5 Ways The Church Can Support My Mixed-Faith Family
I Followed The Formula
I grew up a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, learning to be a member by observing those around me as well as being taught by goodly parents.
I learned to serve, lead, teach, pray and participate from parents & grandparents, who put the church first in their lives.
I followed the prescribed pattern for church membership that was modeled for me.
I taught my children the way that I was taught, by example and direct instruction.
Then Something Unexpected Happened
Fast forward a few years ago when nothing prepared me for my husband and some of our children stepping away from the church. Leaving me as the believing member in my household. I never realized how much support in our faith we get from our family members.
Without my family to share in the gospel, I felt lonely. I still need to worship with a community and I love being part of the “Body of Christ”.
That Got Me Thinking
There isn’t really anything to help our leaders or friends at church know what we might need or how to support us in mixed-faith families. Also, I know our church friends aren’t telepathic…
So, I created a list of things that I try and use with my ward family.
5 ways that the Church can support my mixed-faith family:
- Give me a calling – I love being able to serve and would love a calling that lets me be needed at church.
- Give me opportunities to serve others – These opportunities often work better for me as an invitation and not an assignment.
- Talk with me about what my needs are – If my name ever comes up in Ward Council or any other meeting, don’t ask anyone else what they think I need. Please talk to me directly. There is no one who understands my needs better than I do.
- Talk with me directly about what you expect from me and allow me to explain my circumstances. – Sign-up sheets, emails and Facebook announcements are often good for group communications, but other times nothing can take the place of a 1:1 conversation.
- Be kind and welcoming – When my family chooses to attend anything with me – it makes it hard when people act like lightning has struck should my husband come to church. Frequently, church members have nothing to talk about – but the church. I want my family members to feel comfortable around other church members, simply as friends.
BONUS – One additional way that I can make it easier for the Church to support me.
I need to know what I need – and I need to speak up about it. I can’t expect friends, leaders or ministers at church to notice what I need or offer it to me. It’s my responsibility to let them know when I need a blessing, help with gluten-free sacrament, or receive ministering. I need to ask for the help I need.
How About You?
Do any of the above ideas resonate with you?
Are some of these ways the church can support you in a mixed-faith family something you can share with members of your Ward?