On May 5th, Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary and Nazarene Compassionate Ministries joined a collaborative, national effort called, “4/14 Window Pilipinas” to address the needs of children. The event brought together denominations, ministries, and community organizations from across the Philippines to take a meaningful look at the current state of Filipino Children and rally for their integral place in society and church.
The “4/14 Window” refers to the demographic group of people between the ages of 4 and 14. It is this section of society that is often the most receptive and open to spiritual and developmental input. 4/14 Window Pilipinas hopes to inspire churches to prioritize Children in their ministries and to serve holistically amongst this powerful demographic, intentionally discipling them for life-long faith.
Philippine Field Strategy Coordinator for the Church of the Nazarene, Rev. Steven Gualberto addressed the group highlighting the current rising statistics of poverty, trafficking and exploitation of children in the Philippines, appealing for a greater Christian response. Gualberto states that he hopes that this event will engage the church in assessing the critical issues facing the children and youth in its community so that it can create ministries to meet the needs of children and youth.
The event aimed for a meaningful collaboration of different church ministries to help integrate children and youth into the faith community for intentional discipleship. A broad, multi-sectoral audience of 13 local churches, 3 ministries, 7 denominations, 2 educational institutions, 8 community development agencies, and 8 groups from the literature and business sector collaborated in round-table discussions on Philippine child advocacy.
APNTS and NCM Philippines are proud to join with 4/14 Window Pilipinas and see a strong potential in filipino children and young people as resources for the holistic transformation of their world. The coalition challenged churches to come together and fight for the protection and holistic development of children in our churches and societies; For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.
Jarrett Davis
APNTS Communications Officer
