Japan is still recovering from the massive earthquake and tsunami on 11 March last year that left nearly 30,000 people dead or missing. Here is an update from the Revd Kazuhiro David Hayashi, in the Diocese of Kobe, part of Nippon Sei Ko Kai (NSKK, the Anglican Church of Japan):

NSKK earthquake relief centres have been set up at the provincial office in Tokyo, in Tohoku Diocese, where most damage was suffered, and in other dioceses. We are working together to aid recovery and to support those in distress. This is not solely an Anglican initiative, but also includes other Christian denominations, as well as other faiths and supporters.

We need your continuing prayers. There are still terrible conditions in many areas, with heaps of rubble and desolate landscapes.

In Sendai, Fukushima, the most immediate problem is radiation from the nuclear plant that was damaged in the disaster. There are various rumours regarding the extent of the danger of the radiation that cause great concern.

Yet we are able to progress day by day because we know our brothers and sisters throughout the Communion are praying for the victims and our relief activities. Prayer has the power of life. The Holy Communion gives us strength as we continue to worship the Lord.

The Most Revd John Kato, Bishop of Tohoku, said we must work together with creative power – and he has called upon us to draw inspiration from Christ, who suffered yet rose from the dead. We believe we can also rise up!

Sunday 29

Fourth Sunday of Epiphany: This week we pray for Japan during a time of restoration following last year’s tsunami.

God of mystery and hope,
Strengthen your church in Japan
That she may speak and act
With gentleness and authority,
Pointing the way to your healing presence.

Monday 30

Pray for those who are still suffering as a result of the earthquake and its after-effects, including those who live in evacuation centres, children, the elderly, the sick, and immigrants who have less access to government assistance.

Tuesday 31

Pray for those who are suffering as a result of other recent disasters, especially those in Japan’s Kii peninsula, which was hit in September by a massive typhoon.

Wednesday 1

Pray for all in Tohoku Diocese, including Bishop Kato, clergy and congregations. Give thanks for USPG’s support for the immediate Anglican response to the tsunami.

Thursday 2

Presentation of Christ in the Temple: Pray for everyone in the region of Fukushima, where the nuclear plant has leaked radiation. Pray especially for those undertaking dangerous work at the plant.

Friday 3

Remember all the ministries of the church, including its care for the homeless, for hard-pressed Filipino immigrant families, and for prisoners on death row.

Saturday 4

Give thanks for the solidarity of the Anglican Communion at times of natural disaster. Pray that this circle of prayer might engender unity in Christ.