Family
The gift of family is one of the great treasures we receive from God. Accordingly, we are called to love and nurture the family we have. We serve and obey our parents, and we love our siblings. Those joined in marriage are called to live and die for each other and for their children, if they are blessed with them. Despite being so great a gift, family life isn’t always easy.
Below, you’ll find useful sources that span the needs of family life, from issues within the home to the joys and struggles of raising children.
Free Resources
Christian Commentary for Caregivers – Sexual Abuse
Children often piece together lessons from life, and it is hard for parents or caregivers to know what “lessons” have been learned. ...
Domestic Violence and Abuse is Everyone’s Concern
Domestic Violence and Abuse is Everyone's Concern
When Homes Are Heartless — An LCMS Perspective on Domestic Violence
When Homes are Heartless
Pastoral Care Rites and Prayers for Victims of Domestic Violence
Pastoral Care Rites and Prayers
Helpful Resources for Victims of Domestic Violence
Prepared by the LCMS Domestic Violence and Abuse Task Force
Has God Abandoned Me?
For Women Facing Domestic Violence
Training Manual on Domestic Violence
Prepared by the LCMS Domestic Violence and Child Abuse Task Force
Your Children in Church
It can be hard to keep your children occupied in church. Included are tips for making worship more meaningful for them — and for you.
‘Hope and Healing’ Bible Study
Sexual assault, rape and domestic violence are difficult topics to address. They are emotionally volatile and heartbreaking life events, and for women who are suffering and trying to heal, the perfect peace of the Gospel is vital.
In Christ, there is hope and healing for survivors of sexual assault. This Bible study and its companion materials are intended to help fill this need in churches.
‘You Are Not Alone’ Prayer Book
You Are Not Alone: A Prayer Book for Victims of Domestic Violence, is the newest resource from the LCMS Domestic Violence and Child Abuse Task Force. This devotional prayer book will help victims give voice to their heavenly Father in the midst of heartache and despair.
Ten Ways to Give the Greatest Gift
What is the greatest gift you can give your child? Perhaps this hint from God’s Word helps: “What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?” (Mark 8:36). The greatest gift Christian parents can give their children is what you might call “soul food.”
Ten Things Your Teen Won’t Tell You
One of the most difficult tasks facing parents today is keeping the lines of communication open with their adolescent children. No longer “children” in the narrow sense of the word and not quite adults either, adolescents are often a mystery to their parents (as well as to themselves).