Children's Network
When some 800 evangelicals from eleven countries came together in London in 1846 to form the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA), the well-being of children was one of the key concerns they sought to address. At that time, they focused on the widespread child labor in society and its tragic impact especially on poor families. Today, the WEA together with its partners are engaged in a variety of issues, ranging from discipleship and raising children in faith, to education and youth leadership, to social issues related to children-at-risk, such as domestic violence, orphans, unaccompanied minors and child trafficking, among others.
Love
According to Scripture, it is foundational for parents to consider children as God’s blessing (Psalm 127:3) and a precious gift entrusted to their care. This is the premise for a healthy parent-child relationship.
Protect
Children are vulnerable and in need of protection as they grow up and learn to become independent: protection from harm and protection from people and influences that can lead them astray.
Guide
Proverbs 22:6 encourages parents to “start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” Parents are the primary disciplers of their children and the example they will follow.
Empower
In order for children to ultimately stand on their own feet, they need to be empowered along the way, starting from a young age. Helping them make decisions appropriate for their age will allow them to learn from their mistakes and take responsibility for their own lives.
Serving All Children
The Church is called not only to care for their own but to care for all children – spiritually, emotionally and physically. In His call to live justly, God often reminds His people to care for the orphans, which are the most vulnerable of all children. Living out faith in our loving God includes reaching out to and caring for physical and spiritual orphans, giving new hope and a future to the abandoned and hopeless.