culture and traditions Archives

A Very Maasai Christmas

Pesi is wearing red and white tradtional clothing and is standing outside with trees in the background and is holding a Christmas gift.

Seven-year-old Pesi is part of the Child Sponsorship Program at a church in Kenya. She is also a member of the Maasai people. Every year since she can remember, her family has celebrated Christmas.

By: Kevin Ouma Categories: Advocacy, Child Sponsorship

What’s It Like To Go Shopping Around the World?

A smiling woman sits at a marketplace in Burkina Faso surrounded by fruits and vegetables on blankets.

If you think mall traffic is crazy where you live, you should check out the crowded markets in Tanzania! And you’ve never seen more beautiful produce than at the fruit stands in Burkina Faso. Take a stroll through some of the world’s busiest, most colorful markets and experience the wonder of how people in other cultures go shopping.

By: Kasey Huss Categories: Photos and Videos, Poverty 101

These Aren’t Your Mother’s Child’s Milestones

Whether they are from the United States, Brazil, the Philippines or Ghana, every child in the world has at least this one thing in common — they grow up! And as they do, according to their culture’s customs and traditions, they celebrate and memorialize certain rights of passage or milestones. These celebrations honor the transition from one stage of development to the next.

Abo (left, standing) is pushing Kanyaporn (right) on an Akha traditional celebration swing. They are wearing their traditional clothing and there are trees in the background.

How Local Churches Help Celebrate Local Traditions

Compassion works exclusively with local churches — and for good reason. We believe no global entity is more capable, caring and called to act on behalf of children in poverty than the Church. On top of this, local churches are often also at the center of festivals and local traditions that are crucial to the fabric of the unique culture in which they exist. So … let’s take a glimpse into how local churches around the world go above and beyond to make registered children feel loved, appreciated and protected.

Group of children dancing in a dirt field in a city.

Facts About Uganda: The Pearl of Africa

Uganda is home to bustling cities, breathtaking national parks and unique wildlife. And amid all its natural beauty, you’ll find even more beautiful people and culture. Learn some fun facts about Uganda that will help you get to know this vibrant and diverse country where nearly 126,000 Compassion-assisted children live.

Girl wearing a green dress and pink sandals and is sitting with a friend, wearing a white shirt, a red skirt and black sandals. They are sitting in one of the newly constructed classrooms of a Compassion center. The project tutor is in the front of the classroom, wearing a red plaid shirt and blue pants.

Facts About Nicaragua: The Land of Lakes and Volcanoes

Nicaragua is home to beautiful Caribbean beaches, active volcanoes and Central America’s largest lake. And amid its natural beauty, you’ll find even more beautiful people and culture. Learn some interesting facts about Nicaragua that will help you get to know this vibrant country where so many Compassion-assisted children live.

Four children are standing outside playing musical instruments and dancing. There are trees and tall grass behind them. The children are wearing traditional clothing.

Facts About Togo: A West African Treasure

Togo is a small West African country tucked in the midst of Ghana, Benin and Burkina Faso and bordered on the south by the Gulf of Guinea. Let’s learn some interesting facts about Togo – the home of over 66,000 Compassion-assisted children.

A smiling girl in traditional Mexican clothing

Facts About Mexico: Home of Ancient Civilizations, Stunning Landscapes and Vibrant Cultures

Mexico is a beautiful country found in southern North America. From its rugged, arid northern region to its tropical southern border, Mexico features diverse landscapes and cultures. Today we’d love to celebrate this wonderful country where over 58,000 Compassion-assisted children live! Here are some fun facts about Mexico.

Facts About Tanzania: The Land of Wonders

Tanzania is a stunning country found in East Africa along the Indian Ocean. We’d love to share some interesting facts about Tanzania that will teach you about its fascinating culture and traditions. Come travel with us to the country that nearly 100,000 Compassion-assisted children call home!

A girl in Brazil wears a Santa hat. She is smiling down at a candle. The room is dimly lit, and Christmas lights sparkle behind her.

10 of the Most Unique Christmas Traditions Around the World

Christmas traditions vary from family to family as well as culture to culture. Travel the world with us as we explore unique, quirky and wonderful Christmas traditions across the globe!

Compassion Peru's national director posting with children in front a church. The children are smiling and waving while wearing brightly colored clothing.

Facts About Peru: The Land of the Incas

Peru is a fascinating country found in South America. We’d love to share with you some interesting facts about Peru – the home of over 80,000 Compassion-assisted children. Come travel with us to the land of the ancient Incas and experience its rich cultures and traditions!

A boy in a white shirt and a straw hat with red trim is standing in front of two girls next to a chain link fence.

Facts About Honduras: The Land of Great Depths

Honduras is a stunning Central American nation that borders Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua. Learn some interesting facts about Honduras that will teach you about this fascinating country that is home to nearly 60,000 Compassion-assisted children!