Millenials and Generation Z: 12 January-18 January

1. A major research report has indicated that prostate cancer is expected to become the UK’s most common form of cancer within ten years. Research shows that deaths have reached a record high, with more than 12,000 cases a year. This is an increase of almost 20% in the last ten years. However, only 47% of cases were detected at an early stage. While deaths from breast cancer have fallen by 5% in the last decade, prostate cancer deaths have risen by 17%.

Pray for all men diagnosed with prostate cancer and for their families. Ask that improvements in diagnosis and research lead to significant progress in early detection and treatment.

2. Prince Harry hosted the draw for the 2021 Rugby League World Cup at Buckingham Palace on Thursday. This was his first public engagement since he and the Duchess of Sussex announced they wanted to step back as full-time royals. The Duke has been patron of the Rugby Football League since December 2016. The tournament runs from 23 October to 27 November 2021 in 17 cities across England. Sixteen men's, eight women's and eight wheelchair teams will be taking part.

Pray for the Royal Family as the Queen has now agreed to a ‘transition period’ for the Duke and Duchess. Pray that the World Cup will encourage more people to take up sport and exercise.

3. A jab that is more effective than statins has been given the go-ahead by the NHS. A mass trial will involve tens of thousands of patients being given ‘gene-silencing injections’ that can halve levels of “bad cholesterol” in only two weeks. Initially the treatment will be given to 40,000 middle-aged men and women whose cholesterol levels remain high, despite taking statins daily. Estimates suggest this could prevent 55,000 heart attacks and strokes within 10 years, saving 30,000 lives.

Give thanks for the potential of this breakthrough treatment. Pray that it will be successful in treating the 60% of adults who have raised cholesterol levels.

4. It has been announced that the chimes of Big Ben will not be ringing out when the UK leaves the EU on 31st January. The issue was discussed at a meeting of the House of Commons Commission on Monday. However, it was dismissed over financial and logistical issues. The meeting was told the cost had risen to an estimated £500,000. This comes after 60 MPs had signed a letter calling on the Government to allow the 13-ton bell to ring symbolically on 31st January. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has since suggested individuals may wish to ‘crowdfund’ to raise the money required.

Pray that the government finds appropriate ways of marking the UK's historic departure from the EU. Pray that any celebrations by Leave politicians and others are not excessive, as there has been much division in the country over this issue.

5. Here at the Nationwide Christian Trust, our first Ladies Day for 2020 is on 30th January. Reona Joly will be speaking on the subject of ‘The Bible, the World’s Bestseller.’ On 9th February, we have our music and ministry evening with ‘Vinesong.’ Marilyn Baker and Tracy Williamson will be speaking on ‘From The Inside Out’ at our Ladies Day on 27th February. New volunteers for our Prayerline are always welcome. Please contact us if you would like more information, or to become part of this ministry.

Please pray that God will bless these events and help to empower all who attend in their walk of faith. Pray that it will be the start of a successful year for NCT with lives changed and souls won for Christ.