Teaching our children to love going to church

Even before the unprecedented challenges posed by Covid-19, the number of children and teenagers attending church services in the UK was in steep decline

Key Points:

Decline in Attendance: Nearly three-quarters of young Britons now identify as having no religion. The number of under 16s in the Church of England has fallen by 20% in five years. Three-quarters of Anglican churches have less than five under 16s in their congregation, and just over a third have none.
Endangered Species: If something is not done to halt the decline, we could hit ground zero within a decade: children and young people could be entirely absent from our churches.

What It Means for Christian Faith in the UK:

Urgent Action Needed: The decline in children attending church services is a wake-up call. The Church must invest in youth ministry now to prevent an entire generation from slipping away.

Relevance and Adaptation: The Church needs fresh approaches to engage young people. It’s time to rethink how we communicate the timeless message of Christ in a rapidly changing world.

Securing the Future: Churches must secure their future by investing in youth ministry. Theological and ethical alignment with the younger generation that does not compromise God’s word is crucial.

Hope and Resurrection: While the situation is serious, there’s hope. The Church can choose to preside over the resurrection of youth ministry by sowing seeds of hope and commitment.

Even if the world system and society tell our children that church is outdated, as parents who love Jesus, we have an important duty to ensure the values of loving God and not neglecting the congregation of His saints are instilled into them from an early age.

Consider the bible verse below;

Hebrews 10:25 (ESV):

“Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”

This verse emphasizes the importance of not forsaking the assembly of believers. Regularly gathering together for worship, fellowship, and encouragement strengthens our faith and reminds us of the hope we have in Christ

Certainly! Teaching our children about the importance of going to church can have a positive impact on their lives. Here are some reasons why it matters:

Community and Belonging:
- Going to church provides a sense of community. Children learn that they are part of something larger than themselves—a spiritual family. It’s a place where they can connect with others who share their faith and values.
Spiritual Growth:
- Church offers opportunities for spiritual growth. Children learn about God, Jesus, and biblical principles through teachings, songs, and stories. Regular attendance helps reinforce these lessons and encourages a deeper understanding of faith.
Moral Guidance:
- Children gain moral guidance from church. They learn about kindness, compassion, forgiveness, and love. These values shape their character and behavior, helping them make better choices in life.
Worship and Prayer:
- Church provides a space for worship and prayer. Children learn to express gratitude, seek guidance, and find solace in their faith. Participating in communal worship fosters a sense of reverence and connection with God.
Support System:
- The church becomes a support system. Children experience care, encouragement, and prayer from fellow believers. When facing challenges, they know they’re not alone—they have a community to lean on.
Teaching to celebrate things related to God and His kingdom values:
- Attending church introduces children to things related to God and His word. Whether it’s celebrating Easter holidays, baptisms, or communion, these practices create a sense of continuity and heritage.
Role Models:
- Children see role models within the church—people who live out their faith. These examples inspire and encourage them to follow Jesus and make a positive impact in their own lives.