April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Every April, communities across the country observe National Child Abuse Prevention Month—a time to raise awareness of the impacts of abuse and neglect, recognize the importance of healthy family systems, and recommit to protecting children and supporting those who care for them.

At Trinity, this call is deeply connected to our values of building belonging and becoming, especially for those most vulnerable. As the month comes to a close, we pause to reflect on how our faith invites us to take action, offer care, and ensure safety for all children.

📖 Scripture

“Taking a child, he placed it in their midst, and putting his arms around it he said to them, ‘Whoever receives one child such as this in my name, receives me; and whoever receives me, receives not me but the One who sent me.’”—Mark 9:36–37

Jesus’ words and actions place children at the very heart of the Kingdom. Welcoming and receiving a child is a sacred act—an embodiment of receiving Christ himself. This scripture reminds us that our treatment of the youngest among us reflects our relationship with God.

🙏 Prayer

God of refuge and tenderness, You formed each child in love and intention. Help us to be people who protect, nurture, and lift up the children in our midst. Grant strength to families, wisdom to advocates, and healing to all who carry wounds from childhood. May our churches, schools, homes, and neighborhoods be places where every child is safe, supported, and known. In the name of Jesus, who welcomed the children, Amen.

🤝 Action

As people of faith, we are called not only to pray but to act. This week, consider:

• Learning how to recognize and respond to signs of abuse or neglect

• Supporting a local organization that works with children or families in crisis

• Offering care or encouragement to parents, teachers, and caregivers

• Advocating for policies that protect children and promote safe, nurturing environments

Let our community be a place where every child is received with love, care, and respect.

📚 Resources

• Prevent Child Abuse America – National network committed to preventing abuse before it occurs

• Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families – State-level resources and reporting information

• Child Mind Institute – Tools for supporting mental health in children and teens