Prayer does not mean much when we undertake it as only an attempt to influence God, or as a search for a spiritual fallout shelter, or as an offering of comfort in stress-filled times.  Prayer is the act by which we divest ourselves of all false belongings and become free to belong to God and God alone. - Henri Nouwen 

Mourning, Healing, and Gun Violence Prevention After the Tumbler Ridge Mass Shooting

This week, Canadians continue to mourn and seek justice after a deadly mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, on February 10. An 18-year-old opened fire first at a home and then at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, killing at least nine people, including students and an educator, and injuring dozens more. The tragedy is among the deadliest in recent Canadian history, renewing conversations about mental health support, community safety, and gun violence prevention.

God, we pray for comfort for those who mourn the image bearers whose lives were cut short by senseless violence. May they feel your presence through your people long after the news cycle moves past their pain, and sustain their strength in the midst of unimaginable grief. Give us the courage to translate our prayers into action so that places of learning can be havens of safety instead of targets of violence. 

Justice and Due Process for Immigrants

Across the U.S., federal courts and immigrant rights advocates are contending with a historic surge of habeas corpus cases as thousands of immigrants challenge detention policies that deny basic legal protections and bond hearings. Many courts are strained and some detainees remain held long after judges find their detentions unlawful, raising urgent questions about fair process and the dignity of every human being.

Lord, we know that you are not a God of chaos. We ask that you be with those who are seeking justice in what is currently a disorganized and overwhelmed system. Please grant stamina and protection to those whose rights have been denied or delayed, and perseverance to those within the legal system who are committed to enacting due process and treating every image bearer with dignity and respect.

Deepening Global Hunger Crisis and Barriers to Humanitarian Aid 

Across several conflict-affected regions, humanitarian agencies warn that worsening violence, economic instability, and limits on aid access are pushing millions closer to famine. Families already displaced are facing severe food shortages, while relief organizations struggle to safely deliver supplies. Churches and partners around the world are calling for protection of civilians and sustained commitments to life-saving assistance.

Heavenly Father, you have promised to uphold the cause of the oppressed and give food to the hungry. We pray that you will make a way where there is no way for food to be delivered to those who need it most in areas of your world where there is conflict and instability. Soften the hearts of leaders to allow aid to be safely distributed so that unnecessary suffering does not persist. 

Escalating Repression, Protest Crackdowns, and Human Rights Violations in Iran

Over the past few weeks, Iranian authorities have intensified violent repression against nationwide protests that began in late December 2025, with credible reports indicating thousands of people killed by security forces and many more arbitrarily detained. Human rights organizations report that lethal force has been used against demonstrators and families commemorating loved ones, while activists and Kurdish residents have been arrested under broad security charges. The situation remains deeply concerning as civilian suffering grows even as state forces try to suppress international reporting on abuses.

You are the God who hears. We pray that you will hear the cries of the Iranian people as they fight for their voices to be acknowledged and respected. We pray for protection from violence, freedom from oppression, and relief from targeted attacks. Be with those in global positions of power who are engaging in negotiations, that they may reach an outcome of peace and safety.

Becoming (part of) the Answer to our Own Prayers

U.S Religious Worker Visa Update

Recent changes to the Religious Worker Visa Program have required many foreign-born religious workers to leave the United States after five years, causing significant disruption to congregations, spiritual care, and vital ministries that serve local communities. Many faith communities, including the Christian Reformed Church, rely deeply on the dedication and service of religious workers from around the world.

Over the past year, the CRC has joined with many denominations in the ecumenical community to advocate for a more just and compassionate policy. We are encouraged to share that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recently issued an interim final rule in response that addresses some aspects of this challenge. While we welcome this step forward, we also recognize that it offers only a partial remedy.

Alongside the broader faith community, we remain committed to advocating for a permanent, legislative solution that provides a more comprehensive and lasting fix. We encourage you to reach out to your Members of Congress to support the bipartisan Religious Workforce Protection Act, and to continue praying for wisdom, compassion, and meaningful structural change in this important area.

Standing with Our Immigrant Neighbors in a Time of Crisis

The Christian Reformed Church in North America is a member of the National Association of Evangelicals, a group that represents 40 denominations and thousands of churches, schools and nonprofit organizations who understand that together we can do so much more than on our own!

Read their statement on refugees and immigrants in the United States, and take action by using their link to contact government officials with a message to provide pathways for persecuted Christians and refugees. Thrive continues to provide immigration support and guidance to churches and ministry leaders. Reach out to at [email protected] if you require support and guidance.