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.

• Agreement with the Government – every five years agreements must be made detailing the activities of UMN. All three of these are to be finalized in the coming months. The General Agreement and the Hospitals Agreement should have been finished, but due to the disruption of the pandemic, have been extended for a further six months. The Project Agreement needs to be significantly adjusted to reflect the changes in emphasis in projects as we respond to Covid-19. Pray for the work going on behind the scenes to redraft and finalize this work. UMN cannot continue without these agreements being signed off.
   
• Sunsari and Dhading clusters are finally closing in the coming days. This is a sad time and we are unable to properly acknowledge and celebrate the achievements over many years. Pray for all of the members of these teams as they seek new employment and direction. Ask God to guide and provide for their needs.
   
• Stigmatization and growing fear – as large numbers return across the border from India and try to find their way home they are discovering that after long and harrowing journeys they are not all receiving a warm welcome to their communities. There is the fear that they might be bringing Coronavirus. This is the latest of other forms of stigmatization – others from low castes, or with physical disability or mental illness have also experienced the fears of their communities. Pray that the message UMN tries to demonstrate of sacrificial service, loving your neighbour and caring for the poor will change hearts and minds.
   
• Please pray for 6 UMN clusters as they are preparing to support Rural Municipality level medical facilities/institutions with essential medical supplies during this week. This support will be of great significance as these institutions are running out of stock due to the influx of labor migrant from India, especially in the Karnali and Sudur Paschim provinces
   
• Quarantine centers set up to keep returnee migrants are reported to be very poorly supplied with food, water and bedding. Isolation is also very difficult in packed accommodation. It has also been reported that centers for women, girls and people with disabilities have no proper safety measures. These shortcomings have already put lives at greater risk. Please pray for the safety of these people as many of them have no choice but to stay there for 2 weeks before they can go to their homes.