New Year’s prayers for kids help children (and families) begin a new year with God. As a new year approaches, try these seven prayer stations. They’re a great way to invite families to pray for their community and thank God for all his blessings.
New Year’s Prayers for Kids: 7 Prayer Stations
Prayer Station 1: Out With the Old
First use this station to give thanks for the blessings of the year. Provide parchment-style paper for families to write down things they’ve been thankful for over the past year. Provide an old chest for families to place their prayers of thanksgiving inside before moving on to the next station.
Prayer Station 2: In With the New
Next, this station focuses on hopes and dreams for the upcoming year. Provide slips of paper and inflated balloons. Have families write about something they’re looking forward to in the upcoming year. Examples include a vacation, new baby, or a new learning milestone. Then have families bat their balloons in the air as they pray for God’s blessing of each family member’s high hopes for the new year. (Play this game inside so the balloons don’t fly away.)
Prayer Station 3: Neighborhood Watch
Provide a large map of the neighborhoods in your community. Have dot stickers for families to indicate where they live, then have them pray for their neighborhood. Display the map in a common area so church members will know you’ve cloaked their neighborhoods in prayer.
Prayer Station 4: Lead Me On
Display photos of your church staff and have families pray for them. Ask God for wisdom, protection, guidance, energy, and strength to lead in the upcoming year.
Prayer Station 5: Commander-in-Chief
Have an American flag at this area to remind families to pray for the president, their elected officials, and people serving in our nation’s military.
