Midweek Memo: Third Covid Wave Devastating Europe

A third wave of Coronavirus is taking a devastating toll on Europe. The massive increase in cases seems to be the result of the variant known as B.1.1.7. The variant was first detected in the United Kingdom. Two months ago the World Health Organization warned that it would likely become the dominant strain in Europe and cause a huge uptick in cases, hospitalizations, and deaths, as early studies suggest it is more contagious and possibly deadlier than previous virus strains.

A variety of tables and charts reveal that Europe is indeed at the heart of the world’s toughest fight against Coronavirus at this time. Measurements of Covid-19 cases per capita, new cases, or where hospitalization rates are becoming unmanageable include countries such as Estonia, Hungary, Czech Republic, Serbia, Montenegro, Poland, Bulgaria, France, Sweden, Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, and Italy. 

Pray for Europeans to cry out to God and find him during this trial. Pray for missionaries to be wise, bold, and ready to share the truth of Jesus Christ. Pray for national leaders to make wise decisions for their people. Pray for the God of all comfort to draw near to those who are suffering and mourning. May this Easter weekend be one of resurrection and revival across the continent.