Virginia Giuffre Memoir, U.S.- China Full-Blown Trade War, Nestle Layoffs, NYC Mayoral Debate

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Summarized Transcript: 

Good morning, everyone. It is October 16, 2025. Here are the stories we’re praying about today: 

1. Virginia Giuffre’s Posthumous Memoir

Virginia Roberts Giuffre’s memoir, “Nobody’s Girl: A Memoir of Surviving Abuse and Fighting for Justice,” co-written with Amy Wallace, was released on October 14, 2025, detailing her claims of being trafficked by Jeffrey Epstein to prominent figures like Prince Andrew. The book, completed before Giuffre’s alleged suicide in April, expands on her story but offers few new revelations. It recounts her fight for justice against powerful abusers. The memoir has reignited discussions about accountability for Epstein’s associates.

2. U.S.-China Trade War Escalates

This past Tuesday, President Trump declared a full-blown trade war with China, halting U.S. purchases of Chinese cooking oil in retaliation for China’s shift to Argentine and Brazilian soybeans after U.S. tariffs imposed in April. China, previously the top buyer of American soybeans, cited Trump’s tariffs as an “economically hostile act.” The escalating trade dispute, announced weeks before Trump’s meeting with Xi Jinping, threatens broader economic impacts. Both nations are bracing for further retaliatory measures.

3. Nestle Announces Major Layoffs

Nestle, the Swiss food giant behind brands like Toll House and Nespresso, will cut 16,000 jobs worldwide by 2027, including 12,000 white-collar positions and 4,000 in production. The layoffs aim to save $1.25 billion, doubling prior cost-cutting plans. The decision reflects efforts to streamline operations amid economic pressures. Affected workers face uncertainty as Nestle restructures globally.

4. New York City Mayoral Debate

The first New York City mayoral debate set for tonight, features independent Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa challenging Democratic frontrunner Zohran Mamdani, who defeated Cuomo in the primary. Cuomo, seeking a political comeback after resigning as governor in 2021 amid sexual harassment allegations, faces high stakes to sway voters. Mamdani’s momentum makes the debate critical for both challengers.

So let’s pray…

Heavenly Father,

We first lift up the legacy of Virginia Giuffre, who shared her story of surviving abuse in her memoir. We pray for healing and justice for all victims in the Epstein case. Grant strength to those fighting for truth and accountability.

Lord, as tensions escalate in the U.S.-China trade war, we ask for wisdom for leaders like President Trump and Xi Jinping, that they make decisions that will benefit the global economy.

For the 16,000 workers facing layoffs at Nestle, provide comfort and new opportunities for those impacted by this decision. I also pray for a movement across industries for companies to look out for more than just their bottom line, but to focus on providing jobs, opposed to just cutting them to save money.

In the New York City mayoral race between Andrew Cuomo, Curtis Sliwa, and Zohran Mamdani, we first ask for a lively debate where the public can clearly see everyone’s positions on the issues that matter most to them. We know that no leader comes into power apart from your sovereign will, Lord. Guide the residents of New York City to vote for whoever will help the city flourish.

In your name, Jesus

Amen.

Thank you for listening to News on Knees, a community prayer podcast by Story King Media. 

If you want to join the movement, I’m calling all believers, anyone who wants to pray for the world, their country, their region, a specific societal issue. Using something as simple as the voice memo app on your phone, record a 1–2 minute prayer and email it to: 

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Simply write the word ‘PRAYER’ in the subject line of the email. 

Sources: 

1. Virginia Giuffre’s Posthumous Memoir
2. U.S.-China Trade War Escalates 
3. Nestle Announces Major Layoffs 
4. New York City May