Churches examine smacking from within non violence tradition

[Dave Roberts]

The Churches’ Network for Non-violence (CNNV) has developed out of concern that physical punishment of children has been largely unchallenged by Christian and other religious communities.

CNNV rejects all forms of violence against children including corporal punishment in all its forms. We believe positive, non-violent discipline best models the example set by Jesus. All the recorded encounters between Jesus and children were gentle, respectful and compassionate. They believe all children should have the same protection from being hit in the home and elsewhere as adults. They aim to work with others in developing a network of support, information and practical resources to assist people in churches and communities to promote positive, non-violent discipline.

CNNV believes that in addition to promoting non-violent discipline, religious groups can work with governments to pass legislation to prohibit all forms of violence against children, including corporal punishment.

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