Who and Whose Are We?

Nine doctrines for a theology of child advocacy

In this chapter in her book, Thus Far on the Way: Toward a Theology of Child Advocacy, the Rev. Dr. Eileen W. Lindner presents nine constructs or doctrines that speak particularly to the ministry of child advocacy:

1. All children are created in the image of God.
2. The doctrine of justice calls the church to find its voice on behalf of children.
3. The church is called to honor the doctrine of mercy by tempering justice with mercy and forgiveness.
4. The Peaceable Kingdom requires that we live together in harmony and forgiveness.
5. The doctrine of incarnation, a centerpiece for child advocacy, recognizes that God came to us as a vulnerable, needy child.
6. The doctrine of the preferential option for the poor lifts up God's special affection for the poor.
7. The doctrine of the primacy of children is revealed in Jesus' own life and ministry. Jesus put children first and exemplified a preference for the most vulnerable of the vulnerable.
8. The doctrine of love, a unique gift of the gospel, calls us to love all of God's children, particularly those who have not been loved enough or are not seemingly loveable.
9. The church as the Body of Christ is called to tend the flock of Jesus, serving children and their families.

During the month of April, plan a study of the book. Encourage participants to reflect on a theology of child advocacy in the light of how they might be called to respond to child abuse and neglect in your community.

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