty, and where child exploitation is rife. This week, we explore how Tearfund partners tackled child exploitation among the poorest communities in Brazil before, during and after the tournament.

SUNDAY 15 FEBRUARY Brazil spent close to £6.5 billion on the World Cup. However, promises to improve infrastructure across the country have not been kept. Pray for those Brazilians who feel angry and let down; pray that government attention will now turn to improving services, so that all Brazilians may benefit.

‘I HAVE SEEN MANY GIRLS BEING ABUSED WHO ARE SCARED TO TALK’ MONDAY 16 FEBRUARY In the run-up to the World Cup, one of Tearfund’s partners brought more than 200 churches and hundreds of organisations together to run the Bola na Rede (Ball in the Net) campaign, to protect children from sexual exploitation. Praise God for this network of people, passionate about making a difference in children’s lives.

TUESDAY 17 FEBRUARY Brazil has the highest rate of child sexual abuse in Latin America and the second highest in the world. The Bola na Rede campaign resulted in 210 events across Brazil, to educate tourists and protect vulnerable children from sexual abuse. Pray for God’s protection over those children who are still at risk of being exploited. WEDNESDAY 18 FEBRUARY ‘We have problems with people, violence and sexual abuse,’ says Louisa, 12, who lives in a Brazilian slum. ‘I was abused.’ She recently joined a Tearfund partner project which empowers young people to advocate on issues that affect them. Thank God that this is bringing life and hope to children living in slums, and pray that Louisa will be protected. THURSDAY 19 FEBRUARY In 11 of the 12 host cities, Tearfund partners organised events, including walks, drama, flash mobs, prayer vigils, World Cup Bible Schools and ‘safe spaces’ for children. Thank God for improved awareness about safeguarding children and pray that those who heard this message will advocate for children’s rights.

FRIDAY 20 FEBRUARY ‘I have seen many girls being abused who are scared to talk,’ says Gustavo, 12. Through Bola na Rede, the church and the children themselves are speaking out about children’s rights. Pray for Gustavo, who is is now standing up for others. He says: ‘If someone is abused, I should be their voice.’ SATURDAY 21 FEBRUARY With the Olympic Games coming to Brazil in 2016, there is still more work to be done. Praise God for the successes of Bola na Rede so far and pray for its future as organisers think of new ways to communicate, engage and upscale the work to protect more vulnerable children.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – WHAT YOU CAN DO Take some time this weekend to remind yourself how much Jesus loved and cared for children, and how he commands us to do the same. Read Mark 10:13–16 and spend some time praying for children you know, in your family, church or neighbourhood.

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HUNGER IN SOUTH SUDAN: 22 – 28 FEBRUARY Since the conflict began in South Sudan in December 2013, about 1.7 million people have fled their homes and 3.9 million people have struggled to find enough food. The harvest last autumn provided respite for some, but countless others still face severe food insecurity. SUNDAY 22 FEBRUARY Give thanks for those who gave generously to Tearfund’s South Sudan Appeal. This money has enabled us to respond to the emergency. Between January and October 2014, Tearfund reached more than 138,000 people affected by conflict across South Sudan, including some 48,000 children. Pray that this generous giving continues as South Sudan is still in great need. MONDAY 23 FEBRUARY The boreholes Tearfund has built in Katigiri enabled families who fled the fighting to collect water when they needed to, close to their new homes. Previously, collecting water would take six hours. Ask God to bless the families who benefit from the new water supply.

TUESDAY 24 FEBRUARY Got was brought to one of Tearfund’s feeding centres in Jonglei state in July 2014. He needed medical care because he was severely malnourished. Pray that Got and the thousands like him needing urgent care will regain full health. WEDNESDAY 25 FEBRUARY Selwa is tending to the crop of cowpeas she has planted thanks to seeds and tools from Tearfund. Selwa and her family left everything behind when they were driven out of their home by the conflict. Pray that the harvest will enable her to feed her six children.

THURSDAY 26 FEBRUARY Praise God for the school which was set up with the help of Tearfund and the local church in a camp for people who have fled their homes. Bibiana, whose older children attend the school, says, ‘I am happy that my children can go to school here. That way they will get knowledge and be OK in the future.’ FRIDAY 27 FEBRUARY In the same camp Tearfund has provided food, toilets, cooking kits and drinking water for the 292 families there, including Cecilia whose baby, Away, was born in the camp six months ago. Please pray that these families and others like them have all they need to survive. SATURDAY 28 FEBRUARY ‘You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word.’ Psalm 119:114 Father, be a refuge and shield to the people of South Sudan who have been affected by conflict. May they know your comfort and hope in this time of trouble. In your Son, Jesus’, name. Amen.

‘I AM HAPPY THAT MY CHILDREN CAN GO TO SCHOOL HERE’

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA Individually, or as a group, write your own prayer for the people of South Sudan. Perhaps there is a Bible verse that inspired you, such as Psalm 31:24, which says, ‘Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.’ You could send an email to southsudanprayer@tearfund.org to inspire the team working in South Sudan.

Nearly 4 million people are going hungry in South Sudan Photo: Anna Chilvers/Tearfund

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‘IF ONE PART SUFFERS, EVERY PART SUFFERS WITH IT’ 1 Corinthians 12:26

D ETERMINATION IN DAFUR: 1 – 7 MARCH

Every year Sudan experiences flooding and drought Photo: Sarah Pickwick/Tearfund

SUNDAY 1 MARCH The conflict in Darfur began in 2003 and ever since there has been constant displacement. More than 400,000 people have been newly displaced in 2014 alone. Give thanks that, despite this insecurity, Tearfund has been able to operate and reach those in need. MONDAY 2 MARCH Sudan’s next general election is planned for next month. Pray that this process is peaceful and transparent, and pray for the future of Sudan’s leadership. Pray also that those elected have good governance and care and concern for the Sudanese people, which will help the country move forward and away from conflict. TUESDAY 3 MARCH So far, conflict in South Sudan has forced more than 100,000 people to cross into neighbouring Sudan. It’s a hard life for a refugee: they often flee with very little and can face tribal discrimination. Pray for the hostilities in South Sudan to cease so that these refugees can return home.

Tearfund began working in Darfur, Sudan, in 2004 and currently operates in four areas Um Dukhun, Nertiti, Ed Daein and Kass. This week, we pray for Tearfund’s work in the fields of nutrition, water and sanitation, emergency response and food security in Darfur.

WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH Conflict causes many problems, but nature also plays its part. Every year Sudan experiences flooding and drought and the effects of these are magnified by the conflict. Pray for wisdom for the Tearfund team, and other agencies, who are responding to the needs of people affected by extreme weather. THURSDAY 5 MARCH Darfur receives very little media attention, and this affects the amount of funding governments pledge to support Sudan. Pray that people will be generous towards Sudan so that Tearfund can continue to effectively and compassionately serve families in greatest need. FRIDAY 6 MARCH Working as part of the Tearfund team responding in Sudan can be stressful and dangerous. The need is great and the team encounter many difficulties. Despite this, the team serve faithfully and bring hope to many vulnerable people. Give thanks for their dedication and passion, and commit them to the Lord for protection.

SATURDAY 7 MARCH Tearfund’s Kass project in South Darfur is piloting a new livelihood activity among women – soapmaking! Let’s praise God that this has been incredibly successful, and the women have been selling their soap at the local market to provide a source of income for their family.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – SMALL GROUP PRAYER ID EA

Write down a list of nine people whom you care about. When you get to the ninth person, stop and ask yourself, how would you feel if one of those people were suffering? Then reflect on this: we are one in Christ. So when one of our brothers or sisters in Christ is suffering because of hunger, we all suffer (1 Corinthians 12:26a).

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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PEACE HYMNS IN BOLIVIA: 8 – 14 MARCH Bolivia boasts tropical rainforests, vast highland plateaus and horizons serrated with dramatic mountain peaks. But some areas are also home to brutal poverty, marginalised people groups and broken homes...

SUNDAY 8 MARCH Despite its wealth of natural resources, Bolivia is one of the least developed countries in Latin America. Almost half of its population live in poverty. There is pronounced inequality between wealthy urban elites and the majority of Bolivians. Pray for a more equal future where all can prosper. MONDAY 9 MARCH Praise God for Tearfund’s partner, Mosoj Yan, which provides a safe home for young women in Cochabamba who have suffered violence or abuse. Monica was just 17 when she came to the Restoration Shelter with her baby, Eva. ‘I encountered God when he brought me here,’ says Monica. ‘I recognised that he had been taking care of me all the time.’

TUESDAY 10 MARCH Five hours’ drive from Cochabamba is the remote village of Tipa Tipa, home mainly to indigenous Quechua families. Thank God that, through Unión Cristiana Evangélica, a church network supported by Tearfund, these families now have clean, piped water and latrines in their homes. Pray for better access to essential services for Bolivia’s marginalised communities. WEDNESDAY 11 MARCH ‘It’s wonderful,’ says Pastor Teodoro, leader of the church in Tipa Tipa. ‘Now we have new people coming to our church because they see that we’re concerned for their material needs as well as their spiritual needs.’ Pray that more churches across Bolivia will catch this vision.

‘WHERE THERE IS PAIN, SUFFERING, DEATH AND DARKNESS, GOD WANTS TO BRING LIGHT, LIFE, HOPE AND FREEDOM’

Bolivia is one of the least developed countries in Latin America Photo: Geoff Crawford/Tearfund

THURSDAY 12 MARCH Tearfund partner OESER is teaching Bolivian teenagers about healthy sexuality based on biblical principles – and state schools across three cities are now using its materials. Give thanks that many young people are hearing about God’s love for the first time, and pray that sexually transmitted diseases will decrease. FRIDAY 13 MARCH In Potosí, poverty forces hundreds of children to work in the city’s mines, at the expense of their health and education. Lift up Tearfund’s partner, Red Viva, which runs centres to provide the children who work in the mines with healthcare, nutritious meals and education. Pray that local churches will provide more volunteers to continue the project. SATURDAY 14 MARCH Father, the Bolivian national anthem speaks of ‘sweet hymns of peace and unity’. We pray for peace and unity to flow in broken families and between the diverse communities in Bolivia. May your church move forward in unity, bringing peace, love and hope to all in need. Amen.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – WHAT YOU CAN DO The mining in Potosí takes place in the Cerro Rico mountain. After visiting the city, a Tearfund supporter wrote, ‘I felt the Lord say that he wants to make the mountain like Mount Zion – that, where there is pain, suffering, death and darkness, God wants to bring light, life, hope and freedom.’ Read Psalm 126 as a prayer for Potosí and the whole of Bolivia.

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

RES TORING THE PHILIPPINES: 15 – 21 MARCH

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More than 14 million people were affected by Typhoon Haiyan which tore through the Philippines on 7 November 2013. Nearly a year and a half later, there is much to thank God for.

WEDNESDAY 18 MARCH Nelson and Florentina, along with two of their children and grandchildren, are now living in a About 24,000 Filipinos still don’t have new home built by Tearfund. Praise permanent shelter SUNDAY 15 MARCH God for the hope, security and Photo: Tom Price/Integral Alliance Nelson and Florentina Orate are health experienced by those who fishermen who used to sell their are now living in safe dwellings. SATURDAY 21 MARCH catch in Roxas city centre. The Pray for the 24,000 individuals who Thank God for the presence of his super typhoon destroyed their are still without permanent shelter. church in the Philippines, and for boat and its motor was lost at sea, the way that churches engaged in leaving the Orates with no source THURSDAY 19 MARCH responding to disasters and being of income. Pray for all those who Trauma support and provision of more prepared for them. Pray for lost their livelihoods as a result of safe play and education areas for unity and grace for churches as they Haiyan, for God’s provision and children have been a focus for work together to reach the people restoration. Tearfund’s partner in Samar. Lord, of the Philippines with his love. we ask for your blessing, safety and MONDAY 16 MARCH healing for all the children who have The Orates lost their home in the suffered as a result of the typhoon. storm and, like many Filipinos, built a temporary shelter from remnants FRIDAY 20 MARCH they could salvage. Give thanks to ‘The Lord is close to the God for the tremendous strength brokenhearted and saves those who and resilience of the Filipino people, are crushed in spirit.’ which has been a fundamental Psalm 34:18 factor in the country’s recovery. While physical repair work and TUESDAY 17 MARCH rebuilding have made great With more than 280,000 homes progress, many people are still damaged or destroyed, many suffering tremendous emotional families rebuilt their homes as best pain and loss. Pray that those who they could. But not all these homes are grieving will experience God’s will withstand future storms. ‘I lost presence and healing. sleep about how we could replace our leaky roofs, low ceiling, shaky WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – floors and walls that could collapse WHAT YOU CAN DO any time,’ says Florentina. Pray Tearfund works on climate change because extreme weather patterns for the work of Tearfund partners, hit the poorest people hardest. Poor communities across the world, who are building and strengthening including in the Philippines, tell us they are already feeling the impact shelters, and training communities of changes to their environment. Visit our website to find out more: to build better, safer homes. tearfund.org/climate

‘THE LORD IS CLOSE TO THE BROKENHEARTED AND SAVES THOSE WHO ARE CRUSHED IN SPIRIT’

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

12 . PRAYER DIARY

Active churches are transforming lives in Tanzania Photo: Louise Thomas/Tearfund

GETTING CHURCHES ACTIVE: 22 – 28 MARCH In Tanzania, churches are being inspired to make lasting changes in their communities, using the resources and skills they already have. This week, we give thanks for ‘church and community mobilisation’ in southern Africa, a Tearfund-supported process that uses Bible-based training to get churches active and engaged in meeting the needs in their communities.

‘I USED TO THINK THAT THE BIBLE IS ONLY FOR SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT’ SUNDAY 22 MARCH Mr Chamunorwa from Shurugwi in Zimbabwe found that, through church and community mobilisation, he has deepened his relationship with God. He says, ‘This has helped me to understand I should not look down upon myself because God has created me for a purpose.’ Thank God for how he is moving in people’s lives in Zimbabwe. MONDAY 23 MARCH The church and community mobilisation process helps people see that change is possible and within their reach. Rev Kanyume in Tanzania says, ‘I used to think that the Bible is only for spiritual development. I had no idea about integral mission despite four years of theological training.’ Give thanks for the encouragement and understanding church mobilisation gives to individuals and communities. TUESDAY 24 MARCH Praise God for improved relationships that develop through church mobilisation. Mrs Chiwetu, from Zindoga Rusape in Zimbabwe, found the Bible studies inspired her to start her own chicken project instead of relying on her husband’s income. This helped them work together on their finances.

WEDNESDAY 25 MARCH Nancy Karimi from Kenya struggled to make ends meet after her husband died. The community irrigation project, brought about through church mobilisation, enabled her to plant bananas, potatoes, tomatoes and sweet potatoes. Thank God that she can now feed her family, and has enough left to pay for school fees, buy clothes and help people poorer than herself. THURSDAY 26 MARCH Mobilising churches can transform people’s understanding too. Students at Msolato Theological College in Tanzania were inspired by church and community mobilisation to establish a garden to grow food for the students, not easy in an arid climate. Pray that their garden will flourish and provide enough for the students to eat.

FRIDAY 27 MARCH Churches are starting to engage with local officials and press for better services, thanks to church and community mobilisation. In Okulonyo community in Uganda, the church organised a community discussion. This resulted in the district authorities providing medicines for the community health worker and visits from a mobile health clinic. These medical services are housed in a centre built by the community. Pray for communities like them who are engaging local government to bring change. SATURDAY 28 MARCH Heavenly Father, we thank you that you bring new life to individuals and communities through active and engaged churches. Please continue to help communities see how much you’ve already given them and what they can use to improve their lives. Amen.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA Church and community mobilisation seeks to inspire people to make changes in their community through Bible study. On your own, or in a group, think of what Bible verses have inspired you to act and work for change in your community.

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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CHOOSING THE CROSS: 29 MARCH – 11 APRIL ‘Yet not my will, but yours be done.’ Luke 22:42b Over the next two weeks, we reflect on Christ’s suffering, death and resurrection. The cross was something Jesus chose to endure, in obedience to God the Father. This Easter, as you read some of the biblical accounts of Jesus’ final days in his earthly body, ask God to challenge you to choose the less comfortable paths in different areas of your life...

SUNDAY 29 MARCH ‘[Jesus] began to teach [the disciples] that the Son of Man must suffer many things... that he must be killed and after three days rise again.’ Mark 8:31 Lord Jesus, we thank you today that you chose to endure pain and suffering on the cross for our sake. MONDAY 30 MARCH ‘The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head.’ John 19:2a There’s a particularly cruel irony here that the King of Kings is forced to wear a crown that causes only humiliation, pain and discomfort. Lord, we ask forgiveness for our sins, and thank you that you chose to take up the cross.

‘JESUS SAID, “IT IS FINISHED.” WITH THAT, HE BOWED HIS HEAD AND GAVE UP HIS SPIRIT’ John 19:30

TUESDAY 31 MARCH ‘Those who passed by hurled insults at him... saying, “... Come down from the cross and save yourself!”’ Mark 15:29–30 People living in poverty often feel worthless, and face daily insults and abuse. Thank God that Jesus associated himself with people who were rejected and outcast when he chose the cross.

WEDNESDAY 1 APRIL ‘They offered Jesus wine to drink, mixed with gall; but after tasting it, he refused to drink it.’ Matthew 27:34

SATURDAY 4 APRIL ‘We remember that while he was still alive that deceiver said, “After three days I will rise again.”’ Matthew 27:63

When Jesus tasted the wine, he recognised it had pain-numbing qualities and refused to drink more. Reflect on Jesus’ choice to experience physical suffering for our sake, sharing the suffering that many people endure through injury or disability.

Even after suffering and dying, Jesus was still being insulted and was called ‘that deceiver’ by the chief priests and the Pharisees. Lord, we choose today to praise your holy name, Jesus Christ, Son of God!

THURSDAY 2 APRIL ‘Very truly I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.’ John 12:24 Ask God to challenge you about an area in your life you could choose to let ‘die’, so that he can multiply it to produce many seeds.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA

Take an hour or two over the long weekend to read the full account of the Easter story in Luke chapters 23 and 24. Keep the thought in your mind that this was something Jesus chose to do for the whole world, and for each and every one of us.

GOOD FRIDAY 3 APRIL ‘Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.’ John 19:30 Jesus’ choice to take up the cross meant suffering and ultimately death. Then victory. Reflect on Jesus’ final words, ‘It is finished’. It’s a cry of relief – the pain would end – but also of triumph: victory is coming!

Church cross in Laos Photo: Ralph Hodgson/Tearfund

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‘HE IS NOT HERE; HE HAS RISEN!’ Luke 24:6

Evangelical church in Laos Photo: Edward Woods/Tearfund

EASTER SUNDAY 5 APRIL ‘He is not here; he has risen!’ Luke 24:6a Imagine the expression of wonder and delight when the ‘two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning’ proclaimed, for the first time, that Jesus is alive! Praise our wonderful Saviour who chose the cross so that we too might be resurrected to new life! MONDAY 6 APRIL ‘Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!”’John 20:18a Lord Jesus, we ask you to renew our passion and delight in experiencing you. Help us to remember the first time our hearts cried, ‘I have seen the Lord!’ TUESDAY 7 APRIL ‘Go and make disciples of all nations...’ Matthew 28:19a Praise God that Tearfund’s Christian partners and the local churches we work with are declaring the resurrection of Jesus and demonstrating God’s love through their actions in more than 50 nations across the world.

WEDNESDAY 8 APRIL ‘Then [Jesus] appeared to James, then to all the apostles, and last of all he appeared to me also...’ 1 Corinthians 15:7–8

FRIDAY 10 APRIL ‘You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. We are witnesses of this.’ Acts 3:15

Praise God that people haven’t stopped having encounters with the risen Christ since the day he rose again. Ask Jesus to show himself to one of your friends, or a member of your family.

Lord, we ask you to give us opportunities to bear witness to the resurrection of Jesus, by sharing the good news. We also ask that others will see Christ-like freedom and compassion reflected in our actions and deeds. Amen.

THURSDAY 9 APRIL ‘I want to know Christ – yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.’ Philippians 3:10 Reflect on this verse today. Jesus’ suffering and death are not something we simply observe, but – as Paul the Apostle asserts here – we are called to participate in his suffering so that we can ‘become like’ Jesus and in turn know his resurrection power.

SATURDAY 11 APRIL ‘I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.’ Luke 24:49 Thank you, Lord, that Jesus’ suffering, death and resurrection give us the power to transform lives as we share the wonderful story of Jesus conquering death. Amen.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – WHAT YOU CAN DO Luke 24:49 reveals that the disciples would receive power because of the death and resurrection of Christ. As followers of Jesus, we share that power too, so that he can be made known. So, choose to be bold today: think of an area of need in your community or across the world, and ask Jesus how you can speak out, pray, give and act in response.

‘WE NEED BREAD AND FOOD TO SURVIVE BUT WE NEED JESUS TO LIVE’

Waitrose pastry chef Will Torrent Photo: Tom Price/Tearfund

BREAD OF LIFE Easter prayer activity for your church or small group Matthew 26:17-30 Will Torrent is a professional pastry chef, a consultant to Waitrose and cookbook author. He shared with us a prayer and worship activity from his church. Could your church do something similar? ‘Jesus says, “I am the bread of life.” We need bread and food to survive but we need Jesus to live. There’s so much joy in eating together, especially with Christ at the centre of that activity.

‘One thing I always think about is the last supper. I mean, it’s one of the most important moments in Jesus’ life and what do they do? They sit down and eat a meal together. ‘At my church last year, we looked at the last few days of Christ’s life over a period of weeks. When we looked at the Last Supper, we wanted to do something different. So we put away all the chairs and laid out rugs, blankets and cushions on the floor. ‘We shared in a meal of shepherd’s pie and bread, and then shared communion and some reflective worship. People are still talking about it because it was so different and it showed how spiritual and sacrificial sharing a meal can be. The importance of eating in scripture is something I really want to get into and study more.’

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The team at Tearfund who phone to encourage supporters Photo: Michael Owen/Tearfund

CALLED TO SERVE: 1 2 – 18 APRIL None of the work we do would be possible without you, our incredible supporters. This week we feature inspiring stories from our team at Tearfund who phone and encourage people who pray, give and speak out on behalf of people living in poverty.

SUNDAY 12 APRIL Margaret, who recently joined the team that phones supporters, has been encouraged by hearing about the conversations her team have had with supporters. ‘It’s a privilege to learn from the team about inspiring encounters. I look forward to sharing in these amazing stories.’ Pray for the team as they build and strengthen relationships.

‘IT’S A PRIVILEGE TO LEARN FROM THE TEAM ABOUT INSPIRING ENCOUNTERS’ MONDAY 13 APRIL Stephen spoke to one supporter who can’t work because of health problems. She felt their conversation was an answer to prayer. She said: ‘I sometimes wonder what God is doing, but it’s lovely to hear that, even with my condition, I can help people.’ Pray for Tearfund supporters facing illness or disability, that God will draw close to them.

TUESDAY 14 APRIL Charlotte remembers one particularly encouraging conversation with a supporter who has been giving for more than 30 years. ‘It really is a privilege to share with supporters,’ she says. ‘So often I am left both humbled and inspired!’ Ask God to give you opportunities to encourage others. WEDNESDAY 15 APRIL The team also have the privilege of praying with supporters. Sarita recently spoke to a lady who was facing hard times. ‘It’s humbling to encourage our wonderful supporters and meet them where they are on their journey.’ Pray that the team will be able to reflect Jesus’ compassion during their phone calls.

THURSDAY 16 APRIL Kit was pleased to hear how passionate one supporter, who celebrated her 90th birthday last year, is about our work. Rather than receive presents, she asked friends and family to make a donation to Tearfund. Ask God to show you how you can show generosity at times of celebration. FRIDAY 17 APRIL Abigail recently had a conversation with a supporter who shared her testimony of how God has blessed her so she can help others. ‘I give to Tearfund because Jesus tells me to and he has earned my complete obedience,’ she says. Pray that God will bless our supporters so that they will be able to bless others more. SATURDAY 18 APRIL Spyros, who leads the team, recalls one supporter who was delighted to have found a way to make a difference to people living in poverty. ‘I always find it very moving when a supporter thanks us, when they are the ones who make our work possible.’ Ask God to give you opportunities to display God’s love to others.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA ‘Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others.’ 1 Peter 4:10a Reflect on this verse and on the gifts that God has given you. How can you use them to serve others?

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LIGHT IN MUMBAI: 19 – 25 APRIL A group of Northern Irish church leaders and rugby player Paddy McAllister reflect on their visit to Mumbai’s red-light district where they met Tearfund partners bringing light into the darkness...

SUNDAY 19 APRIL ‘I use my power and strength to win rugby games, but men here use their strength and power to abuse women,’ says Paddy McAllister, after meeting Asha – a woman sold into sex slavery at the age of 13. Ask God to change the hearts of people who use strength and power to exploit women. MONDAY 20 APRIL Rev Mairisine Stanfield, from First Bangor Presbyterian Church, met women being cared for by Tearfund partner Oasis India, who had previously been sold into slavery. While they had experienced much suffering, their lives had also been transformed. Join in praise with Mairisine who says, ‘Truly Jesus’ power has turned their mourning into dancing!’

TUESDAY 21 APRIL Andy McCourt, Senior Pastor of Christian Fellowship Church in Strandtown, Belfast, says, ‘As many as 20,000 sex workers are forced to ply their trade in the Mumbai district of Kamathipura. I was shocked by the deprivation we saw.’ Pray that Tearfund’s partners will have the resources to reach even more exploited women. WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL ‘Trafficking preys on weakness and creates weakness for its own purposes,’ says Bishop Harold Miller, who was shocked when he met a boy who had been injected with polio so he would ‘beg more effectively’. Pray that God will bring physical and psychological healing to women who have suffered because of sex trafficking.

THURSDAY 23 APRIL ‘Trafficked children have been robbed of the freedom to make the most basic decisions about their lives,’ says Anita Harron, a volunteer speaker for Tearfund. Thank God for the freedoms you have, and ask him to show you how you can use them to bless others. FRIDAY 24 APRIL ‘It would be so easy to feel paralysed and walk away,’ says Rev Charles McMullan, from West Church Presbyterian, Bangor. ‘But the New Testament is full of examples of Christians rolling up their sleeves and helping those nobody else will touch.’ Pray for strength and perseverance for Tearfund’s partner staff who are determined to stay. SATURDAY 25 APRIL ‘The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them.’ Psalm 34:17 Father, it grieves us to read stories of people who have been cruelly exploited. Thank you for Christians who show love in practical ways to people who have suffered. Amen.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA

‘TRAFFICKED CHILDREN HAVE BEEN ROBBED OF THE FREEDOM TO MAKE THE MOST BASIC DECISIONS ABOUT THEIR LIVES’ About 20,000 women are forced into sex work in Mumbai Photo: Mark Lang/Tearfund

Read Psalm 22, a lament expressing deep despair to God. Note that this passage, like most psalms of lament, ends in praise. We can always have hope, because God responds to prayer. Pray through this psalm on behalf of the many people caught in modern-day slavery. Then write your own psalm of lament to express how you feel about the injustice of child trafficking.

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SUPPORT FROM SCOTLAND: 26 APRIL – 2 MAY Scottish runners who took part in the 2014 Glasgow 10k run Photo: Lesley de Blieck/Tearfund

SUNDAY 26 APRIL Many people across Scotland give their time and talents to raise money for people in poverty. Please join the Tearfund Scotland team in thanking God for them and ask him to inspire others with creative ideas to help support our work.

This week, we want to pray and give God thanks for our amazing Scottish fundraisers. They will be running, baking and cycling over the next few weeks to help raise money and bring hope and transformation to some of the poorest communities across the world.

‘WHEN YOU KNOW THERE’S A BIG TEAM RUNNING FOR THE SAME CAUSE AS YOU, IT’S REALLY ENCOURAGING’ MONDAY 27 APRIL Tearfund supporter Rebecca Campbell from Glasgow recently held an afternoon Tea for Tearfund at her home to raise money for Tearfund. She was joined by about 20 friends and everyone enjoyed the cakes and fellowship. Thank God for the way he uses people’s hospitality to transform communities overseas.

WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL Two of our younger supporters recently visited the Scotland office with a full money-box for Tearfund. Using Tearfund’s Whole Wide World devotional pack as a family, they had talked about issues of poverty and saved money. Praise God for children who, like them, have caught God’s heart for poor people.

TUESDAY 28 APRIL Last year, more than 50 women walked, jogged or ran the Glasgow 10k for Tearfund. Poppy Wilde from Paisley says, ‘When you know there’s a big team of people all running for the same cause as you, it’s really encouraging.’ With less than a month to go, please pray for all the women taking part this year, as they train and prepare for the race.

THURSDAY 30 APRIL In a few weeks’ time, 12 supporters will be cycling more than 500 miles in a week, taking part in the 2015 Tearfund Cycling Scottish Tour, an initiative led by Tearfund volunteer Dave Moss. Please pray for safety, health and fun for all those taking part.

FRIDAY 1 MAY Pray for all those taking part in Live Below the Line, spending just £1 a day on food, for five days, to gain a greater understanding of what it’s like to live below the poverty line. Praise God for our partners around the world who tackle hunger. SATURDAY 2 MAY Today, a wonderful team of volunteers from Dumfries are hosting their tenth Drumlanrig Cycle Challenge for Tearfund. More than 300 cyclists will take part, completing either 60- or 100-mile journeys through beautiful Scottish scenery. Pray for safety on the roads, energy for the volunteers, and the opportunity to show Jesus’ love to those taking part

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – WHAT YOU CAN DO Whatever your skills and talents, you can support local churches worldwide as they bring Godgiven transformation where it is needed most. Whether you can bake, organise events or take part in sporting activities, we would love you to get involved. If you are interested, contact Tearfund’s Scotland team at scotland@tearfund.org or 0141 332 3621 and ask for a fundraising pack.

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THOSE IN AUTHORITY: 3 – 9 MAY The general election is here: an important time for the future of our nation. Let’s come together in prayer for our leaders and our country, asking for God’s will to be done.

Thursday 7 May is the day the UK goes to the polls Photo: Margaret Chandler/Tearfund

SUNDAY 3 MAY ‘I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness’ 1 Timothy 2:1–2 Ask God to be with us as we pray and vote this coming week and pray for wisdom and insight to know how to intercede for people in authority.

TUESDAY 5 MAY Fewer than half the world’s countries are democracies. Give thanks for the freedoms and rights we enjoy in the UK, including our right to vote. Lift up those living in countries where political, religious and other liberties are limited or withheld, and pray for a breakthrough of God’s freedom in those places.

‘I URGE THAT PETITIONS, PRAYERS, INTERCESSION AND THANKSGIVING BE MADE... FOR ALL THOSE IN AUTHORITY’ 1 Timothy 2:1-2 MONDAY 4 MAY It can be easy to forget that poverty and social injustice are not just international issues, and to remember that there are struggling and marginalised people in every community – even in the relatively affluent UK. Pray that the voices of the marginalised will be heard in this election and that their interests will be upheld by whoever is elected.

WEDNESDAY 6 MAY Pray for MPs and candidates up and down the country as they prepare for election day tomorrow. Pray they’ll know peace, and that there will be good will between candidates and supporters from different parties. THURSDAY 7 MAY Pray that today’s voting will go smoothly and peacefully. Pray that the turnout will be good, with people seizing this opportunity to elect our government, and that votes will be prayerfully considered.

FRIDAY 8 MAY Pray for the new government as it forms. Pray for strong and honest working relationships, and for people to be given roles in which their skills and gifts can be best used. Pray that the new government will grow into an amazing force for hope, well-being and transformation in this country and around the world. SATURDAY 9 MAY Lord of all, thank you for the freedom we have to vote for our leaders. We pray that the members of our new government will uphold biblical principles of peace and justice. Give them the strength and conviction to ‘loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free…’ (Isaiah 58:6). We pray these things in the name of your Son, Jesus. Amen.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA Buy a newspaper: whichever one you buy, it will probably contain a feature on the new government. Take a highlighter pen and mark the names of some of the politicians mentioned, and then spend some time in prayer for them.

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GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD: 10 – 16 MAY At Tearfund, we are reflecting on how we can live so that everyone can flourish and God’s creation is protected, amid problems such as over-consumption and inequality. Please join us this week as we grapple with these issues in prayer.

Richard McArthur from Balerno ate rice and beans for five days to raise money for Tearfund Photo:Richard McArthur

SUNDAY 10 MAY ‘The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it’ Psalm 24:1 Give thanks for God’s amazing creation. Take time to cherish the beauty of God’s wonderful earth and be reminded how awesome he is. Visit a local beauty spot if you can, and pray as you look out on creation.

TUESDAY 12 MAY In December there will be a significant climate summit in Paris. Pray for the delegates and decisionmakers, that they will remember the fact that we need urgent action on the changing climate, for the sake of the most vulnerable people living in extreme poverty.

‘FATHER GOD, WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR WORLD. WE ARE SORRY THAT WE SO OFTEN DO NOT TREAT IT AS YOU WOULD WISH US TO’ MONDAY 11 MAY People around the world have been praying and fasting each month for the climate as an act of solidarity. (Visit prayandfastfortheclimate.org.uk for details.) Pray that people will take on a deeper responsibility for stewarding creation, and ask God to speak to you about what you can do.

WEDNESDAY 13 MAY What is it that you love? The For the love of campaign highlights the fact that many of the things we love are under threat from the impact of the changing climate. (Visit fortheloveof.org.uk for details.) Pray that this initiative has real and lasting impact on the world that God loves.

THURSDAY 14 MAY Last week, the UK went to the polls in the general election. Pray that the new government will work to remember the poor (Galatians 2:10) and remain focused on issues of global as well as domestic poverty. Pray that the environment will be high on the political agenda. FRIDAY 15 MAY With power also comes responsibility. Pray for the newly elected MP in the constituency where you live as they represent you and your community in parliament. Pray that they will stand up for justice and will listen to and act on their constituents’ concerns. SATURDAY 16 MAY Father God, we thank you for your world. We are sorry that so often we do not treat it as you would wish us to. In your grace and mercy, please forgive us and help us to take steps to play a part in renewing your world by how we live. Amen.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA God cares passionately for the oppressed, widows and orphans and he wants good things for them. Reflect on God’s compassion in Psalm 146. Two years on, pray for the survivors of Rana Plaza, the building that collapsed in Bangladesh in 2013, who are still finding life a challenge.

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SUNDAY 17 MAY Aintree Mission Community Church held a summer fair and bake sale to raise funds for Tearfund’s No Child Taken anti-child trafficking campaign. Five ladies worked hard to make the event happen and it was a great success, raising £840. A wonderful time was had by all, praise God!

CHEERFUL GIVERS: 17 – 2 3 MAY

MONDAY 18 MAY Lynda Pembleton, a Tearfund supporter since the 1970s, asked for donations to Tearfund and A Rocha UK for her birthday. ‘I don’t need more stuff at 80 years old,’ she says. Praise God that, as a result, we received a gift of £245, which will help bring hope to many people.

THURSDAY 21 MAY Norman Beech and his son, James, undertook a unique challenge to raise funds for No Child Taken. They were the first ever to enter a tandem in the five-day Ride Around Ireland. Thank God for supporters who push themselves to the limit for people in poverty.

TUESDAY 19 MAY Two sisters and their cousin from Mold, North Wales, chose to raise money for No Child Taken by collecting, decorating and then selling pebbles. Pray that God will release creativity in more young people to volunteer and raise support for Tearfund.

‘I DON’T NEED MORE STUFF AT 80 YEARS OLD’

WEDNESDAY 20 MAY Over the summer, Kevin McCann walked from John O’Groats to Land’s End to raise money for Tearfund water projects. Praise God that he raised £1,690. Pray for strength and perseverance for all our supporters who undertake physical challenges.

Every day at Tearfund, we hear amazing stories of how you, our supporters, give time, energy and finances to help release the most vulnerable people on earth from poverty. Here’s a small sample of the creative and brilliant ways you’re making a difference for those in need...

FRIDAY 22 MAY Back in June 2014, we heard of a young girl who wanted to celebrate her seventh birthday by raising money to help Syrian refugees. She decorated a tissue box and invited friends and family to put donations inside. Pray that the £175 she raised will be effective in helping families devastated by the conflict.

Supporters visiting Tearfund’s offices in Teddington to learn more about our work Photo: Michael Owen/Tearfund

SATURDAY 23 MAY Father God, we thank you for all those attending the Big Church Day Out Christian music festival today. We pray that many of them will hear about Tearfund’s No Child Taken anti-child trafficking campaign and respond in prayer, action and offering support. Amen.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – WHAT YOU CAN DO There are many ways you can help us follow Jesus where the need is greatest. If you’ve been inspired by the stories this week, contact our enquiries team at enquiries@tearfund. org or call us on 0208 977 9144 to find out how you can get more involved.

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AROMA OF PEACE: 24 – 30 MAY For 50 years, Colombia was gripped by violent conflict between the government, paramilitaries and guerrilla groups, which left and estimated 220,000 people dead. However, a peace process which began in 2012 has ignited the hope of a more stable future…

SUNDAY 24 MAY Over the years, conflict has forced 5.7 million people to flee their homes. Tearfund’s Country Representative for Colombia, Rosa Camargo de Bravo, was herself displaced. ‘Pray for the process of peace and reconciliation after so many years of war,’ she says. MONDAY 25 MAY Tearfund supported Peniel Church in north-west Colombia to care for 300 displaced families. Now the community as a whole provide shelter for newly displaced people, continuing that work. ‘When we arrived here, the church helped us, so now it’s our turn,’ they said. Let’s praise God for the generosity of churches and host communities.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – WHAT YOU CAN DO More than 60 per cent of the world’s coffee comes from just four countries, one of which is Colombia. Sadly, many coffee growers aren’t paid a fair wage and struggle to make ends meet. When you visit the supermarket, why not buy some fairly traded Colombian coffee, which guarantees the farmers a fair and stable price?

Photo: Jim Loring/Tearfund

TUESDAY 26 MAY Four members of Constanza Turbay’s family were killed by guerrillas from the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia (FARC). In a poignant moment during last year’s peace talks, Constanza met FARC’s chief negotiator, who asked her forgiveness. She says, ‘If we who have been directly affected by violence can take this step, why can’t the rest of the country?’ Pray for forgiveness and healing to flow. WEDNESDAY 27 MAY During the civil war, violence against women escalated. Shirley was abused at the age of eight and grew up angry and embittered, taking out her pain on her son. Let’s thank God that, after attending a church supported by Tearfund’s partner, she now says, ‘Step by step, the Holy Spirit removed the anger from my heart, and I am free to love and care for my son.’

THURSDAY 28 MAY Growing up surrounded by violence made 12-year-old Mario yearn to join an armed gang. Tearfund’s partner, Red Viva Colombia, runs a football project helping young people like Mario to stay out of gangs and find love, acceptance and faith in Jesus. Praise God for this life-changing venture. FRIDAY 29 MAY A different kind of struggle faces people of indigenous and African descent in Colombia. ‘The indigenous population is at the bottom of the social scale, without real opportunities for education, healthcare and career development,’ says Country Representative Rosa. Pray for a more equal, just and inclusive society. SATURDAY 30 MAY Colombia also faces insecurity in the natural world, and was hit by a catastrophic drought in 2013. Thank God that Tearfund was able to provide eight badly affected indigenous villages with emergency food, water and medical care. Ask God to grant resilience to the people of Colombia when they face future natural disasters.

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PRAYER RESOURCES Here are more resources and opportunities to pray with Tearfund for people in poverty. URGENT PRAYERS BY EMAIL Tearfund’s weekly prayer email, One Voice, features prayer updates from around the world. Delivered every Friday, the email has downloadable content giving you the flexibility to use it at your Sunday service, small group meeting or on your own. Sign up at tearfund.org/prayeremail JOIN A LOCAL PRAYER GROUP If you would like to meet with others to pray for issues that affect poor communities around the world, then join a local prayer group. Call 0208 8977 9144 or email enquiries@tearfund.org and find out if there’s a group near you – or consider starting one.

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To receive regular prayer updates to your smartphone, tablet or computer, you can follow Tearfund on Twitter. (You will need to have or set up a Twitter account at www.twitter.com) Visit twitter.com/tearfund KEEP IN TOUCH Please let us know if you’ve used the ‘Welcome to the weekend’ ideas as an individual, as a church or in your small group. Please also let us know how you personally use the Prayer Diary to pray for people in poverty: contact us at praying@tearfund.org

ORD ER EXTRA COPIES OR AUDIO AND BRAILLE VERSIONS OF TEAR TIMES AND THE PRAYER DIARY Audio and Braille versions of the Prayer Diary are available, free of charge, upon request. You can also order more copies of the Prayer Diary for your church or group and sign up to receive extra copies regularly. Please call Tearfund on 0208 8977 9144. One year on from the typhoon, life is returning to normal in the Philippines Photo: Tom Price/Integral Alliance

‘YOU MUST GO FORWARD ON YOUR KNEES’ J HUDSON TAYLOR (1832–1905), BRITISH CHRISTIAN MISSIONARY

‘Father of all mercies, we pray for the families who have fled their homes in fear. We lift up the mothers and fathers who have escaped with only their children, leaving everything else behind. We pray that timely help and support will reach all who are in need. Amen.’

A PRAYER FOR PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST, WRITTEN BY A TEARFUND STAFF MEMBER IN JORDAN Photo: Tearfund

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