THE media has recently been full of stories of children and young people who offend. School holidays bring to the forefront those for whom being a nuisance becomes a leisure activity. Our televisions show Supernanny and Little Angels, reminding us of the responsibilities we have, not only to our own children, but also to all children that we come into contact with.
Our commitment must surely be greater when we consider the evidence in Channel 4's Kill Me If You Can and Kids Behind Bars. I am horrified to hear such expressions as "lock them up and throw away the key" and to hear parents blamed, without adequate understanding or support. The internet and loss of close communities are just two of the reasons why growing up today can be difficult.
Jesus had plenty of time for children and was very much a man of his own era. So, if Jesus was here today, I'm sure he'd be up to date with his mouse and his webcam, if only to support those young people around him. He has no hands and feet on earth but ours, so let us not forget that we do have responsibilities to love and support, but not to reject.
Clare Griffiths, chaplain, Malvern Girls' College.
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