Melissa Newell is a Mission Partner serving with the Methodist Church in Ecuador. In recent weeks, violence has erupted between the Ecuadorian Government and drug cartels operating in the country. Melissa writes:

I am sure you will have heard about recent events in Ecuador as it is once again in the international news. To be honest, I have been struggling to work out exactly when it all kicked off or why exactly. In short, on 8th January the new president, Daniel Noboa, announced a State of Emergency, granting police special powers and imposing a nationwide curfew from 11pm to 5am after a drug gang leader escaped from prison on 7th January, and then on 9th January President Noboa launched what he described as an internal armed conflict against drug cartels and gangs.

Unfortunately, schools have been closed since 10th January as part of the response/threat. I say unfortunately, because, many children in our area still do not have Internet, signal or devices adequate for online learning. We also had to cancel our feeding programme this week due to classes being off. 

My parents are currently visiting, and they have had a wonderful first week. This week has been an odd one, and it has been sad not to see the church activities ‘in full swing’, but we have still been enjoying the visit.  

At this time, I would like to share some very specific prayer points, covering a range of topics:  

- For President Daniel Noboa as he plans and leads this strategy to reduce drug and cartel related crime that has been plaguing Ecuador in the last few years 

- For Ecuadorians who are tired of seeing their country suffer and who wish to return to the tranquillity this country used to enjoy 

- For all the children in the Misahualli area who have been unable to attend school this week, or the church activities, and who do not have the resources they need at home 

- For my parents and their visit: that we will all be safe, be able to enjoy the final days together, see a bit more of the church activities, and have safe travel home. As I mentioned in my last newsletter, my visa is currently in process of being renewed. I am currently missing one document that I need. Please pray that I get this document without any trouble or (further) hassle.  

Thank you for your prayers. 

Ecuador is a wonderful country, and I had a wonderful Christmas and New Year here, spent with both Ecuadorian friends and friends from other countries, with my parents being welcomed warmly everywhere we have been. It is so sad to be sending an update so soon afterwards asking for prayer on these topics.

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