Churches, Prayer
24 days of prayer for the work of Tearfund's partners around the world.
This Advent, journey with us through 24 days of prayer, inspired by Tearfund’s Useful Gifts and the work of our partners around the world. Each day offers a simple prayer focus and scripture to help you prepare for the joy of Christmas with hope and justice.
Follow the links to learn more about each daily theme, and let these stories and resources inspire your prayers. Check out the daily Bible verses to reflect on how God’s Word can speak into our prayers for our world today.
Download your Advent prayer calendar (PDF)
Praise God for families like Mrs Khoun’s in Cambodia who, with support from Tearfund’s partners, are finding new ways to grow food and strengthen their livelihoods. Pray for communities facing food insecurity, that they would have access to resources, training, and opportunities to provide for their families with dignity.
“The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food in due season. You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.” – Psalm 145:15–16
Want to go deeper? Read 5 Things You Need to Know to learn more about the global hunger crisis and how Tearfund is responding.
Nearly half of all deaths in children under five are related to malnutrition. Praise God for community health volunteers who are standing in the gap, providing vital support and treatment for vulnerable children like Salifyanji in Zambia. Pray for children around the world facing malnutrition, that they would be nourished, protected, and surrounded by care that allows them to grow and thrive.
“He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, ‘Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me.’” – Mark 9:36–37
Want to go deeper? Read The challenge mums and their children face in Zambia to learn how Tearfund’s partners in Zambia are helping families overcome hunger and undernutrition.
Praise God for the ways that learning opportunities are opening up brighter futures for children and adults, giving people pathways to experience their potential! Pray for teachers and community leaders as they encourage families to see the value in education, especially for girls, who often miss out.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” – John 10:10
Want to go deeper? Read the stories of education champions in South Sudan, and lift them up by name in your prayers.
As you share a meal, tell a story about a teacher who shaped you. Give thanks for their influence and pray for teachers shaping futures today.
Millions of people like Caterina depend on agriculture for their food and livelihoods, but challenges like climate change and conflict are threatening what farmers can grow, eat and sell. Pray for hope for farming families, for access to the resources and skills they need for better economic and nutritional outcomes.
“You care for the land and water it; you enrich it abundantly. The streams of God are filled with water to provide the people with grain, for so you have ordained it. You drench its furrows and level its ridges; you soften it with showers and bless its crops. You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance.” – Psalm 65:9–11
Want to go deeper? Read Fighting Hunger and Malnutrition Holistically to see how Tearfund partners are supporting farmers with practical solutions.
Praise God for girls around the world who are longing to learn, and for families and teachers who are opening doors of opportunity through education.
Pray especially for girls in Afghanistan, where more than 2 million have been denied secondary schooling. Ask God to protect their hope, and to bring change so that every girl is free to pursue her God-given potential through learning. Pray also for Tearfund’s partners who are advocating for gender equality and creating opportunities for girls and women.
“Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her.” – Proverbs 8:11
Pray for meaningful steps forward for our nation in seeking to address the injustices and inequalities faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and pray for the organisations Tearfund partners with in Australia in this work. Give thanks for Christian leaders in First Nations communities who work tirelessly to help their communities flourish with fullness of life.
“For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge – that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” – Ephesians 3:14–21
Take a walk through a local park, river or coastline, giving thanks for the stewardship of First Nations peoples over land and water for generations. Pray for healing where land and people still bear wounds of injustice.
Praise God for communities like Pansu’s in Pakistan who, after years of struggling without toilets or safe water, are now experiencing health and dignity through the work of Tearfund’s partners. With access to clean water and proper sanitation, families are free from the daily dangers and indignity they once faced.
Pray for the millions who still walk long distances for unsafe water or live without toilets. Ask God to protect the most vulnerable, especially women and children, and to bless the work of local partners bringing safe water, hygiene and hope.
“Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” – John 7:37–38
Want to go deeper? Read how water is a gender inequality issue that impacts the lives of women and girls around the world.
Today, global hunger and food insecurity, driven largely by conflict, economic instability, and climate shocks, continue to rise. A staggering 783 million people globally know the personal, daily ache of chronic hunger.
Pray for provision of nourishing food and clean water for those in need. Pray for healing for those suffering from malnutrition and hunger. Ask God to bring rain at the right time where it is needed most, leading to good harvests and renewed water sources.
“He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. The Lord sets prisoners free.” – Psalm 146:7
Want to go deeper? Use our guide to pray for the global hunger crisis.
Prepare a simple meal today, perhaps using leftovers or basic staples like rice or bread. If you have little ones, involve them in the cooking. As you eat together, give thanks and remember families who face hunger each day.
For millions of children and their families around the world, missing out on an education is one of the most devastating effects of poverty. It quickly becomes a cycle: those whose families are poor miss out, and in turn, they have fewer opportunities to earn an income later in life. Breaking the cycle is incredibly effective in changing the course of a person’s life. Indeed, achieving a basic education is a key step toward fullness of life – unlocking a world of other opportunities.
Pray for every child to have access to safe, quality learning. Ask God to strengthen teachers, resource schools, and move governments and communities to prioritise education for all – especially for girls and those most often left behind.
“Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.” – Proverbs 9:9
The impacts of poverty are often compounded for people living with disability, who can face isolation and stigma, even from their own families. Pray that people with disabilities would be embraced and supported as leaders in their homes and communities, like Punya, who is a passionate advocate for others regardless of their perceived limitations. Praise God for his image in every person!
“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them.” – Genesis 1:27
Every day, an estimated 700 women die from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth*. Poverty creates many hurdles for mums and babies: limited access to medical services, lack of nutritious food, and unsafe birthing conditions. Praise God for the work of Tearfund’s partners who are equipping communities with maternal health care, nutrition programs, and trained birth attendants so that mothers and babies can survive and thrive.
Pray for protection and good health for pregnant women, infants and their families. Ask God to strengthen those who support them, and to bless efforts that bring fullness of life in those early, vulnerable years.
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.” – Psalm 139:13
In many communities, gender inequality keeps women trapped in cycles of poverty, where access, opportunity and voice are denied. Pray that in places of abuse and conflict, hearts would be softened and relationships restored. Pray for transformation in communities where gender inequality keeps people, especially women, trapped in the cycle of poverty. Praise God for the ways that women are being empowered and helping to shape more just households and communities.
Pray especially for Tearfund’s partner Strong Women Talking, which works to break the cycle of violence by educating women, youth and families about abuse and creating safe pathways forward.
“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.” – Psalm 29:11
Read Mary’s Song (Luke 1:46–55) aloud today. As you reflect on her courage and faith, pray for women who are raising their voices for justice and change.
Across the world, millions of families struggle to earn enough to meet even their most basic needs. Unstable work, lack of access to resources, and the impacts of conflict or climate change often mean that parents are unable to put food on the table, send their children to school, or build a secure future.
Pray for families striving to earn a living, that God would bless the work of their hands. Give thanks for Tearfund’s partners supporting communities with skills, tools and training to build sustainable livelihoods.
“You will have plenty to eat, until you are full, and you will praise the name of the Lord your God, who has worked wonders for you; never again will my people be shamed.” – Joel 2:26
For families living in poverty, the chance to start a small business can open the door to a more stable income. With access to training, support networks and small loans, parents can provide food, education and security for their children. Pray for those courageously beginning new enterprises, that their efforts would flourish and bring lasting dignity. Give thanks for Tearfund’s partners equipping families with the tools and skills to build thriving livelihoods.
“May the favour of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us – yes, establish the work of our hands.” – Psalm 90:17
Pray for a reduction in water-borne diseases, particularly amongst young children – half the world’s population still does not have access to safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene. Praise God for the ways that access to safe water is improving – like for this community in Zimbabwe.
“Everyone will sit under their own vine and under their own fig tree, and no one will make them afraid, for the Lord Almighty has spoken.” – Micah 4:4
The impacts of poverty, displacement and conflict are not only physical – they also affect people’s mental health and wellbeing. Without support, many carry invisible burdens of trauma and grief. A network of care and support helps people as they navigate their mental health journey. Pray for Tearfund’s partners who are doing the important work of providing care and support for mental wellbeing, and breaking down cultural barriers to better mental health.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
Give thanks for the faithful and courageous people who serve their communities, helping to tackle the challenges of poverty and create new opportunities. Ask God to protect them, provide for their needs, and encourage them today.
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” – Psalm 23:4
Want to go deeper? Read this reflection on why Tearfund and our partners remain faithful in serving in hard places.
Do one small but courageous thing for someone around you today – a generous tip, a kind note, or helping hand – as a way of practising courage in love.
Jesus came bringing ‘good news that will mean great joy for all people’ (Luke 2:10). Today, let’s give thanks for the many wonderful expressions of this good news around the world. Praise God for his people who are agents of good news in places of poverty and injustice.
“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation.” – Isaiah 52:7
Pray for communities who experience the impacts of climate change: for protection of homes and livelihoods, and wisdom and creativity for a sustainable future. Pray for more communities to experience hope through climate-resilient solutions. Ask God to lead us – from individuals to corporations to nations – to take steps to care for the earth God has given us to steward.
“You answer us with awesome and righteous deeds, God our Savior, the hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas, who formed the mountains by your power, having armed yourself with strength, who stilled the roaring of the seas, the roaring of their waves, and the turmoil of the nations. The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders; where morning dawns, where evening fades, you call forth songs of joy.” - Psalm 65:5–8
Use a sprig of greenery, a pinecone, or something natural in your Christmas decorations today. As you place it, pray for communities whose environment has been stripped by climate-related disaster.
Pray for those in positions of authority, that they would use their voice and influence with justice and mercy. Pray for wise and effective responses in times of crisis, and for unity and collaboration in responding to global issues. Praise Jesus, who has all authority in heaven and earth, and rules with justice and righteousness.
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” – 1 Timothy 2:1–2
In Afghanistan, decades of conflict, poverty and overlapping crises have left families deeply vulnerable. Recent earthquakes have added to the devastation, destroying homes and livelihoods and compounding trauma for already fragile communities. Around the world, countless others face similar hardships. Pray for communities recovering from disasters, particularly where they no longer have media attention. Getting help to the people that need it most can be difficult in times of disaster: ask God to make a way for aid and assistance to reach the most vulnerable, and that Christians would be vessels of his hope and care in times of chaos and tragedy.
“The Lord reigns forever; he has established his throne for judgment. He rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity. The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.” – Psalm 9:7–10
Leave one chair empty, or set an empty plate at your table today. As you eat, pause to remember those displaced by crisis or cut off from food and shelter.
Praise God for changed lives! Give thanks for people who are sharing with others the hope they have found. Pray for patience and faith when transformation is slow to emerge. Give glory to God for every story of transformation, small or great, known or hidden. Read this story of transformation from Laos and let it inspire your prayers.
“Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts. They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty and I will meditate on your wonderful works. They tell of the power of your awesome works and I will proclaim your great deeds. They celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.” – Psalm 145:3–7
Want to go deeper? Read about our partner, Oasis Mozambique and be inspired by how relationships are bringing lasting change.
Pray for increased faith when we wonder if our prayers for immense things like changed structures can make a difference! Ask God to make a way where there doesn’t seem to be one so that our world’s systems and structures can reflect his heart for justice, compassion and fullness of life.
“He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty.” – Luke 1:51–53
Want to go deeper? Read about the impact of global aid cuts and how the Church can respond with radical hope and generosity in this moment of global uncertainty.
On this Christmas Eve, we celebrate the gift of Jesus – God with us, the light shining in the darkness. In him, we find renewed hope: the fulfilment of our longings for a more just and compassionate world. Give thanks for the hope we share in Christ, who calls us to bear his light and life into the world. Pray that we would live as people of his Kingdom, bringing peace, joy and justice wherever we go.
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” – Isaiah 9:6
Today, light a candle and give thanks for the hope we have in Jesus. As you gather with family or friends, take a moment to name one way they’ve seen God’s hope at work this year. Celebrate these stories together.
* World Health Organisation. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/maternal-mortality
