27th February 2026

Afghan forces attacked Pakistani border troops on Thursday night in what the Taliban government said was retaliation for earlier deadly airstrikes. Pakistan then bombed Afghanistan’s capital of Kabul and two other provinces early this morning. The two countries had reached a Qatar mediated ceasefire agreement in October but more recently cross border attacks have resumed. According to UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, the UN secretary-general, António Guterres, urged both sides to protect civilians as required under international law and “to continue to seek to resolve any differences through diplomacy.” 

Loving God we pray for peace between these neighbours. Move among their leaders so that they seek reconciliation and a lasting solution to their differences. May disagreements not result in death and destruction but conversations that share concerns and find ways in which people can live together in peace. We ask your protection for all who are in danger, your healing for all who are injured and your loving care for all who mourn. In Jesus' name we pray.  Amen.

CooperVision, is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of contact lenses.  It is based in Southampton, UK and has raised more than £27,000 for Abby’s Heroes through a variety of staff-led fundraising activities. Abby's Heroes supports children with cancer and their families across the south coast of England, and was chosen as CooperVision’s charity partner in 2022. Over the past three  years through a number of varied fund raising activies £27,000 was raised for Abby's Heroes. David Fawcett, community fundraiser at Abby’s Heroes, said: "We have loved working with the whole team at CooperVision. Their staff are so enthusiastic and really love engaging with us on events and activities. To have fundraised such an amazing sum of money is incredible." Keith Butler of CooperVision said: "We have really enjoyed supporting Abby’s Heroes over the last three years." 

You can find out more about Abby's Heroes here.

Loving and generous God,

we are bursting with gratitude

for all that you give.

You have lavished us with gifts

of your grace and forgiveness,

friendship and comfort.

You provide for us in times of need

and grant us peace when our world is in turmoil.

We thank you.

We exalt You, Lord God

who has made all things.

Every atom of the universe is the work of your hand.

You know each of us

with our worries, fears and concerns. 

You know our sinfulness,

our failings and weakness,

yet you love us.

You seek us out and draw us close

and you want a personal relationship with each of us.

We thank You, Lord,

for you lift us from the depths of our despair

and free us from the oppression of sin.

You heal, restore and remake us,

new creations,

by the power of your Holy Spirit.

We sing your praises.

Blessing and glory and honour be yours for ever.

Amen.