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NCC/CWS General Assembly Adopts Policy on "The Church and Children" November 11, 2004, St. Louis -- The 2004 General Assembly of the National Council of Churches USA and Church World Service today adopted a comprehensive policy statement on children, its first about children that was not focused on a particular issue. Entitled "The Church and Children: Vision and Goals for the 21st Century," the policy statement passed unanimously and represents a holistic view of childhood and the diversity of children's gifts and needs. "This is the first policy statement specifically about 'children.' In the past most of our work on behalf of children has been around specific issues like childcare, health care or public schools," said Anne Tuohy, Chair of the Committee for Justice for Children and Their Families. Tuohy -- who is also a consultant for The Episcopal Church, one of the NCC's member communions -- said that this is a genuine statement of values and added that the new policy "reinforces our commitment to families...and recognizes that all human life is sacred and every child is created in the image of God and is a gift." The statement sets forth a vision and goals for children that include being part of nurturing faith communities, safe and loving families, and physically and emotionally safe environments. In addition the policy also states that children have a right to quality public education; guaranteed, quality, comprehensive health care; access to food, clothing and transportation, and safe, affordable housing. According to the statement, "How we value and respect children reflects who we are and the kind of world in which we want to live. We call on all members of the NCCCUSA to be intentional and vigorous in assuming this responsibility for all children, God's children." "The Church is in a unique position to proclaim God's blessing and justice for children," says the statement. While this is not the first time that the Council has acted on behalf of children, "The Church and Children" vision statement is based on a theological imperative and biblical mandate to care for children and incorporates new information about brain and child development. Rev. Dr. Robert W. Edgar, the NCC's General Secretary, said, "This action reinforces our long-term commitment to children - all children. It is our responsibility to care for all the children in our communities and having this policy makes a bold statement about our continued efforts to fight on their behalf." -end- Media
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