More than 1.2 billion children around the world grow up without hope and basic necessities. This large group is normally untouched by the message of God’s love and compassion. What can we do? Speak up for vulnerable children who have no voice, pray for them, and be involved in offering them the hope that only Jesus can bring. Since 1995, the first weekend in June has been designated as World Weekend of Prayer for children at risk. Here are some resources you can use to educate and involve chiildren and familes year round.

Family Curriculum on Children at Risk

Red Card: Standing Against Oppression, Providing Hope is a dynamic, new curriculum from Caleb Resources that raises awareness of six different types of children at risk: children in poverty, orphans, street kids, child laborers, children of war, and children affected by HIV/AIDS. Created for a cross-generational audience, this 8-week class builds family unity and empowers kids to become advocates for vulnerable children - their own peers. Lessons include videos, simulations, family processing time, prayer, at-home activities, and practical steps for involvement. Participants gain a biblical perspective on God’s heart for the least of these and our mandate to respond. Hands-on learning allows participants to step into the daily lives of children at risk, which motivates them to make a difference. Designed as a church class, it may also be used in home groups and to train short-term family teams going to minister to children at risk. Content is age-appropriate for children grade 4 and up. Learn more or see a sample lesson.

Curriculum and Giving Project for Kids

Kidzana Ministries' Operation 1+1: Rescue helps grade-school kids learn about children ar risk, pray for them, and collect change to help reach them for Christ. Use during Vacation Bible School or over 4-8 weeks in your regular kids’ meetings. A variety of schedule ideas and curriculum/lessons are offered. Includes Director's Guide on CD, prayer cards, giving boxes, parent flyers, posters, and more.

World Weekend of Prayer Materials

Viva Network facilitates the annual World Weekend of Prayer for children at risk, held the first weekend in June. Through partnership with many prayer ministries and networks, millions of people join in this international prayer event. Consider praying over this weekend and perhaps even holding an event of your own. Viva Network provides many ideas for interactive intercession and different ways of engaging people in prayer. Downloadable, free prayer resources are available in several different languages.

Your partner in children's ministry,
Karen

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