Pure Religion Sunday
Pure Religion Sunday, previously known as Orphan Sunday, is an annual event celebrated in thousands of churches across over 50 countries to raise awareness and support for orphans and vulnerable children around the world. It is typically observed on the second Sunday in November.
The event originated in a local church in Zambia, where an American visitor, Gary Schneider, was inspired by the community’s response to a pastor’s call to care for orphans in a community affected by AIDS, poverty, and hunger.
The purpose of Pure Religion Sunday is to encourage churches and communities to stand up for orphans, raise awareness about their needs, and mobilize support through prayer, fundraising, and advocacy. It also serves as an opportunity for churches to engage in activities such as sermons, fundraisers, and fostering initiatives.
This initiative has spread globally with help from Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO), and today, thousands of local churches and communities around the world rally together with one voice in response to God’s call to care for orphaned and vulnerable children. For more information and resources, go to CAFO’s Pure Religion website.
What can you do?
PRAY
Download a Pure Religion Sunday church bulletin.
Follow Lifesong Canada on Facebook or Instagram for an online prayer guide.
Pray for the students, teachers and staff at our Lifesong schools in Zambia.
Pray God would touch the hearts of families in your church to care for orphans and vulnerable children.
SPONSOR
Download an Sponsorship church bulletin.
Invite families from your church who sponsor a child to share their experiences.
Request sponsorship cards from Lifesong Canada to promote child sponsorship.
Set up a laptop/tablet for people to sign up online to sponsor a child.
VOLUNTEER
Pray for families in your church who foster or adopt.
Contact your local child welfare agency & ask about volunteer opportunities.
Find a family who has adopted and find ways to bless and support them.
Find a family is struggling with their children and ask how you can pray and support them.