12th October 2026

A boat carrying hundreds of people has capsized off the coast of Djibouti in east Africa near the port town of Obock on Thursday night. At least 139 migrants including 15 children have died. Around 82 people were rescued, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said. Living in many places on the Horn of Africa is life threatening. Despite the on-going conflict in Yemen that has lasted more than a decade, migrants still cross the Bab el-Mandeb Strait to Yemen driven by poverty, insecurity and the growing impacts of climate change. Tens of thousands make the perilous journey each year hoping to reach Gulf countries for safety and work, the IOM says. Conversely, thousands of Yemenis have fled to Djibouti to escape the civil war between Houthi fighters and the Saudi-backed Yemeni government. 

Loving God, our hearts go our to our neighbours in Djibouti who mourn the deaths of those they loved. We pray for the safe-keeping and healing of all who have been rescued from the water and give thanks for all who have risk their own lives to bring others to safety. Forgive us that we create situations where people prefer to take their chances crossing the ocean rather than to remain at home. Also, forgive us that we have made the region so unsafe that it is challenging for people to find a place of safety and security, welcome and acceptance. Help us all to be empathetic to those who decide their lives are not safe and seek new beginings in far-off lands. Help us grasp the emormity of those decisions and to address all that creates instability and fear. In the name of Jesus Christ the Lord we pray, Amen.

Anna’s Hope charity was launched in 2006 by Carole and Rob Hughes (from Peterborough, UK), who sadly lost their daughter Anna to a brain tumour at the age of three. Over the past two decades, Anna’s Hope has made a huge contribution to children diagnosed with brain tumours, alongside support for their families. Anna’s Hope celebrated its 20th anniversary this year with its annual 5k fun run yesterday. More than 300 runners taking part in both the 5k fun run and Great Eastern Run supported Anna’s Hope, with many wearing fairy wings in support of the charity. The event raised thousands of £ to fund vital support for children living with brain tumours. 

Find out more about Anna's Hope here.

King of kings and Lord of lords

You are a faithful God, forgiving, patient and loving,

even when we fail you,

or sin against you, or wander far from you.

Like a loving Father you

welcoming us home to you,

with arms outstretched.

All praise and glory be to you.

We offer you our service

in whatever way you may have for us

and wherever you might need us. Amen