In our world, where many journey alone, nameless in the bustling crowd,
Satan and his evil forces seek whom they may scatter and isolate;
but God, by his gracious choosing in Christ, gathers a new community—
those who by God’s gift put their trust in Christ.
In the new community
all are welcome:
the homeless come home,
the broken find healing,
the sinner makes a new start,
the despised are esteemed,
the least are honored,
and the last are first.
Our World Belongs to God #34

Hantavirus Outbreak Linked to South American Cruise

A hantavirus outbreak on the cruise ship MV Hondius has resulted in three deaths and at least seven confirmed cases. The vessel, which began its journey on April 1 in Ushuaia, Argentina, was recently evacuated in Tenerife, Spain. While hantavirus is typically spread from rodents to humans, the World Health Organization (WHO) has identified the Andes strain in this outbreak, which is known for its rare ability to spread through sustained person-to-person contact.

In response, global health authorities have repatriated 122 passengers and crew. In Canada, six former passengers are currently in isolation, U.S. officials are monitoring 18 repatriated citizens.

God of Mercy and Healing, We lift up the families grieving the loss of loved ones and those fighting for their lives in hospitals. We pray for the passengers in isolation, asking for peace and patience during their long wait. Grant wisdom to the epidemiologists and health officials as they trace the origins of this virus and work to prevent its spread. May your comfort surround the anxious and your protection rest upon those on the front lines of care. 

Oil Prices Climb as Hopes for Iran Ceasefire Fade

Oil prices surged Monday after President Trump rejected Iran’s latest peace proposal and warned the ceasefire is hanging by a thread. With the Strait of Hormuz still largely blocked, fears are growing over worsening global supply shortages and rising fuel costs.

Brent crude jumped as markets reacted to the escalating tensions, with President Trump doubling down on his maximum pressure approach toward Iran. The administration says any agreement must fully protect American and allied interests.

With oil production strained and global markets on edge, attention now turns to President Trump’s upcoming meeting with China’s Xi Jinping later this week.

God of Wisdom and Sovereignty, we lift up world leaders as they navigate these escalating tensions. Grant them discernment to seek paths of stability and the courage to act with justice. We pray for all those affected by the rising costs of this conflict. 

Global Humanitarian Update: Haiti and Afghanistan

The United Nations is sounding the alarm on dual crises as 2026 brings a staggering surge in violence and hunger across the globe. In Haiti, sexual violence has reached horrific levels, with reports of gang rapes increasing by nearly 50% in the first quarter of the year, yet support services remain only 8% funded. Simultaneously, in Afghanistan, over 13 million people are facing acute food insecurity as rising regional tensions and border closures sever the lifeline of specialized nutrition for five million malnourished children and mothers. 

God our hearts are heavy as we look at a world that feels increasingly overwhelmed by crises on every side. From the violence in Haiti to the hunger in Afghanistan and the tensions in the Middle East, it feels like there is so much going on that we struggle to know where to turn. We ask for your peace to steady our hearts and your justice to move our hands. Grant wisdom to world leaders to prioritize human life over political gain, and sustain those on the front lines of relief. 

Becoming (part of) the Answer to our Own Prayers

Beyond the Headlines: Faith, Community and the Stories that Shape Us

Join a new justice education series from Thrive, World Renew, and the Christian Reformed Centre for Public Dialogue. This four-part series explores immigration, food justice, climate justice, and gender justice through a biblical lens—equipping participants to recognize harmful narratives, understand root causes, and take meaningful, faith-informed action. Learn more and register today!