Who Will Speak for the Children? The Church’s Role in a Global Crisis

Episode Title: Children in Crisis – Advocacy, Faith, and Action | To Be and Do Podcast Description: In this heartfelt episode of the To Be and Encouraged podcast, host Reverend Dr. Brad Miller sits down with Bishop Julius C. Tremble to discuss the urgent global crisis facing children today. From the impacts of government policy changes and food assistance cuts to the effects of conflict and poverty on children worldwide, this conversation dives deep into the responsibility of people of faith and the wider community to advocate for and protect vulnerable children. Discover practical ways the church and individuals can respond, and why every child deserves an advocate. Keywords: children in crisis, global hunger, faith action, church response, food assistance cuts, advocacy, Bishop Julius C. Tremble, Reverend Dr. Brad Miller, To Be and Do podcast, child poverty, Matthew 19:14, Children Matter Most, SNAP cuts, humanitarian crisis, minimum wage, affordable housing, UNICEF, UMCOR, moral budgets, justice for children Key Takeaways: Child Advocacy Is a Moral and Faithful Imperative: The conversation highlights how faith communities are called to prioritize the welfare of children in response to global hunger, displacement, and lack of resources. Policy changes, both governmental and institutional, have direct consequences for children in need (00:39 and 01:02). Real-World Impact of Budget Decisions: Budgets—whether national or church—are “moral documents” that reveal true priorities. The billions spent on political advertising starkly contrasts with the relatively small investments needed to feed and care for children globally (12:16 and 14:10). Practical Action Makes a Difference: Advocacy starts locally but should extend globally. Individuals and churches are encouraged to audit their resources, build partnerships, and support organizations like UMCOR and UNICEF, as well as to consider how proximity and personal involvement can spark tangible change for children (05:00 and 16:01). Listen now to learn how you can help answer the alarm for children in crisis — locally and around the world.