Pray with Egypt, January 4, 2026
Lectionary Selection: John 1: (1-9), 10-18
Prayers for Egypt
In the Name of the Holy Trinity
Our Lord, our God, and our Savior Jesus Christ, we lift our hearts to You with overflowing gratitude for all Your countless blessings and for Your abundant love that You have granted us even before our creation, and for Your image which You placed within us (Genesis 1:26–27).
We ask You, O gracious God, to complete Your work in us and with us, so that we may truly become Your sons and daughters—Your ambassadors and fellow workers (1 Corinthians 3:9)—being made one body in You (1 Corinthians 12:12).
We pray for the whole world and for its peace: that destruction and war may cease everywhere, and that Your peace may fill the earth, so we may glorify You who look down from the heights of heaven. We also pray for Egypt, which You have blessed with Your presence, that You may fulfill Your good will for Egypt’s prosperity and growth, and make Egypt a source of blessing to the whole world, as it was in the days of Joseph (Genesis 41). We pray for our neighbors, our region, asking that Your peace may dwell among them.
We pray for the Bishopric of Public, Ecumenical and Social Services (BLESS), and its ministry extended throughout Egypt: that all its work may be according to Your will, and that all those who serve within it may be perfect in You (Colossians 1:28). So, that this ministry may be a source of blessing and growth for them in every aspect of their lives—bearing fruit that pleases You, thirty, sixty, and a hundredfold (Matthew 13:23).
We remember, too, those who support this ministry with their time, effort, or resources. Bless the little they have, and reward them with a heavenly recompense.
To You be all glory forever. Amen.
Written by Fr-Lazarus, Program Development Advisor at BLESS
Mission Moment from Egypt
Mission Moment from Egypt:
Before 2020, El Zoer village in Minya faced limited services and environmental challenges. Many families relied on small agricultural plots, healthcare was hard to access, and waste accumulated in the streets and canal banks.
BLESS began working hand-in-hand with the community, focusing not only on urgent needs but on building long-term resilience. Farmers were supported to improve their harvests and protect their livestock. Community volunteers were trained, and a waste management committee was formed — together removing 148 tons of trash and ensuring cleaner streets and healthier surroundings.
Families gained access to clean drinking water, homes were rehabilitated, and basic household furniture was provided to those most in need. Children received academic support to thrive in school, and adults attended literacy classes, opening new opportunities for growth and empowerment.
Mobile clinics reached families with essential medical services, while health campaigns educated mothers and youth on nutrition, screening, and prevention. Most importantly, community members became active leaders — advocating for change, partnering with local authorities, and sustaining improvements long after program activities began.
El Zoer today stands as a model of community-led development, where empowered residents continue to build a healthier, cleaner, and more hopeful future.
Written by Nardeen Raouf, Partnerships and Resource Mobilization specialist at BLESS
Mission Partners in Egypt
- Bishopric for Public, Ecumenical, and Social Services
- Coptic Evangelical Organization for Social Services
- Union of Armenian Evangelical Churches in the Near East
Make a gift to support the work of the Bishopric for Public, Ecumenical, Social Services (BLESS)