Pray for GFA's Leprosy Ministry

Those who have lost the use of their hands and feet have no way to provide for themselves, yet they are often abandoned by society. Other leprosy patients may have few physical limitations, but the stigma of the disease can hinder their likelihood of being hired. Many also have children to care for and may resort to begging to feed themselves and their children. One simple act of kindness—such as your kindness in taking the time to pray for these individuals—or a thoughtful word can make all the difference and give them fresh courage to continue their battle to survive.

Ask God to meet the needs of those impacted by leprosy and to guide GFA missionaries, staff and partners as they perform acts of kindness toward these precious friends in need.

Every year, approximately 200,000 new cases of leprosy are detected in 120 countries, including countries where GFA serves. Praise God for the work He is already doing in the dozens of communities of leprosy patients where GFA missionaries minister! In addition, GFA has recently identified 150 leprosy colonies with thousands of residents in need to which we plan to expand ministry in the near future.

Please pray for the residents in these communities where ministry will be starting, that their needs will be met and their hearts will be transformed as they experience Christ’s love, some for the first time. Pray that our leprosy ministry will continue to expand and God will raise up more workers to serve in this way.

National missionaries who minister among leprosy patients demonstrate Jesus’ love in many ways. In addition to cleaning and dressing wounds, these workers help those with disabilities by cooking meals, cleaning homes, assisting with bathing and through other practical acts of service. They also offer friendship, comfort and love to those so many others have cast aside.

Please pray these workers will have the physical endurance and emotional stability to continue offering strength and hope to people such as leprosy patients who are living in heartbreaking situations. Please pray for the Sisters of Compassion teams who will be establishing leprosy ministry in new communities that God will go before them, give them favor and prepare hearts to receive His love.

Understanding leprosy is key to relieving the plight of leprosy patients and eliminating the disease. Fear of catching leprosy often results in the ostracism of those diagnosed with leprosy, though it is not easily contracted. Because of the severity of this shunning, many people who worry they may have leprosy hide their condition, not knowing that if the disease is caught and treated early, it is curable.

Pray communities where leprosy is prevalent gain a greater awareness and understanding of this disease and the available treatment. Please also pray for a shift in mindset among communities and for increased compassion toward those diagnosed with leprosy.