World Day Observance in Costa Rica

Activity Recap

The Global Network of Religions for Children brought together representatives of civil society, national organizations and different faith-based communities in Alajuela, Costa Rica. The World Day activity raised awareness, informed and proposed the transformation of society for children and youth whose human rights are hard hit by social, economic, political and cultural violence.

The Day of Prayer and Action for Children in Costa Rica took place at the Presbyterian church in Guacimo, Alajuela. Over 70 children and 80 adults participated, from 7 faith-based communities: Presbyterians, Baptists, Methodists, Lutherans, Pentecostals, Catholics, Episcopals, and the House of Light project, with young mothers and their children also sharing in the program.

There were cultural presentations, artistic expression and prayers offered by the adolescents. There was a forum on violence, and the best way to treat children. Speakers were Albert Quinones of World Vision Costa Rica and Alexander Cabezas of “Viva Juntos por la Ninez,” who presented his book about discipline during child-rearing.

Other activities included a forum discussion and a workshop with the children who shared their experiences and contributed their ideas on the issue of violence. They also used their conclusions and created posters which were presented to the plenary. There were refreshments and the activity concluded with a period of prayer and an act of thanksgiving to conclude with a luncheon.

Written Alexander Cabezas