Growing up going to church was a regular part of my upbringing. My parents took us to church on and off throughout my childhood. We went Sunday mornings, Wednesday evenings and I even remember attending Vacation Bible School for a few years. We weren’t always consistent with attending church, there were several periods of time that we didn’t attend. But one thing that never wavered was the foundation of our faith. Even though there were blocks of time growing up where we weren’t attending a church, my parents made sure that we would still practice our faith in the house, with devotions, prayers, songs, and scripture reading. Laying this foundation has helped me as I’ve become an adult.
When I was a sophomore in high school we were invited to attend a church with some friends, that church became our home. I attended Sundays, youth groups, I was married there, baptized there, worked in the church office, and both of my children were baptized there. This church is my home. But it’s not about the building, it’s about the people and the lessons and Jesus! Even though the church building has nothing to do with growing my faith, having a place to learn and grow in the faith certainly helps.
I have known since my husband and I got married that when we made the decision to have children raising them in Christian faith was important to me. I worked at church when my daughter was born, she attended the church daycare and preschool and received weekly bible lessons. When my son was born he attended the church daycare until I changed jobs when he was about two years old. I attended a weeknight church service so they didn’t always get a Sunday school lesson, I tried to keep with lessons using books, stories, songs, and prayers.
When the pandemic hit and witnessing all of our world’s current events, it has been more important than ever to me to establish good faith practices with my children. That has gotten harder since church services and children’s programs have gone virtual. We do watch services online, but the establishment isn’t what’s important. It’s my responsibility to make sure they are getting fed spiritually. Yes, attending worship services and children’s programs help, but the biggest example needs to be set at home.
I know that as they grow their faith walk will not always be a smooth path. But, I do believe that with a good foundation, guidance, and support they will be just where they need to be.
Wonderful post. Sounds like you’re doing a great job of being an example of Christ in your children’s lives. It is definitely different during a pandemic, but you are correct that home is where it begins. Keep up the good work!
Children learn what they live. As parents we need to lead by example living a life of faith. We need to remain true in our faith walk which they will see and replicate. Good job momma, keep doing what you’re doing.
Comments are closed.