Migration of people: 26 January-1 February

1. The European Parliament approved the terms of the UK's departure from the European Union in an historic vote on Wednesday. MEPs ratified the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement by 621 votes to 49, following an emotional debate in Brussels. Approval by the European Parliament marked the final stage of the ratification process, before the UK's exit at 11pm on 31st January. The UK also participated in its last meeting as an EU member on Tuesday. This was when Foreign Office minister Chris Pincher attended a meeting of the General Affairs Council. After the UK leaves, an 11-month transition period begins. During this time, the two sides hope to negotiate their future economic relationship. Trade talks are expected to begin in early March.

Pray for all MEPs who will be losing their jobs as a result of the UK leaving the EU. Ask that trade talks proceed smoothly and are beneficial to both sides.

2. The death toll from the coronavirus outbreak has now risen to 213. In addition, a confirmed case in Tibet means it has reached every region in mainland China. As of 29th January, Chinese health authorities said there were nearly 10,000 confirmed cases in the country. Infections have also spread to at least 18 other countries, with two confirmed cases in the UK. A flight bringing 83 British nationals back to the UK from Wuhan will return home to RAF Brize Norton at 1.30pm today. Upon arrival, passengers will be taken to Arrowe Park hospital on the Wirral, put in “supported isolation” for 14 days and given “all necessary medical attention.”

Pray for the families and friends of all those who have died as a result of this outbreak. Pray that a vaccine can be developed that gives protection against this deadly virus.

3. A commemorative 50p piece has been issued by the Royal Mint to mark the UK’s exit from the European Union on 31st January. It bears the words “Peace, prosperity and friendship.” According to the Treasury, three million coins will be issued on Friday. It has, however, caused controversy. Some individuals believe a comma should appear after the word “prosperity” and for this reason have refused to use it. Others have refused to accept it in change from retailers. A commemorative coin was also minted when the UK joined the EEC in 1973 and again to mark our 25th anniversary as members.

Pray that all Remainers accept the UK’s decision to leave the EU with good grace. Ask that, in the future, the UK will no longer be a country divided by Leave or Remain.

4. According to figures obtained by the BBC’s Panorama programme, 38 people have been killed in the last five years on ‘smart’ motorways. A smart motorway is when the hard shoulder has been converted into a “live lane” to ease congestion. Four hundred miles of road have so far been converted to smart motorways. Some people believe this conversion should be halted or reversed. One of the criticisms of these roads is a lack of emergency refuge areas. They were originally located every 550 yards; some are now located every 2,750 yards.

Pray for the families of those who have been killed on smart motorways and for their families. Pray for Transport Secretary Grant Shapps, as he decides which sensible long-term solutions to implement.

5. Here at the Nationwide Christian Trust, we have our music and ministry evening with ‘Vinesong’ on 9th February. 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.