Empowering Parents
Research consistently shows us that parents are the primary faith-formers for their children—not clergy, not Sunday School teachers, not friends.
God has called parents to this holy work, and as the church we are here to support them as they go about it. Here are some resources to encourage and empower parents in the role of family faith-formers.
Food for thought . . .
Sometimes it can be overwhelming for parents to add “be an effective Christian parent” to their long list of tasks and expectations. The good news is that, first of all, God has already equipped you to be the parent of this particular Child of God. In fact, you are already doing a lot of what you are called to do!
Being Intentional about Faith
Discipleship
in daily life!
According to Denise Utter, families are already holy in the way that they:
forgive each other
pray for each other
heal each other
sacrifice for each other
love each other
Try using existing family rhythms to practice faith:
Through the day: connect at mealtimes, during car rides, at exits and returns in the house
Through the year: identify meaningful rituals and traditions connected to seasons and the church year
Through family moments: give thanks in good times, ask for help and guidance in hard times, and pray through life transitions
Through the life cycle: acknowledge God’s presence at milestones (births, firsts, graduations, relationships, jobs, retirement, etc.)
Strategies
Faith Practices
When parents prioritize and practice their faith in authentically in ways that are personally important to them. It doesn’t have to be ALL the practices, but one or a few done intentionally (NOT perfectly!) sets a powerful example.
Involvement in Church
A healthy church community is a wonderful support system for parents raising kids in the Christian faith. Aim to attend regularly and enthusiastically, and become involved.
Regular Conversation
Caring conversation is one of the important Keys of Faith. It can happen organically, or intentionally (see some prompts below). It works best when we listen and share, not instruct!
Conversation Starters
Communication is key, whether it’s between parents and formation leaders or parents and children. These conversation prompts can help (all of us) practice talking about our faith! Be sure to really listen to the answers, instead of waiting to hop in with instructive advice or your own experience.
Why is faith important to you?
What are you praying for?
How is Jesus showing up for you?
What are you hoping for?
What have you lost?
What are you celebrating?
What would you love to be able to do?
What one thing are you longing for yourself?
What one thing are you longing for your family?
What was most formative in your faith journey?
How is God moving in your life?
