Since 2004, churches across the country have shown their commitment to supporting the most vulnerable populations in their communities through Stand Sunday—a globally recognized day of prayer for children and families involved in foster care. This year, CASA for the Cross Timbers Area is joining alongside them.
Although traditionally observed on the second Sunday of November during National Adoption Month, churches host Stand Sunday on various days and in various ways.
“It takes a community to care for children, and that’s what these places of worship are – a community,” said Mindy Wooley, executive director of CASA for the Cross Timbers Area. “Our hope is to inform all the diverse faith organizations in our area on ways they can make a difference for the children in foster care in the Cross Timbers Area.”
Children come into foster care when their families are in crisis, and are sometimes placed in foster homes far away from everyone and everything they know and love. Though they have done nothing to deserve it, they face the risk of negative outcomes like homelessness, substance use, and incarceration.
Stand Sunday began in 2002 in Brownwood, when the pastor of a small church called upon the people in his congregation to stand up for children and families impacted by the child welfare system. Today, Stand Sunday, along with international focus day, Orphan Sunday, is observed in over 120 countries.
In addition to praying for these children and their families on Stand Sunday, Wooley explained that faith organizations can make a difference by partnering with CASA for the Cross Timbers Area and encouraging members to become CASA volunteers.
While Stand Sunday is sponsored by a Christian organization, CASA for the Cross Timbers Area encourages all people and groups to get involved in supporting these children and families.
“Whether you’re religious or not, and whether you practice prayer or not, we hope you will think of children in foster care on Stand Sunday,” Wooley said. “We also hope you’ll consider ways you can support these children and their families, like becoming a CASA volunteer.”
For more information on Stand Sunday, visit www. standsunday.com. For more information on the work of CASA volunteers and to get involved, visit www.casacta.org. The next CASA 101 Information Session is scheduled for November 9 at noon or 5:30 PM at 1385 N. Graham Street in Stephenville. You can also attend the class virtually by registering your participation at www. casacta.org/info.