4th March 2026

On Sunday, at least 178 people were killed in the north of South Sudan. 90 children, women and elderly people are understood to be among the dead. Independent observers have warned that escalating conflict between the government-aligned army and opposition forces and allied groups risks returning South Sudan to a full-blown civil war. The UN mission in South Sudan said it was sheltering more than 1,000 civilians in its base in the area and providing medical care to those injured. On Monday, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said 26 of its staff were unaccounted for after recent violence in parts of Jonglei state, which has witnessed intense fighting between government and opposition forces since December. It's health facilities have been hot by airstrikes and looted by armed militia. 

Loving God, we pray to you for all people affected by the conflict in South Sudan.  Bring your comfort and loving care to all who mourn and your healing touch to all who are injured. Console with your presence all who are fearful, exhausted, and grieving.  Be alongside those who have been displaced from their homes .  We ask your protection for those escaping war in Sudan who have crossed into South Sudan only to experience more violence. You challenge us to love our neighbour, to do good, and to seek justice. By the power of your Holy Spirit guide and strengthen all who have the power and resources to act for peace and turn their attention to this crisis.  Replace violence with understanding, and fear with safety. Let Your peace settle where conflict has long lived. in the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace we pray.  Amen. 

UNICEF and the Government of Haiti have formed a partnership to strengthen prevention and response to child recruitment by armed groups, and help victims rebuild their lives. The initiative is known as the Prevention and Rehabilitation Program Against Children and Youth Recruitment (PREJEUNES).  It aims to protect children from recruitment, exploitation and violence, while also offering them sustainable reintegration solutions and comprehensive support. Since 2024 has provided specialized protection and reintegration support to more than 570 children formerly associated with armed groups. Gianluca Flamigni, Chief of the Health and Nutrition at UNICEF Haiti, called PREJEUNES "a powerful signal, an act of hope and a collective promise to never again look away from the suffering of children and young people trapped in violence.” 

Almighty God, You are author of life.

When I lift my eyes to you I am filled with adoration

and want to sing of your glory.

All your works praise you, Lord;

they tell of the glory of your kingdom

You alone do things human beings,

with all our learning,

cannot comprehend.

Praise to Your glorious name forever!

I thank you for Jesus. 

I thank you for his love.

I thank you for his work upon the cross,

and for his glorious resurrection,

and for his promise of eternal life.

I thank you that you love me.

I lift my eyes to you and I am filled with adoration.

Amen.