July 1, 2024

Faith-Based Healing for Orphans: The Healing Power of Prayer

In the face of adversity and loss, orphaned children often grapple with profound emotional wounds that can impact their well-being, sense of belonging, and even their view of God. However, through prayer and meditation on Scripture, orphans can find emotional healing and inner strength that helps them work through their traumatic pasts.

In the second installment of our ”Faith-Based Healing for Orphans” blog series, we’re discussing the healing power of prayer.

The Healing Power of Prayer

At the heart of this faith-based healing journey lies prayer. In the quiet moments of prayer, these children discover a profound truth—they are not alone. Their cries reach the ears of a loving Father who yearns to comfort them in their pain. Through prayer, they find solace in knowing that their struggles are seen, their fears are understood, and their burdens are shared.

Prayer provides a safe space for vulnerability—an essential component of healing. In the presence of their heavenly Father, these children can lay bare their deepest wounds, knowing they are met with love and acceptance. It is in this vulnerability that true healing begins to take root.

Meditation on Scripture

Similarly, the practice of meditating on Scripture offers a source of strength and guidance in the face of adversity. Within the pages of the Bible, these children discover a tapestry of stories of triumph over tragedy and resilience in the midst of despair. 

From the tale of Joseph, who rose from the depths of betrayal to the heights of power, to the courage of David, who faced down giants, the Scriptures are full of narratives of hope and redemption.

Through the lens of Scripture, orphans can reframe their own stories, shifting from a narrative of victimhood to one of victory. They find assurance in the promises of restoration and God’s unwavering faithfulness.

The Impact of Prayer and Scripture

Recent research underscores the transformative power of prayer and Scripture in the lives of orphaned children. Studies have shown that those who engage in regular prayer and meditation exhibit higher levels of resilience and adaptive coping strategies, enabling them to navigate the complexities of their healing journey with greater ease.

Likewise, anecdotal evidence provided by the children raised in The Boaz Project’s partner homes shows that the outcomes for orphans brought up in a loving, Christ-centered environment where prayer and Scripture reading are included every day are drastically better than for most orphans in the nations where we work.

In the midst of trauma and loss, faith-based healing offers a pathway to resilience and restoration. Through the healing power of prayer and Scripture, orphaned children can discover the strength to rise above their circumstances and forge a path toward emotional healing and wholeness. 

As they embark on this journey, guided by the nurture and testimony of their caregivers, their futures are transformed, filled with the promise of redemption and renewal.

Find your role in orphan care to save abandoned children around the globe.

With over 25 years of experience and a network of like-minded people around the globe, The Boaz Project can help you show Christ’s love to scared and abandoned children.


To learn how you can help save orphaned children from life on the streets—connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or visit our website here.

14 Comments

  1. Jen says:

    Love hearing about the healing power of prayer and daily scripture reading. It’s interesting, but not surprising about how the study showed it builds resilience and adaptive coping techniques as with God at the center, all things are possible, even healing from the deepest hurts. Inspires me to keep my life centered in prayer as well!

  2. Alayna says:

    This blog post is so very inspiring!!! There is so much power in prayer, especially to see it being taught in a different culture is just as beautiful. The words being spoken and brought to life through the Bible is just as beautiful! I love how the kids know where to go when in need of help. It is only through the blood of Jesus that can help us and to save us from this fallen world. Thank you Jesus for you are always listening and always guiding us into the right direction.

  3. Alayna says:

    This blog post is so very inspiring!!! There is so much power in prayer, especially to see it being taught in a different culture is just as beautiful. The words being spoken and brought to life through the Bible is just as beautiful! I love how the kids know where to go when in need of help. It is only through the blood of Jesus that can help us and to save us from this fallen world. Thank you Jesus for you are always listening and always guiding us into the right direction.

  4. Anonymous says:

    I appreciate seeing a post on such an important topic. Prayer is a psychological need for humans of any creed, and our great Father knew the benefits that would be handed down to us through it’s consistent use. It establishes a unity of purpose within our minds, and subjects our pride to the humbleness of understanding that there is One Above.

  5. Anonymous says:

    I love when studies echo what we know as followers of Christ – that prayer and time in the Word are vital for our growth. And to hear that it has a profound effect on the most traumatized people in the world is a wonderful thing.

  6. Shyla Armour says:

    I loved reading this information and learning how the power of prayer is transforming the mental healing of the orphans so they can “reframe their own stories, shifting from a narrative of victimhood to one of victory.”

  7. Lucinda says:

    What an inspiration to all. So amazing what prayer can do in all our lives.

  8. Such great confirmation for me and what I am doing with women who are healing from past hurts and trauma, so wonderful to make the connection now and be able to advocate for children as well. People need to become more aware of faith based healing, love the highlight that prayer and meditation are key!

  9. Lynn P says:

    Prayers echo in this world. I pray that the echoing of our prayers continue to bring a brighter future for these children. I pray that many more children are placed in this mission.

  10. Sarah says:

    Such a great reminder that through prayer and meditation on Scripture, we can find healing for any hurt, disappointment, fear, or whatever else may be burdening our hearts. God so cares for each of us and will meet us right where we are to bring healing, hope and renewal.

  11. Heave says:

    The Word of God is the foundation of everything, for the Word is God Himself. I believe that prayer and the Word of God restore new hope in life and bring revival even when things seem not to be working or moving. I pray that the Word of God will continue to bring renewed hope and light into the lives of these children.

  12. This story truly touched my heart. The way prayer, faith, and compassion come together to bring healing to orphans is nothing short of inspiring. It’s a beautiful testimony of how God’s love moves through people to restore lives and renew hope. The message encourages all of us to be vessels of healing—showing that even the smallest act of faith can have a powerful impact on others.

  13. Sussy Akumu says:

    The story is very encouraging because prayers or praying is the only way to communicate to our maker for us to get and meet our needs.When we give thanks and pray in faith, we have that assurance from God that He hears our request .

  14. Nikki Ryding says:

    The power of prayer and our Almighty God never ceases to amaze me. No amount of human striving to fix brokenness can compare to the healing power of our Father! These children are held by Him and I pray they continue to draw near Him as they navigate these hardships.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Read more from our blog.

Because God knew that abandoned children would need help to survive, He tells us to actively meet the needs of orphans in James 1:27.

If you also feel the weight of this responsibility and the desire to make a real difference, consider partnering with us. Through our innovative in-home care model, specialized caregiver training, and humanitarian aid, you’ll help children not just survive—but truly thrive.

When you choose to partner with The Boaz Project, you'll restore hope, ensure a brighter future through education, and share the love of Jesus with children who desperately need it.

Just imagine the impact you can have—from saving a child from the horrors of the streets to helping them become community leaders, educators, and nurturers of the next generation.

Join the James 1:27 Circle Membership

Name
Address

Get Prayer Updates & News

What does an orphan mission trip include?

  • Hotel accommodations
  • In-country transportation
  • Application support and fees for your Visa
  • In-country language assistance
  • All meals in-country
  • Ministry curriculum and supplies
  • Cross-cultural training and preparation
  • Trip insurance
  • International medical insurance
  • Fundraising assistance

Apply for a mission trip.

Orphan Advocate Training Certification Courses and FAQs

Required Courses for Certification:
Fundamentals of Orphan Advocacy

This self-paced course serves as the primary course for our orphan advocate training certification. By taking this course, you will:

  • gain a basic understanding of orphan advocacy and why it matters
  • learn practical, real-life ways to support orphans and make a difference
  • understand best practices for orphan care based on years of experience
  • discover how to use your voice to advocate for vulnerable children
  • join other like-minded people working together for good


Assisting Orphans: Helping Orphans in Their Need

This course highlights The Boaz Project’s foundational area of impact—assisting orphans. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the global orphan crisis, the urgent needs of vulnerable children, and the real difference you can make by stepping into their stories.

Every number tells a heartbreaking truth:

  • Over 153 million children worldwide are considered orphans.*
  • Millions live in institutions or on the streets, without the consistent care of a loving adult.
  • Many suffer from trauma, neglect, and exploitation, leaving lasting scars that only intentional care can begin to heal.

This course offers more than information—it equips you to take action grounded in compassion and wisdom.

Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Orphan Advocacy must be completed before enrolling.


Supporting Caregivers: Upholding Caregivers as They Serve Orphans

Continue your advocacy journey by learning to support and strengthen the caregivers serving orphans daily.

Through powerful stories, practical tools, and proven methods, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to make a lasting difference in their lives and the lives of the children they love.

Join us and become a source of strength for those on the front lines of orphan care.

Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Orphan Advocacy must be completed before enrolling.


Engaging Others: Using Your Voice for Orphans

The orphan crisis is real—but getting involved is easier than you think. The Boaz Project offers a variety of simple, meaningful ways for you to make an impact and inspire others to do the same.

As you discover God’s heart for orphans, you’ll be equipped to engage in ministry, advocate effectively, and mobilize your community. From sharing resources to starting conversations, you’ll learn to be a strong voice for the voiceless.

You don’t have to do everything—just do something.

Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Orphan Advocacy must be completed before enrolling.


Becoming Certified: Impacting Orphans with Ongoing Advocacy

As the final course in The Boaz Project’s Orphan Advocacy Certification series, this capstone experience builds on the foundation laid in the Fundamentals, Assisting, Supporting, and Engaging courses. You’ll combine everything you’ve learned and apply it through personal reflection, skills development, and Bible study—all designed to solidify your calling and prepare you for continued impact.

This course doesn’t just complete your certification—it launches you into ongoing opportunities to influence lives, support caregivers, and advocate for vulnerable children with wisdom and confidence.

Become a certified orphan advocate.
Be ready to make a difference that lasts.

Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Orphan Advocacy, Assisting Orphans: Helping Orphans in Their Need, Supporting Caregivers: Upholding Caregivers as They Serve Orphans, and Engaging Others: Using Your Voice for Orphans must be completed before enrolling.

FAQs
Do I have to live near Greenwood, Indiana to complete the training?

No! This certification was intentionally created to allow opportunities for anyone in the United States to participate fully.




How much of a time commitment is it?

This is completely up to you. The entire process is self-directed. There are no deadlines, and you may take as much or as little time as you need to complete each course.




Can I do this training with my spouse? Or a friend?

Yes! Going through the training with a spouse or friend can provide accountability and motivation. As you progress, you may be able to accomplish more together!




How much will it cost?

All Orphan Advocate Training courses are free to join! While you may choose to spend money while completing some projects, there are only minimal costs involved (such as a book or a few supplies) depending on which course you choose to do.




Is there an age requirement to become a Certified Orphan Advocate Trainee?

This would be answered on a case-by-case basis. This would also be open to middle schoolers or high schoolers looking to complete volunteer hours (i.e. National Honor Society) or build college applications. We always encourage young people to be involved if they feel led by God to do so!




What if I don’t have any social media accounts?

We will adjust your requirements to accommodate you and provide different opportunities to engage.




If I complete the Orphan Advocate Training Certification, can I put it on my resume or LinkedIn profile?

Yes! When you complete all of the courses required to become certified, you will receive a final certificate and you will be able to use the title "Certified Orphan Advocate".




Will I be able to get a signed letter to verify my volunteer hours?

We are sorry that we cannot verify volunteer hours that are done outside of the office or an event due to the fact that these hours are not supervised. However, we can write about the quality of work that was done, your commitment level, and the training courses achieved. We can also say that your self-reported, unsupervised hours fit into the typical number of hours that are usual for that course.




How do I get started?

If you would like to begin Orphan Advocate Training Certification begin by completing the registration form. Make sure to select the Certification course. You will then be assigned an OAT Coach. Once your coach reviews your information, he/she will send you an email with your next steps!




Who do I contact if I have any other questions?

Please complete the form below or contact OAT@boazproject.org with any questions.

FAQ

Do I have to live near Greenwood, Indiana to complete the training?

No! This certification was intentionally created to allow opportunities for anyone in the United States to participate fully.




How much of a time commitment is it?

This is completely up to you. The entire process is self-directed. There are no deadlines, and you may take as much or as little time as you need to complete each course.




Can I do this training with my spouse? Or a friend?

Yes! Going through the training with a spouse or friend can provide accountability and motivation. As you progress, you may be able to accomplish more together!




How much will it cost?

All Orphan Advocate Training courses are free to join! While you may choose to spend money while completing some projects, there are only minimal costs involved (such as a book or a few supplies) depending on which course you choose to do.




Is there an age requirement to become a Certified Orphan Advocate Trainee?

This would be answered on a case-by-case basis. This would also be open to middle schoolers or high schoolers looking to complete volunteer hours (i.e. National Honor Society) or build college applications. We always encourage young people to be involved if they feel led by God to do so!




What if I don’t have any social media accounts?

We will adjust your requirements to accommodate you and provide different opportunities to engage.




If I complete the Orphan Advocate Training Certification, can I put it on my resume or LinkedIn profile?

Yes! When you complete each level, you will receive a certification that you can use to enhance your professional profile and to show involvement in community service.




Will I be able to get a signed letter to verify my volunteer hours?

We are sorry that we cannot verify volunteer hours that are done outside of the office or an event due to the fact that these hours are not supervised. However, we can write about the quality of work that was done, your commitment level, and the training courses achieved. We can also say that your self-reported, unsupervised hours fit into the typical number of hours that are usual for that course.




How do I get started?

If you think you would like to begin Orphan Advocate Training, please complete the registration form, and you’ll be assigned an OAT Coach. Once your coach reviews your information, he/she will send you an email with your next steps!




Who do I contact if I have any other questions?

Please complete the form below or contact OAT@boazproject.org with any questions.

Event Sponsorship Levels

  Friend of the Cause
$1,000
Beacon of Hope
$2,500
Champion of Children
$5,000
Legacy Partner
$10,000
Name included on sponsor signage at event entry
Logo displayed on the back of the Order of Events  
Recognition on event tables  
Verbal recognition during the program  

Urgent Needs & Announcements

This is the heading.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.

This is the heading.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.

Join our Prayer Team

Stay informed about our upcoming short-term mission trips.

Name(Required)
Countries of Interest:(Required)

FAQ

Who is this course for?

Anyone with a heart to help vulnerable children—whether you’re just beginning or looking for ways to deepen your impact.




How can I get my questions answered as I progress through the course?

A dedicated coach will be available to support you as much or as little as you need.




Can I do this course with friends or with my small group?

Absolutely! We can offer you and your friends the chance to be a cohort and work through the course together with a dedicated coach to support your group.




How long does the course take?

The course is self-paced, allowing you to learn at your convenience. Including the 3 hours of video/audio/live content, this course can take approximately 10-15 hours to complete.




What does it cost?

Nothing! The course is completely free because we believe advocacy should be accessible to everyone.




How do I sign up?

Just click Register Now and start making a difference!

Orphan Advocate Training Registration

Thank you for joining The Boaz Project in advocating for orphans. Once we receive your completed registration, we will reach out soon with the next steps, so keep an eye on your inbox. We can’t wait to support you!

Name(Required)
NOTE: Please make sure to check your "spam" folder for the confirmation email.
Address(Required)
Time Zone(Required)
Which course are you applying to?(Required)