Strong Family Sunday Toolkit : simplebooklet.com

StrongFamilySunday10th Nov 202401Strong Family Sunday (Orphan/StandSunday) calls upon churches,organizations, spiritual leaders, familiesand followers of Jesus Christ to advocatefor every child to know the love offamily by promoting family care thatincludes biological, kinship, foster andadoption; globally, nationally, and locally.We invite you to join HelpingChildren Worldwide, churches andorganizations in over 120 nations inobserving Strong Family Sunday onNovember 10, 2024. Inspire yourcongregation to pray for children andfamilies in need.Let us unite in faith and action toensure "A Strong Family for EveryChild."Permanence.Resilience.Dignity.

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“A Strong Family for Every Child” has been embraced by faith leaders andinstitutions within the United Methodist Church (UMC). Helping ChildrenWorldwide serves as the Secretariat for this initiative. The initiative aims to:A Strong Family for Every Child InitiativeCare for the widow and orphan as examples of themost vulnerable in God’s Kingdom.Promote family care for children, aligning withspiritual directives.Advocate for safe, permanent families of allshapes and sizes to prevent the separation ofchildren from the love of family.Provide practical guidance for people of faith whowish to engage in ethical ministry with orphanedand vulnerable children and youth.

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Family Care: Experts advocate foralternatives such as foster care, adoption,or maintaining children within theirbiological families whenever possible.These options are generally seen as morebeneficial for children's developmentcompared to institutional care.Policy Changes: There is a call forsystematic changes to reduce reliance oninstitutional care, including better supportfor family-based care systems andimproved early intervention services toprevent family separation.Both institutional care and street-connected living present significantchallenges for children's development andwell-being. The consensus among expertsis that family care, supported by robustsocial services and community-basedinterventions, is generally more beneficialfor children. For street-connectedchildren, the role of supportiveorganizations and improved public healthpolicies are crucial in mitigating theadverse effects of their living conditions.Addressing these issues requirescoordinated efforts from governments,NGOs, and communities to create saferand more nurturing environments for allchildren.A Better Way To Care

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FactsCurrent global estimates:02We invite you toshare this video withyour congregationduring worship onStrong Family Sunday10th Nov 2024.UNICEF estimates that there are 150 million orphaned childrenworldwide, including 17.6 million who have lost both parents.However, global orphan data is inherently limited. Manyestimates fail to account for the millions of children living ininstitutions, on the streets, or those who are victims of exploitationand trafficking, who are often underreported or not reported atall.1Christian Alliance For Orphans, “On Understanding Orphan Statistics,” 2014, https://issuu.com/christianalliancefororphans/docs/orphan-statistics-web-10.2017__1_1.UNICEF, “Children in alternative care”, 2024, https://data.unicef.org/topic/child-protection/children-alternative-care/#status2.0 50 100 150 200 250 300WorldMile East and Nor AfricaSou AsiaLatin America and CaribbeanEastern and Souern AfricaEast Asia and PacificEastern Europe and Central AsiaWestern EuropeRate of children in residential care per 100,000:Globally, an estimated 102 children per 100,000 were in residential care in 2023. 2Whatch the video:

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Point those who feel called to do moreto find resources on our website:03Acknowledge that the problem is significant, but the ways of the Lord are infinite, and no one isexpected to do more than a small part of His great work. We provide this small booklet as a toolkit foryour observance of Strong Family Sunday on November 10, 2024. Use it in your home devotions,church small groups and incorporate its suggestions into your worship service on Strong FamilySunday. We Encourage You To Follow us and share our social media postswith your friends, family and communitynetwork:@helpingchildrenworldwideStrongfamily4everychild.orgWatch and share the Strong Family Sundayvideo with your congregation.Use the provided prayer guide for your time ofintercession. Open your heart to let Holy Spiritguide you for caring the vulnerable children andtheir families.Follow the Strong Family Playlist on Spotify anduse it for your time of prayer and worship.Recognize foster and adoptive parents in yourchurch or community with a special blessingRecognize social workers in your church orcommunity with a special blessing.If you want to learn more, use the providedmedia resources to educate yourself more andfind out how you can become a family advocate. ParticipateHow To

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Prayer GuideMaybe you have a prayer in your own heart. Maybe you don’t know where to start. No worries!We have gathered prayers for you that you can use in your time of intercession and prayer.04Prayer forVulnerable ChildrenHeavenly Father,We come before you with hearts full of compassion andlove for the children in this world living withoutfamilies. You are the loving Father of us all, and weknow that you care deeply for these preciouschildren; lost and alone.Lord, we pray for comfort and peace to surround thesechildren. Let them feel your presence, even in theirloneliness. Wrap your loving arms around them andremind them that they are not forgotten, for you knoweach one by name.We ask that you guide them to caregivers who will befamily for them, and for professionals, mentors andguardians who help them to find their way to loving andpermanent homes. Bless those who work tirelessly inthe foster care system, and adoption agencies. Blessthose who work to help families heal so children canreturn to their homes when that’s possible. Bless thosewho help children move from the street or out oforphanages into the safe and loving families theydeserve and need to thrive. Grant all those who care forvulnerable children the strength and wisdom they need.We also pray for these children’s emotional andphysical well-being. Heal any wounds they may carryfrom their past and help them find home in Yourpromises.Lord, we thank you for the opportunity to pray forthese children. We know that you have a plan for eachof them to thrive, and we know that we must do ourpart to help to care for these, Your most vulnerablechildren.We pray that each one finds the love of a foreverfamily, whether through adoption, fostering, or returnto their own families.In the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior, we pray. Amen.

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Prayer ofConfessionOne: Merciful God, will you please forgive us for the timeswe thought of our own children but not of orphanedchildren?Many: For when we prayed for our children and forgot topray for children in orphanages, foster care, and living onthe streets without a loving family of their own?One: We have looked the other way.Many: Forgive us, God.One: We have closed our ears to their cries.Many: Forgive us, God.One: We have let it be someone else’s problem.Many: Forgive us, God.One: We are called to care for orphans and we have not.Many: Forgive us, God.One: God, in your mercy, invigorate your church to see, tohear, and to respond to the needs of orphaned children inour city, country, and in your world. May our futureactions reflect our repentance and gratitude for yourforgiveness. By the power of your Spirit through Christ.Amen.Prayer forprofessionalsGod of all power and might, hear our prayers for them andtheir work:For caseworkers whose jobs sometimes seem thankless,grant refreshment by your Spirit and the rich gift ofencouragement.For judges, lawyers, and guardian ad litem, grant theconviction of the Spirit to act justly, love mercy, and walkhumbly in your ways. May their compassion be evident,their knowledge grant favor, and their singular concern beto find favor in your sight.For legislators and policy makers, grant them insight andnon-partisan conviction to vote and act in the best interestof orphaned children, according to your will and ways.For placing agencies, grant them the integrity to providefor the whole family as image bearers of yourself, worthyto be treated with dignity. May their mission to those theyserve always be prioritized over the bottom line.For all others who participate with you as you work at“setting the lonely in families” according to Psalm 68:6.Fortify them by the truth that as much as they have donefor the least, they do it to you. May it be so in the name ofthe Word made flesh, Jesus our Lord. Amen.

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Prayer of HopeFor 153 million orphans in the world.Lord, our hope is in you.For 443,000 children with no families in the U.S.Lord, our hope is in you.For one child, one loving family, and until noone orphan remains.Oh Lord, our hope is in you.Amen.A Prayer forOrphans to Find FamilyHeavenly Father, thank You for those who care for the orphansaround the world. Thank You, Father, for those who seek toensure that every child knows the love and belonging to be foundin family.Your Word tells us that pure and genuine religion in Your sightmeans caring for orphans and widows in their distress andrefusing to let the world corrupt us. You set the lonely infamilies. Your own son was ‘adopted’ by an earthly Father. Lord, guide us in shepherding Your orphaned and vulnerablechildren safely into the permanent, safe and loving homes theyneed and deserve. Amen.

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Here you can find the songs you can use in your prayer andworship time to intercede for families in your congregation,community, nation and all over the world.Music06HymnsResources"Children of the Heavenly Father" (141)This hymn emphasizes God’s care andprotection over His children."The Gift of Love" (408)This hymn reflects on love as the greatest gift."Lord, Whose Love Through Humble Service" (581)This hymn praises God's love demonstratedthrough humble service and acts of kindness. "Jesus, United by Thy Grace" (561)This hymn celebrates the bond that believersshare through their relationship with Christ."Blest Be the Tie That Binds" (557)This classic hymn reflects on the unity andfellowship of believers in Christ."O Church of God, United" (547)This hymn calls for unity and strength withinthe Church."Open My Eyes, That I May See" (454)A prayerful hymn which seeks spiritual adeeper understanding of God's will."All Who Love and Serve Your City" (433)This hymn focuses on the call to love andserve one’s community. "Lord, I Want to Be a Christian" (402)A heartfelt plea for personal transformation,and a desire to grow in faith and character."Come, Ye Sinners, Poor and Needy" (340)This hymn invites those who are burdenedand seeking redemption to come to Christ. Methodist Hymnal"Give Thanks" (#2036)This hymn focuses on gratitude and thanksgiving to God."God Weeps" (#2048)This hymn addresses the theme of God's empathy and compassion for human suffering."Mothering God, You Gave Me Birth" (#2050)This hymn presents a nurturing and maternal viewof God's care. "I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry" (#2051)This hymn reflects on the presence of Godthroughout the journey of life, from birth to death."Star Child" (#2095)This Christmas hymn highlights Jesus’s role as a lightin the world and a beacon of hope. "All Who Hunger" (#2126)This hymn invites all who are spiritually hungry tocome and be fed by God's grace."His Eye Is on the Sparrow" (#2146)This hymn reassures believers of God's watchfulcare and attention to every detail of their lives. "Make Me a Servant" (#2176)This hymn is a prayerful request for humility and aservant’s heart. "Lord, Listen to Your Children Praying" (#2193)This hymn is a plea for God's attention and Hisresponse to the prayers of His people."Lord of All Hopefulness" (#2197)This hymn seeks God’s presence in various aspectsof life, from morning to evening. "They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love" (#2223)This hymn emphasizes the importance of love as adefining characteristic of Christian identity.Faith We SingStrong Family Playlist

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“Faithful to Me” by The Worship Initiative & CAFOPowerful worship song were written to help God’speople know, love and worship Him as the Father tothe Fatherless (Psalm 68:5-6). “Home in the Family” by The Worship Initiative & CAFOHeartfelt worship song were written to help God’speople know, love and worship Him as the Father tothe Fatherless (Psalm 68:5-6).“What a Father’s Like” by The Worship Initiative & CAFOPowerful worship song were written to help God’speople know, love and worship Him as the Father tothe Fatherless (Psalm 68:5-6).“ Blessing" by Kari Jobe & Cody CarnesPowerful worship song centered around a biblicalblessing from the book of Numbers.“Good, Good Father" by Chris TomlinHeartfelt worship song that celebrates thecompassionate nature of God as a perfect Father. “Graves Into Gardens" by Brandon LakeThis anthem celebrates God's ability to turn even thedarkest situations into something beautiful and life-giving. “God Problems" by Maverick City MusicWorship song that cexplore the tension betweentrusting in God and dealing with personal andcommunal difficulties.“The Father’s Song" byJake HamiltonDeeply emotive worship song that explores theintimate and aspects of God’s love as a Father.“Do It Again" by Elevation WorshipPowerful worship song that centers on God'sfaithfulness and the trust in His ability to performmiracles.“Take A Moment" by United PursuitContemplative worship song that encourageslisteners to pause and focus on their relationshipwith God. “The Father’s House" by Cory AsburyWorship song that celebrates the welcoming andtransformative nature of God's presence.ModernWorship Songs“Canvas And Clay” by Pat BarrettThis song celebratees the idea that every partof our journey, including the challenges, is partof God’s purposeful design.“No Longer Slaves" by Bethel MusicPowerful worship song that speaks to thefreedom and identity found in Christ“More Than Able" by Evelation WorshipSong that affirm God's ability to accomplish farbeyond what we can imagine or ask for.“Ruins" by Maverick City MusicDeeply soulful worship song that reflectsthemes of redemption and restoration.“Heal Our Land" by Maverick City MusicPowerful worship song that petitions God forhealing and restoration in the land and in thelives of individuals. “God Of This City” by Chris TomlinImpactful worship song that celebrates God'ssovereignty and power in every city andcommunity“You Raise Me Up" by SelahPowerful song that speaks to the strength andencouragement found in faith and support fromothers.“How Deep The Father’s Love For Us" by SelahPoignant worship song that reflects on theprofound and sacrificial love of God the Father,particularly as demonstrated through thecrucifixion of Jesus Christ.

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Strong FamilyPlaylistScan MeScan MeScan MePrayer Songs“Mother’s Prayer" by Keith & Kristyn GettySong that reflects a mother's heartfelt desiresand prayers for her children. “My Little One" by Jon ThurlowTender and intimate worship song that reflectsa parent’s deep love and desire for their child. “Father’s Mountain”by Jon ThurlowReflective song that convey themes of God'ssteadfastness, majesty, and the sense ofsecurity found in His presence.“You Are My Hiding Place" by SelahComforting and reassuring worship song thatemphasizes finding refuge and safety in God'spresence. As for Me And My House" by John WallerHeartfelt and resolute song that focuses on thecommitment to serve and honor God withinone's family. “Rescue” by Lauren DaigleStirring worship song that focuses on God'swillingness and ability to save and deliverindividuals from their struggles and fears.“You Say” by Lauren DaigleIntrospective worship song that emphasizesidentity and self-worth from a biblicalperspective.“Family Tree" by Matthew WestInspirational song about breaking free from thepast and creating a new legacy."Children of The World" by Amy GrantUplifting and socially conscious song that callsfor unity, compassion, and love across allnations."Blessings" by Laura StoryReflective and emotional song about God'sblessings through challenges and hardships. "In Your Presence" by Jason UptonDeeply spiritual and intimate worship song thatinvites listeners into a profound experience ofGod's presence."Father’s Song" by Matthew RedmanTouching and reflective worship song thatexplores the deep, unconditional love of God asa Father. "Look Up Child" by Lauren DaigleSoulful and uplifting song that encourageslisteners to find hope and renewal by turning toGod. "Orphans Of God" by AvalonPoignant and moving worship song thataddresses themes of belonging, compassion,and divine care. “Father of the Fatherless" by Jason UptonMoving worship song that focuses on God'srole as a loving and caring Father to those whoare orphaned or in need of fatherly support.

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BooksMy Long Way Back HomeMemories from an “Orphan” on a Quest toFind His Family and to Help Other ChildrenFind Their Way Back HomeWhen Helping HurtsHow to Alleviate PovertyWithout Hurting the Poor. . . and Yourself´Connected ChildBring Hope and Healingto Your Adoptive FamilyOrphan JusticeHow to Care for OrphansBeyond AdoptingPodcastsThink Global, Do JusticeOptimistic Voices Podcast07Join us as global experts in health, child welfare, andethical missions share hopeful insights and bestpractices in tackling complex challenges across low-resource communities and developing nations.The podcast and community for globally mindeddisciples seeking God's justice, mercy and shalomthroughout the world.The Forgotten Podcast highlights foster careissues, focusing on uplifting and raising awarenessfor agency workers, foster parents, andvulnerable children and adults.The Forgotten PodcastMediaResources

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FilmsWatch theStrong FamilySunday videohere:Lost KitesLost Kites follows a young film team searching for solutions to the global orphancrisis, only to have their lives changed by three resilient kids facing immensechallenges. Amid street life, orphanage care, and abandonment, the team discovershope in a transformative family-based model that could reshape orphan care forever.Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum TrotThe true story of Donna and Reverend WC Martin and their church in East Texas,in which 22 families adopted 77 children from the local foster system, igniting amovement for vulnerable children everywhere.LionA five-year-old Indian boy is adopted by an Australian couple after getting losthundreds of kilometers from home. 25 years later, he sets out to find his lost family.Share it withyour congrecation!

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A Strong Family for Every Child is a grassroots education and advocacyinitiative of the United Methodist Church that: promotes care for widowsand orphans as examples of the most vulnerable in God's kingdom, familycare for all children in alignment with spiritual directives, advocacy for safe,permanent and loving families of all shapes and sizes, and works to preventthe separation of children from the love of family.A Prayer of Hope For 153 million orphans in the world,Lord, our hope is in you. For 443,000 children without familiesin the US, Lord, our hope is in you.For one child, one loving family, anduntil no one orphan remains.Oh Lord, our hope is in you.Amen.Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God theFather means caring for orphans and widows intheir distress and refusing to let the worldcorrupt you. James 1:27Scan the codeto learn more:A Strong Family for Every Child is a grassroots education and advocacyinitiative of the United Methodist Church that: promotes care for widowsand orphans as examples of the most vulnerable in God's kingdom, familycare for all children in alignment with spiritual directives, advocacy for safe,permanent and loving families of all shapes and sizes, and works to preventthe separation of children from the love of family.A Prayer of Hope For 153 million orphans in the world,Lord, our hope is in you. For 443,000 children without familiesin the US, Lord, our hope is in you.For one child, one loving family, anduntil no one orphan remains.Oh Lord, our hope is in you.Amen.Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God theFather means caring for orphans and widows intheir distress and refusing to let the worldcorrupt you. James 1:27Scan the codeto learn more:

Strong Family Sunday Toolkit

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