Seventh-day Adventists affirm the right of every child to a happy and
stable home environment, and the freedom and support to grow up to be the
person God intended. In 1989, the United Nations General Assembly recognized
the fundamental importance of children by adopting the "Convention on the
Rights of the Child." In harmony with my of these lofty principles, and
considering the value Jesus placed on children when He said, "Let the children
come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such
as these" (Matt 19:14, NIV), we seek to aid children who suffer from the following
destructive influences:
Poverty, Illiteracy, Poor health care, Exploitation and vulnerability, and Violence
In response to the above issues and needs, Seventh-day Adventists stand
for the following rights of children:
1.) The right to a loving and stable home where there is safety and
freedom from abuse.
2.) The right to adequate food, clothing, and shelter.
3.) The right to proper health/medical care.
4.) The right to an education that prepares children for a positive role in
society by developing their personal potential and giving them earning
capacity.
5.) The right to a religious and moral education in the home and church.
6.) The right to freedom from discrimination and exploitation.
7.) The right to personhood, respect, and the development of positive
self-esteem.
