FAMILY SNIPPET JAN 2008
------THE FAMILY YEAR------
When God said "it is not good for man to be alone," He was stating both a social and theological truth about human nature. We are made to find our greatest joy in community. At the heart of the community is the family. What is the make up of today's families?
- They are nuclear, with a Mum, Dad and children who are born/adopted to those parents. Usually they are no longer in an extended family setting.
- Step families which are made up of two remarried individuals and their children from a previous relationship.
- Singles because they have never married, or are divorced, widowed or separated.
- Single parents for the same reasons as above.
- Empty nest as their children have left home
- Re-attached as their adult child/children return home or a parent comes to live with them.
- A church congregation where members feel welcomed, loved and can have 'ties' closer than with those they are related to.
Unfortunately, today's families are under a great deal of stress and brokenness due to the rising divorce rate, increased economic pressure on families, and rapid social changes that tear families apart. These situations have given Christians new reasons for becoming interested in supporting family life. Much of the renewed interest in family has come because people realise that the family is in trouble – even in the church.
Why not plan in 2008 for each month to highlight the importance of some member of the family. Below are some ideas to start you off. It does not have to be big, or expensive, but you can help make our families count.
January |
· Missing Families Month-Contact a family member or friend who no longer attends church.
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February |
· Christian Home & Marriage Week – Ask your pastor to highlight in his sermon on 16 Feb – the importance of the Christian Home.
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March |
· Mother's Day Sabbath – Arrange a card or gift for all the mothers in your church and community.
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April |
· Child Emphasis Month - Encourage family members to spend quality time with their children, including those who have left home and for those taking exams or other stressful events.
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May |
· Singles Emphasis - Honour them by sharing about the contributions they make at home, school/college and workplace.
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June |
· Father's Day Sabbath- Daughters/ Sons take out their Dad for a special treat. Or those dads whose children are far away; why not give them a treat
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July |
· Family Fun Month- Ask your pastor or elder to plan a church event; games in the park, ten-pin bowling, swimming or church outing, etc. |
August |
· Grandparenting Month -Promote an evening concert where grandparents lead out or prepare them a special meal.
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September |
· Abuse Prevention Month. Donate towards the work of Abuse Prevntion Organisations · Make sure the church notice board has the appropriate contact details for agencies who help those suffering from abuse.
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October |
· National Parenting Month- encourage your church leaders to help parents plan a week or novel ways to enjoy a family time instead of watching TV/computer games. You invite a family with children to have a meal or day out with your family
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November |
· Caregivers Month - Present a token of recognition to those giving care to an ageing parent, special needs child, etc.
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December |
· Baby Month – organise a baby shower to expectant mums. · Celebrate the birth of Jesus in your homes and church by inviting those away from their family to your Christmas activities. |
Happy 2008. May God bless you and your families.
Clifford Herman
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