Pray for Nepal
One year ago, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal on April 25, 2015, and dozens of aftershocks shook the nation in the following weeks, including a 7.3 magnitude quake on May 12. Entire villages were destroyed, and homes, businesses, schools and churches were reduced to nothing but piles of rubble. Nearly 9,000 people lost their lives. More than 22,000 people were injured, and hundreds of thousands of people were left homeless. In the midst of this devastation, our God knows the name of each person affected by these earthquakes, and He cares deeply for their needs.
Here are a few ways to pray for the rebuilding of Nepal:
- Strength, endurance and supplies for those rebuilding their homes.
- Comfort for those grieving lost loved ones and healing for hearts and homes.
- Wisdom and guidance for the government as they assess needs and allocate resources.
- Community centers such as hospitals, schools and churches to be rebuilt so people can be ministered to and children can have education.
- Protection from monsoon rains, landslides and disease, especially for those without access to proper sanitation or living in temporary shelter.
- Opportunity to earn a livelihood, especially for those who are injured or care for many dependents.
- God to enable GFA-supported workers to reach many villages with His help, love and the hope found in Christ.
Nepal has officially ushered in a new era for the nation after President Ram Baran Yadav signed the country’s new constitution on Sept. 20, 2015.
Citizens expressed mixed emotions after the historic event. Much of the country cheered, celebrating the nation’s attempt to move forward and bring peace after decades of instability, which included a 10-year civil war that dissolved the nation’s monarchy in 2008. Others continued to protest, unhappy with certain articles in the constitution that they believe put them at a disadvantage.
The new constitution officially divides the country into seven federal states, or provinces, and allows each state to have its own legislature. The borders of these states have yet to be determined. Many of Nepal’s ethnic minorities living in the southern regions have protested this division, fearing it will lead to further marginalization and little political representation.
The constitution also makes Nepal a secular nation after centuries of being a Hindu kingdom. The country’s secularism affords its citizens the right to freely practice, profess and preserve their religion according to their faith. However, the constitution also makes it illegal to perform any act that is seen as “disturb[ing] the religion of other people.”
The issue of citizenship has also sparked contention, especially among the women of Nepal. The constitution allows a father to pass on his Nepali citizenship to his children, but those born to Nepali women who are married to foreign citizens can attain citizenship only by naturalization.
Nepal’s current governing officials say amendments can be made to the constitution to address any discontentment. President Yadav has asked Prime Minister Sushil Koirala to open talks with the disgruntled parties in an effort to quell the unrest.
Please pray for:
- The government of Nepal as it works to implement the new constitution.
- Wisdom for Nepal’s leaders.
- Grace and peace for the people of Nepal.
- Discernment and wisdom for believers as they live out their faith in Jesus.
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