speak up

Speaking up is one of the ways we as Christ followers can influence how families are seen, cared for, and supported. Churches have trusted voices in communities and can use existing moments of preaching and teaching to share the opportunity of the First Thousand Days (FTD). You can grow your church members heart and awareness around this through making regularly use of the many opportunities to share/preach/talk about God’s heart for children, such as baby dedications, celebrating births, preaching, testimonies. You can also speak up outside of your church gatherings, in fraternal meeting or on social media where you can make public comments about God’s heart for children and the role of church.

“In our sermons we have included First Thousand Day teachings so that our members and congregants understand the type of love, care and need mothers require.”

Reverend Masilo Marumo

Speaking Up resources for church leaders

Understanding FTD

Having a good understanding of the First Thousand Days, or FTD, is important in shaping how you walk with families and their children.

FTD-Friendly Churches - Tools

This is a collection of resources and tools that you can use or adjust for your context – all aimed at helping you make your church more friendly to families with young children.

Guide for Church Leaders

This step-by-step guide is for pastors and church leaders, outlining how to take their church on a journey of becoming FTD-friendly.

Speaking up resources for families in the FTD

There are many Issues facing families and children in the First Thousand Days – that as the local church you can Speak Up about – be the voice for the voiceless – and support others around you. Use your social media to repost Sikunye messaging to spread awareness.

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.9 Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”

(NIV) Proverbs 31:8-10 (NIV)