Pray with the global church

God of All Comfort, we lift before You the families of Ariko village in Southern Kaduna, grieving the loss of eight hostages. You are near to the brokenhearted and bind up their wounds; surround these families with Your presence and peace, sustaining them in this valley of shadows. We ask You to guard the remaining hostages and deliver them from the hands of those who hold them captive. Let Your light break through the darkness of the Rijana gulag, revealing Jesus to captors and captives alike. Strengthen the church in Kaduna with courage and hope, that they may stand firm in the face of oppression and bear witness to Your love and power. We entrust this community to Your care, knowing that Your mercy is from everlasting to everlasting. Amen.