Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Advice, please

Edited to add: Thanks for all of your comments. I appreciate each one... I have a lot to think about... I'll keep you updated.


We are not members of a church. I've been trying out a church off and on for many years, but something isn't right. My kids have attended their 'Kids Club' during the week for 3 years. The first year they went every Wednesday, participated in the spring play and loved it. The next year we were there most of the time and didn't participate in the final play performance as we had a conflict with a trip... it was like pulling teeth to get my oldest to keep attending. This year, the oldest doesn't want anything to do with it and now the middle one is following suit. I want to force them to participate, however, I haven't made a commitment myself so I feel somewhat hypocritical. Any suggestions. If it is this hard to commit to this church does that mean that it's not the right one?

6 comments:

Buffalo Gal said...

You exposed the kids to one church; they participated and now they want a break. Fine. Kids follow what they see so if it doesn't feel right to you, they will likely get that vibe and follow suit.

We went to a church for 3 years and it never felt right. We finally got the courage to attend elsewhere and everything clicked right away.

I think that this is something where you have to follow your "little voice". It will lead you to the right place.

Karmyn R said...

I wish I had advice, but I don't. Dave and I keep talking about finding a church - but never get around to it. I guess having the kids at a Christian school makes me feel better.

but, I think if you find one that you like - it probably wouldn't take much to keep going.

Rachel said...

It's hard to know what to do, isn't it?! Is it the church or is it the kids...hard to know...I say try a few churches out and then re-evaluate. :) Can't wait to hear about your journey~

Jules from "The Roost" said...

I think it is really important for our kids to see us committed in this area first. It is not uncommon for kids to loose interest in their pre-teen & teen years in church stuff. Ironically it is when they need it most. It helps them when we are committed. If for some reason this church is not getting it for you....try around. BUT there is NO perfect church. I pray you find the right one! :)

Pamela said...

My mom made me go to church, and I didn't make mine go.

Now I wish I had done so.

mimisteele said...

Angela...I'm having the same problem with Josh. I just keep telling myself that I'm doing the best I can and I don't really want to force him. It's such a hard call...I've seen kids "Churched" all their lives and some turn out good and some turn out bad. I've seen kids not "Churched" at all (ie. my sis and I) and some turn out good and some turn out bad.

FYI....Bob went to Church all of his life until he went to college and then didn't go again until we joined First Pres. when he was 39!!

Not really a good answer, but is their really a concrete answer with religion and/or parenting????

You're a good mom, you're laying a good foundation and keep praying for your kids. You'll find something you're all interested in and it may not be "in a Church"....community projects, serving others, etc. are great and just always remember to keep the communication lines open be it for religion or other topics.