Sunday 22 February

The 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) starts this week, running from 23 February-2 April. Give thanks that there will be a dedicated discussion on freedom of religion or belief, and ask God to bless our UN team with energy and perseverance. They work tremendously hard and we’re so grateful for all that they do!

Monday 23 February

Father God, thank you that the whole world is in your hands. As the UN meets this week to discuss a range of human rights issues, we pray that the voices and needs of those who are most vulnerable will be at the heart of every discussion and decision made. Amen.

Tuesday 24 February

During the HRC, we will be speaking out about ongoing violations of freedom of religion or belief in Myanmar/Burma. Pray for CSW’s advocates as they raise concerns, including the military’s continued targeting of ethnic and religious minorities.

Wednesday 25 February

Building good relationships with UN staff, Special Procedures (UN independent experts), and country representatives is essential for our work with the UN. Pray that these connections will continue to grow and be strengthened.

Thursday 26 February

At this session of the HRC, the Special Rapporteur will present her latest report on freedom of religion or belief, death and honouring the deceased. In many countries, minority religious or belief communities are denied burial rights or have funeral services disrupted. Pray that this new report will be a catalyst for legislative and social change.

Friday 27 February

The UN held an emergency ‘Special Session’ of the HRC in October, following credible reports of atrocity crimes being committed in El Fasher, Sudan. The UN’s Fact-Finding Mission on Sudan was mandated to investigate, and is due to report back to the HRC this session. Pray that this report will not collect dust on a shelf, but will be used to bring perpetrators to justice.

Lent prayer

Saturday 28 February

Pilate’s failure to release an innocent man (Mark 15:13-15)

As we remember this part of Jesus’ journey to the cross, we reflect on the imperfect and unjust leaders of this world. Lord, we pray that you will raise up leaders with integrity – at local, national and international levels – who will listen to evidence and use their power for good. We pray for unjust verdicts to be overturned, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

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