This weekend churches, organisations and groups across the world are taking part in the 2013 World Weekend of Prayer for Children at Risk. The initiative, which began in 1995, is held every year on the first weekend of June. 

During the two days, hundreds of thousands of Christians from over 40 nations will gather in prayer marches, church services and special events to pray for vulnerable children.

This year, the World Weekend of Prayer (WWP) is highlighting difficult issues many families face today and how children growing up in struggling, broken or absent families are particularly vulnerable.

Alliance member Viva, the Christian charity organising the campaign, is calling for Christians to pray that children everywhere will know the hope, protection, encouragement and healing of God's love in their family lives.

"We've been really encouraged to see how national and international churches, organisations and volunteers have stepped up to help in different stages," says Andy Dipper, chief executive at Viva. "Thanks to volunteers, the resources have been translated into 21 languages too."

"It's is a hugely important and inspiring global event," says Rev Stephen Gaukroger, Viva's patron and director of Clarion International. "It strengthens the profile of the amazing work being done with children at risk. It unites Christians from a variety of different cultures as they pray together for children in need. And most importantly it makes a difference – God answers the prayers of His people."

Last year, more than 800 churches participated in the WWP; 6,250 children and adults in Costa Rica took to the streets in a prayer march; and children in Uganda found the strength to forgive those who had abused or harmed them through learning the Lord's Prayer.

Rev Gaukroger added: "God's people who are involved in Viva and its partner networks rely on His wisdom every day to face head-on the many challenges of keeping children safe and well and in helping them fulfil their God-given potential."

More information and free prayer resources for churches, small groups and Sunday Schools can be found at www.viva.org/wwp