Read the latest prayer requests from the worldwide Leprosy Mission family.
Peace and stability
Several of the countries where we work are affected by conflict, religious and political tensions. Please pray for all the dedicated Leprosy Mission staff around the world committed to delivering medical care and other services to people affected by leprosy, even when they risk personal injury or harm.
Give thanks for our project in Sri Lanka that means a focus on leprosy work has been a catalyst for interfaith peace and co-operation.
In 2017 the first ever Sri Lankan Interfaith Conference was held, which brought together 120 religious leaders from all major faiths. They agreed a common aim of ending leprosy and supporting communities affected by the disease. This was a major breakthrough not only for leprosy work, but also for peacebuilding. Since then, thousands of people of all faiths have been trained in leprosy awareness.
As well as promoting strong interfaith relationships, this has also led to the Government's Anti-Leprosy Campaign forming stronger partnerships with other charities and organisations. Give thanks that the Government is working to end leprosy is Sri Lanka.
Finally, please pray that the success of this project will encourage other countries to look at ways for faith groups to come together to combat leprosy.
Hidden People
A combination of fear and lack of knowledge about leprosy means that many people affected by the disease do not seek treatment. Because of this it is estimated that there are countless 'hidden' cases of leprosy, particularly in remote and rural regions.
This means there is a great need for outreach teams to visit these areas to identify new cases of leprosy and raise awareness about its symptoms and treatment.
Give thanks for the medical teams who are willing to travel to hard to reach places to carry out this vital work.
Pray for their protection and that they will be able to build trust, break down barriers of stigma and discrimination, and speak truth where ancient myths about leprosy are prevalent.
Justice and equality
Stigma and myths surrounding leprosy means that people affected by the disease are often marginalised in their communities and rejected by their families and friends. In some countries, there are still laws that discriminate against them and restrict their rights. For example, in India, there are still over 100 laws making discrimination against people affected by leprosy legal. The Leprosy Mission is working to see these repealed.
Give thanks for the progress made so far in achieving equality for people affected by leprosy. Please pray for the many Champions for Zero Leprosy in India, like Pastor Elisha, who received training in leprosy advocacy thanks to you. Pray that their work will make a huge difference to people in their communities and that others will be inspired by their example.
Please keep praying that as we work for justice for people affected by leprosy, they will feel valued and know their worth in society.
There has been a cure for leprosy since the 1980s and in the past 20 years, 16 million people have been cured of the disease.
Give thanks that multidrug therapy is provided free of charge and for the generous support of everyone who gives gifts to ensure that it reaches those in need.
It is estimated that there are still around 10 million people living with the effects of leprosy. Pray for their successful treatment through hospitals, outreach clinics and mobile clinics. Give thanks for all the volunteers and staff who work to deliver care. Pray for their safety and protection as they demonstrate the compassion and love of Jesus to all those they serve.