Pray for Children and Families as El Niño Develops

Around the world, agencies are closely monitoring the development of El Niño, a climate pattern that affects weather systems across multiple continents. Current forecasts suggest this event could be particularly strong, bringing increased risks of drought, flooding, extreme heat and disruption to communities already facing immense challenges.

Children living in poverty are among the most vulnerable when disasters and climate shocks occur. Previous El Niño events have been associated with food insecurity, displacement, disease outbreaks, disruption to livelihoods and damage to homes and infrastructure.

For many families, a failed harvest or damaged livelihood means difficult choices about food, education and healthcare. Roads become impassable. Schools are forced to close. Children are more vulnerable to illness, malnutrition and exploitation. Local churches and communities often find themselves responding to needs far beyond their usual capacity.

Through our local church partners, Compassion responds when disasters affect children and families. Emergency responses can include food support, access to clean water, temporary shelter, emotional care and child protection, alongside longer-term support as communities recover and rebuild.

Long after headlines fade, local churches remain embedded in their communities, continuing to walk alongside children and families with practical care, encouragement and the hope of Jesus.

Join us in praying

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6-7

Let’s pray that the outcomes prove less severe than anticipated; for wisdom and preparedness; for protection over children and families; and that, whatever lies ahead, God's love would be made visible through his people.

For children and families most at risk

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1

Father God,

We lift before you children and families living in communities

most likely to be affected by drought, flooding, storms and extreme weather.

You know every child by name.

You see those who already face uncertainty

about their next meal, their education or their safety.

We pray for your protection over children who are especially vulnerable.

Guard them from hunger, disease, injury and displacement.

Strengthen parents and caregivers as they carry heavy burdens

and make difficult decisions.

May children know they’re not forgotten,

and may they experience your love and care

through their families, communities and local churches.

Amen.

For governments, agencies and community leaders

"If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all." James 1:5

Sovereign God,

We pray for governments, emergency services,

aid agencies and community leaders

all preparing for the months ahead.

Grant wisdom as plans are made and resources allocated.

Help leaders work together effectively

and act early where action is needed.

We pray for good preparation, strong communication

and wise decision-making that protects lives and livelihoods.

Where infrastructure is fragile, provide resilience.

Where communities may become isolated,

make a way for help to reach those who need it.

We thank you for those who devote their lives to serving others in times of crisis.

Strengthen them and protect them in their work.

Amen.

For Compassion's local church partners

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9

Father of compassion and God of all comfort,

Thank you for the local churches who faithfully serve children

and families in their communities day after day.

Should disasters come, equip them to respond

with wisdom, compassion and courage.

Provide the resources needed to offer food,

shelter, practical support and emotional care.

Strengthen pastors, project staff and volunteers

as they walk alongside those who are grieving, frightened or displaced.

Help them continue not only to meet immediate needs,

but also to bring lasting hope through counselling,

discipleship and ongoing support as communities recover and rebuild.

Amen.

For our own hearts

"In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33

Lord Jesus Christ,

As we hear of challenges facing communities around the world,

help us respond with compassion rather than indifference.

When rising food prices or shortages affect us here in the UK,

help us remember families already living in extreme poverty.

While we may feel the pressure of higher costs,

many parents are already facing hunger,

illness and uncertainty about how they will provide for their children.

We do not understand everything that happens in this world,

but we know that you are faithful.

Strengthen your Church to be a source of hope,

practical care and steadfast love for children and families facing hardship.

And help us never grow weary of serving others in your name.

Amen.

Supporting urgent needs

Our Disaster Fund helps provide rapid, locally led responses when emergencies affect the communities we serve. Our local church partners are already present, known and trusted, so they can coordinate tailored support quickly.