31st August 2026

A privately owned passenger ferry left the popular holiday resort of Kyrenia in Cyrus at lunch time yesterday with 267 people on board. The ferry subsequently capsized taking the lives of 18 people with a further 18 still missing. Helicopters and coastguard boats were dispatched to the scene, while ambulances were stationed on the beach ready to receive rescued passengers. Filo Denizcilik, the company which operates the capsized passenger boat, said it was "deeply saddened by the tragic accident".  A phoneline has been established to provide passengers' relatives with information. 

Loving God, who calmed a storm, we ask your care for all caught up in this incident. May all who are bereived and griving be comforted.  May a full investigation be able to explain to them how their loved ones perished. We thank you for the safety and rescue of all who have survived.  Be with them in their trauma, and be alongside them in the love and compassion shown to them.  We thank you for all who risk their own lives on the sea to rescue others, may all be accounted for.  We ask your protection for all who travel. Guide the authorities in thier work that it may be carried out professionally, cometently and extensively that all lessons will be learned.  We ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Whilst global hunger remains significant, the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) says the number of people facing hunger globally has declined for the third consecutive year from 8.6% in 2022 to 7.8% in 2025. It further estimates that in 2025, hunger affected 14 million people fewer than in 2024 and 43 million fewer people than in 2022. Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, are regions where there has been a steady improvements in recent years. FAO Director-General, QU Dongyu: “The report shows that progress is possible, but we must move faster. Ending hunger and making healthy diets affordable requires political commitment, sustained investment and enabling policies."

Prayer based on Psalm 30

Lord my God, I will exalt you,

for you lifted me out of the depths

I called to you for help, and you healed me.

You have turned my sorrow into joyful dancing.

I am no longer sad and no longer wear sackcloth.

I thank you from my heart.

I will never stop singing your praises,

my Lord and my God.  Amen.