Thursday, November 20, 2014

The Rights of the Child

Today is the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child and a celebration honoring that event is being held in Geneva, Switzerland, at the Palais Wilson.  Since the signing of that document, religious orders, churches NGO's and other non-church affiliated agencies; and individuals have been trying to raise awareness of the exploitation of children around the globe.  In some areas there has been success, especially with regard to child labor and unhealthy, unsafe working conditions and trafficking,  but the problem persists, even in our own country, in dysfunctional families. Child abuse is notorious and seems to be in the headlines constantly, not to forget the ultimate disregard for the rights of the unborn aborted child. No matter how much we protest "it's for the children", gross abuses continue.
Our prayer today might center on global enlightenment regarding the rights of children, and inspiration for ways to help reduce it in our local communities.  Our Social Awareness and Justice classes have a prime opportunity to raise awareness of the problem and motivate students to do what they can to alleviate it.  Church and community agencies can do the same with adults.  As I examine my own life, I can ask myself how much I know about it, and look into what I as an individual can do.
Bro. Rene

No comments:

Post a Comment