Empowering Children

Empowering Children is an informative book for anyone passionate about helping kids grow in their faith and build up their peers and communities. Dr. Ravi Jayakaran's practical tools and heartfelt insights show how to amplify children's voices, nurture their creativity, and help them live out their God-given potential. As someone committed to empowering under-18s to use their unique skills and local context to share the gospel and disciple others, I found this book both inspiring and incredibly practical. It is a must-read book for those interested in empowering children to be active participants in fulfilling the Great Commission and, more importantly, in developing an active relationship with God. -Pearl Ganta, Filmmaker, Catalyst, Lausanne Children and Family Network If we exclude children, we all lose. Jesus's disciples discovered this when they prevented children coming to him, and they were rebuked for their actions. Jesus's words are unambiguous: ""Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them."" The work that many churches and Christian NGOs do for millions of children around the world is amazing and life-changing. However, when it comes to inviting children into deeper participation, truly listening to their voices, inviting them to shape programs, and involving them in decision-making, there are far too few examples of good practice. Most of us have a lot to learn to do better at working with children. Ravi Jayakaran's book is therefore an important one, and it stands out as a highly practical toolkit. I encourage all who want to work with children to read it and put it into practice. Genuine, safe, and meaningful child participation is vitally important and will result in a more effective church, deeper transformation in the lives of individual children, and greater impact in communities. -Phil Green, Chief Executive, Viva Dr. Jayakaran's passion for the principles of child participation is deeply rooted in a biblical view of children. This view allows him to celebrate and affirm the worth and respect for every child's voice-from the most educated to the most marginalized and exploited. This is a must-read for anyone desiring a strong link to the children with whom they minister. -Phyllis Kilbourn, PhD, Founder and International Director, Crisis Care Training International