17th June 2026

UNICEF's  Children’s Climate Risk Report, published yesterday,  warns that half of world’s children exposed to at least three climate hazards. Children across the world face increasing threats from heatwaves, storms, floods and droughts. According to UNICEF, more than one billion children are experiencing at least three of these hazards at the same time.  Video released by the UN agency shows children in Papua New Guinea swimming across a crocodile inhabited river to get to school after heavy rains washed away a footbridge and has not been not replaced. The youngest children are give priority in the small number of boats available. The report states that almost every child around the world, including those from high-income countries, is now exposed to at least one climate hazard, while 123,000 experience more than six in their lifetimes. In Italy, for example, more than 6 million children are exposed to prolonged heatwaves and drought. UNICEF’s executive director, Catherine Russell, said: “The lives of children continue to be upended by the impact of heatwaves, wildfires, droughts, and floods. Half of the world’s children are now living with at least three overlapping climate threats shaping their daily lives.”

You can access the full report or the executive summary here.

Loving God, how is it that we continue to hear that we should drill for more oil and add to the greenhouses gases that push global temperatures ever higher?  How is it that vital infrastructure is not replaced when damaged so that children can get to school safely? Why is it that the climate crises is such a low priority for so many governments around the world?  Creator God forgive us that we have taken little care of the world and that we care little for those who suffer every day as a consequence.  Move among the leaders of nations and global corporations that they will understand the impact of the cliamte crisis on people now. May they seek to take urgent action to prevent global temperatures rising further and to ensure all communities are supported in mitigating the present effects of our negligence and inactions in the past. Loving God help us to treasure your creation and cherish all life upon the planet. In Jesus' name we pray.  Amen.  

Abilene is a city in Texas, USA. It is anticipating another very hot summer with temperatures around 40 degrees C, or higher. The local Salvation Army is prioritizing early intervention efforts designed to reduce heat-related emergencies and connect community members with vital resources before conditions intensify. Crystal Blackraven, case management supervisor for the Salvation Army of Abilene, commented on the rising temperatures. “Every year, it kind of goes up a little bit more. I’ve noticed a steady increase,” Crystal said. “I anticipate that this summer we’ll see more people who won't be turning on their air conditioner because of the financial burden.”  “One of the things we’re working on right now", said Crystal, "is making sure we get hydration resources out to our partners so they can place them directly into the hands of individuals who need them. We also work to ensure that anyone who comes in can be connected with those resources and referred to the appropriate community partner. We have cooling stations that are open throughout the day, and we want to make sure that people know where those are and when they’re available. We also want to ensure that everyone is aware of the resources that are open during the weekends. We aim to make sure that anyone who may not have traditional proof of residency is still able to access assistance as well.” 

Father of all,  we give you thanks and praise,

that when we were still far off

you met us in your Son and brought us home.

Dying and living, he declared your love,

gave us grace, and opened the gate of glory.

May we who are Christ's body on earth

live his risen life;

may we who have life through faith in him

bring life to others;

may we whom the Spirit lights

give light to the world.

Keep us firm in the hope you have set before us,

so we and all your children shall be free,

and the whole earth live to praise your name;

through Christ our Lord, Amen.

Prayer from the Church of England Alternative Service Book, adjusted.