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
Living Together Before Marriage
There is something in the issue of “living together” that is uniquely disturbing, especially on the part of Christians, simply because it mimics, but does not honor, marriage. Indeed, the arrangement violates the very meaning, substance, and institution of marriage.
Getting Closer As A Couple
Married couples, for various reasons, may drift apart. The vitality and sparkle that used to characterize their relationship is gone. They didn’t plan it. It just happened — subtly, slowly, silently. However, there is good news. Christian couples can break through emotional distance to revive their relationships
Confronting Cohabitation
In a time when so many people make the mistake of cohabitation, the church has the opportunity to proclaim the hope and promise that are ours through faith in Jesus Christ. The power that raised Christ back to life is the power that brings new life and new possibilities.
Important Steps to Help Prevent Child Sexual Abuse
Important Steps to Help Prevent Child Sexual Abuse
Preventing Child Sexual Abuse Within Youth-serving Organizations: Getting Started on Policies and Procedures
Policies and Procedures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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Suffer the Children: Developing Effective Church Policies on Child Maltreatment
Suffer the Children: Developing Effective Church Policies on Child Maltreatment
Loving the Abused
Your congregation can help victims and perpetrators of abuse by reaching out to those in your community with Christian love and ...
A Lutheran Approach to Ministering to Victims and Perpetrators of Child Abuse: What Does this Mean?
"A Lutheran Approach to Ministering to Victims and Perpetrators of Child Abuse: What Does this Mean?"
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