The purpose of every child, no matter how socially and economically deprived he seems to mortal view, is to glorify God. As we let the Christ reveal the man of God's making to us, we will find appropriate ways of helping the underprivileged. In the words of our beloved Leader, Mrs. Eddy, "It is possible,—yea, it is the duty and privilege of every child, man, and woman,—to follow in some degree the example of the Master by the demonstration of Truth and Life, of health and holiness." Science and Health, p. 37;
The problems of underprivileged children are universal, but they stand out most visibly in an affluent society. In the United States, for example, there are pockets of poverty even in areas that enjoy a high level of prosperity.
Lack of education is cited as a major factor. One state agency reports that one third of the parents with children under six have not finished high school. Teenage parents form a large proportion of this group, and an exceptionally high percentage of them are unmarried. Very young parents are often emotionally immature and therefore not ready for the responsibilities of parenthood.
