Title: God’s Heart for Child Protection and Safeguarding: Practical Theology from Global Perspectives
Editors: Nativity A. Petallar, Roseline Olumbe and Martin Munyao
Imprint: Langham Global Library
Description
In the New Testament, Jesus is explicit in communicating God’s heart for children. Yet what does it look like for that heart to encounter the contextual realities of life in the twenty-first century where children facing abuse remains a persistent global crisis?
Exploring the biblical and theological basis for child protection and safeguarding, this book raises awareness of the often-ignored reality of child abuse in churches and Christian organisations. Contributors from across the globe do not shy away from the most challenging aspects of exploitation, and encourage readers to develop attitudes of advocacy for the most vulnerable members of our society. Addressing issues such as gender-based violence, child trafficking, online sexual exploitation, child marriage, domestic and family violence, fostering and adoption, inclusion care for disabilities and special needs, amongst others, the authors offer practical tools developed from lived experiences. This exceptional resource is a provoking call to action for the children who face abuse, and opens our eyes to the truth that safeguarding is not an optional extra for Christians, but a gospel imperative.
Endorsements
This book is a timely and spirit-led resource that clearly reflects God’s heart for the protection, dignity, and flourishing of every child.
Ezekiel M. Baraza
Scripture Union Kenya
Rooted in the lived experience and diverse perspectives of its global contributors, this powerful collection addresses real challenges to spur action and advocacy for both the protection of the vulnerable and the healing of survivors.
Alan Charter
Global Children’s Forum
This book serves as a vital wake-up call, urging the global church to be aware of the issues, but to also move beyond awareness into prayerful action so that every child may flourish.
Sheryl Grunwald, PhD
Action International Ministries
This is an urgently needed resource to challenge and equip the Christian church to stand up for children and youth and protect them.
Nell Becker Sweeden
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries
Holding theological depth and practical wisdom together, this necessary and profound book reminds us that safeguarding is not an added programme, but a true measure of faithfulness.
Bradley Thompson, PhD
World Vision International
