LEWISTON – Doug and Sonia Taylor, ministry directors of the urban youth outreach, the Jesus Party, have announced the kick-off of the ministry’s annual Blue Ribbon Campaign to prevent child abuse and neglect.

The Taylors said April is National Child Abuse Awareness Month. They said the mission of the youth outreach is to arouse religious leaders to take their message of peace, love and joy beyond the stained-glass window; encourage community and church involvement in recognizing and preventing child abuse and neglect; educate families, children and neighbors on how to prevent abuse; empower individuals by introducing them to the power of prayer; and assist families in achieving healthy parenting practices through Biblical and social concepts.

The blue ribbon has been recognized as a national symbol of child abuse awareness. The movement began in the spring of 1989 when a concerned grandmother, Bonnie Finney of Norfolk, Va., took a stand against child abuse after experiencing the death of her grandson.

She tied a symbolic blue ribbon to her van as a signal to her community of her personal commitment to involve everyone in the battle to stop child abuse.

On Fridays, April 11, 18 and 25, at 6 p.m. during regular Jesus Parties, children will observe a moment of silence, prayer, song and candlelighting to expose the darkness of child abuse. Everyone in attendance will receive blue ribbons.

The Taylor’s have added three 5 p.m. Saturday services for the month, focusing on “Good Health and Wellness for Children,” teaching the importance of making good choices, healthy habits and attaining personal goals.

On Saturday April 12, the topic will be staying safe with strangers and in cyberspace. Safety suggestions will be given when dealing with people in the neighborhood, at home and on the Internet.

On Saturday, April 19, the focus will be health and hygiene. The ministry will deal with the issues of basic personal care, including brushing teeth, bathing, skin care, proper sleep, nutrition and physical activity.

On Saturday, April 26, the subject will be dealing with feelings. Children will learn practical tips for communicating care and respect in relationships while dealing with everyday worries, grief, fear and big life changes.

All events are open to children 5 years old and up and are held at J.P. headquarters, 291 Bates St. For details, call 786-5568. For child welfare resources, visit www.childwelfare.gov.