DadChurch

Tough Questions Kids Ask

February 2006: Why Doesn't Dad Go to Church?

In all families, children will wonder at some point why certain people they know don't go to church. If Dad or Mom is a non-believer, they may first ask about that parent, but even children with two Christian parents will eventually face the more general question of why their friends or neighbors are not all church-goers.

Perhaps the best response looks at why Christians attend worship. Explain to children that God loves to spend time with us. By going to church, we make time for Him, worship Him and receive His love, support, and direction. Point out that Dad, or Mom, or the non-religious neighbors don't understand the importance of worship, but we hope and pray some day they will.

Jim Clark's article "Spiritually Parenting Solo in Christ," posted at heartlight.org, has several additional suggestions for Christian spouses of non-believers. These include praying faithfully for our non-believing family members, doing our best to strengthen our marriages, and openly discussing with our spouses the values that we should share with our children.