In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, UMN invites all people of prayer to set aside time daily to ask for God’s help in our work in Nepal. The time suggested for UMN staff is 3.00 pm. For our friends around the world, we ask that you join us either at the equivalent time in your country of 3 pm Nepal time, or whenever you are able. Many have found setting a daily alarm on their phone a useful reminder. 

Thank you for your fellowship in prayer.

• In the last two days fear has grown that another plague is about the beset Nepal. Large swarms of desert locusts have crossed the border from India into Western Nepal. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) say this threatens food security, the environment and economic development. This pest can reproduce rapidly, migrate long distances and devastate crops. A one square-kilometer size swarm contains about 40 million locusts, which eat the same amount of food in one day as about 35,000 people. In 1966 one swarm devastated 80% of crops in Chitwan. Please pray that people are spared from further loss and hunger.
   
• There have been media reports of a 77% increase of domestic violence during the lockdown period compared with the same period beforehand. In spite of the huge effort to save lives, this lockdown has put some vulnerable groups more at risk. They include children, elderly, teenage girls and women. For the victims of domestic violence, life at home is turning into a nightmare with no escape from their abuser. Please pray safety for those in danger, and a sense  of compassion and responsibility for the aggressor.
   
• The lockdown is being relaxed and people are beginning to move around more freely. However some are treating this as though it were normal times. Many people are not taking responsibility to observe social distancing rules. The sudden increase in the movement of people has increased the risk of infection particularly in the Kathmandu Valley.” Pray for a sense of community responsibility toward one another.
   
• We have been encouraged at signs of international donor support for the work of UMN. The hospital appeal has realised one third of what we believe will be needed by year end. There have also been positive indicators from other donors who seem willing to continue supporting Cluster Team projects. Yes there is still ongoing uncertainty and the need to make constant savings, but it does seem hopeful that most cluster projects will be possible. Please pray about all these matters, and for Cluster Team Leaders who must continue planning and preparing for eventual return their offices.
   
• Throughout almost 100 days of lockdown local Churches have felt a responsibility to reach out to others loving their neighbour as themselves. All kinds of short term efforts and acts of kindness have been carried out. In many places these efforts have been recognised and encouraged by local Government. Pray that the Church will continue in this way to act as salt and light in every community where they are found.