Christianity

Christianity describes the range of beliefs, rituals, and communities whose adherents understand themselves to be following the moral example of the historical figure of Jesus of Nazareth and/or assert his divinity. Christian theologies have featured ongoing debates regarding children, reflecting or responding against the surrounding culture and its conceptions of childhood. Key themes include the sinfulness or innocence of children and infants and the obligations of children and parents to one another and their community. This entry examines children’s participation in Christian communities, the nature of Children’s Christian theologies, and children’s responsibilities in the Christian faith.