Hurricane Melissa has now intensified to a Category 5 hurricane, with sustained winds of 160 mph, and is tracking slowly toward Jamaica’s southern coast with landfall expected on Tuesday morning.
Authorities in Jamaica - a link diocese of the Diocese of Oxford - have enacted emergency measures, including mandatory evacuations, the closure of schools, airports, and ports, and the opening of more than a thousand emergency shelters. Haiti, the Dominican Republic and Cuba are also bracing for severe rains and flooding.
Please pray urgently for:
Protection of life - especially the most vulnerable and those unable to evacuate.
Courage and stamina for rescue workers, emergency personnel, and church leaders offering shelter and care.
Peace for the fearful - that anxiety would be stilled and hope found in God’s steadfast presence.
The Diocese of Jamaica & the Cayman Islands - for Bishop, clergy, and laity as they shepherd communities in crisis.
Neighbouring Caribbean nations, already weary from previous storms, as they prepare for severe flooding.
Mercy on creation amid the intensifying impact of climate change on small island nations.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46.1)
Lord, in your mercy — hear our prayer.