10th August 2026

Hong Kong's weather observatory recorded a temperature of 37C on Sunday, the highest recorded since records began in 1884.  Across eastern China over a million people have been moved to safety as Typhoon Dolphin made landfall amid fears torrential rain would cause flooding and landslides. Shanghai recorded over 313mm (over 12 inches) of rain in the 24 hours to 7am on Monday, its highest 24-hour rainfall in more than 150 years of records. The typhoon has caused over 1,300 flights to be cancelled and disrupted public transport services, including many local trains. Typhoon Dolphin had previously swept through Japan’s southern Okinawa prefecture, injuring six people and ⁠cutting power to more than 50,000 buildings. 

Loving God, place into your care all living with extreme heat in Hong Kong and those in eastern China displaced from their homes and work as a consequence of extreme rainfall. We thank you that the Chinese authorities have taken steps to keep people safe. We thank you for those who are caring for, feeding, and sheltering displaced people.  We ask your compassion and care for vulnerable people, those who are frail with mobility challenges, young children, people with mental illness, and those in need of medication. We recognise the disruption to lives, hospital appointments postponed, education distrupted, and the impact on businesses, farms and growers. Wrap all into your loving care all impacted by this extreme weather and guide your church to be a place of practical and emotional support that through its actions of love and compassion people might be drawn closer to you. In Jesus' name we pray.  Amen.

Mexico and Peru severed diplomatic relationships in 2025 following a row over the granting of asylum to a former Peruvian prime minister who was charged for a 2022 coup attempt. However, in a joint statement at the end of last week the two countries that diplomatic relationships had been restored and that "historic ties of brotherhood, friendship and cooperation" prompted the reconciliation.  Both countries reaffirmed "their respect for international law and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations".  

Lord, who is like you?

You, Jesus, are the Saviour of the world.

I praise you for your wonderful, mighty love.

You are my tower, shelter and strength

My comfort in every time of trouble.

I praise you with all by heart, soul, mind and strength.

May all of creation shout your praises,

and sing of your power and majesty, almighty King.

I will love you for ever,

for because of your love for me,

and your sacrifice upon the cross,

I am able to receive your promised inheritance

and stand in your presence.

I praise you for your wonderful, mighty love.

Amen.