In this conversation, Melanie Cave and Ed Drew discuss the importance of supporting parents in their journey of faith formation with their children. They explore insights from research on what parents want from their churches, the role of vulnerability in parenting, and how to navigate difficult conversations about faith with children. Ed shares his journey into children's ministry and emphasizes the need for churches to build relationships with families rather than just providing resources. The discussion highlights the significance of modelling authenticity and faith in everyday life, encouraging parents to embrace their role as the primary spiritual influence in their children's lives.

Takeaways

- Parents feel valued when included in faith discussions with their children.

- Parents often feel guilty about their struggles to have faith conversations at home.

- Churches need to create environments where families feel they belong and can grow.

- Vulnerability in parenting allows children to see authentic faith in action.

- Parents should model their faith and priorities for their children.

- Conversations about faith should be normalized within families and churches.

- Children are perceptive and notice their parents' priorities and struggles.

- Support from church leaders can empower parents in their faith journey.

- 30% of parents want a broader variety of resources for family discipleship.

Sound Bites

"Parents want relationship with their church."

"We want to feel supported by our church."

"We are all muddling through parenting."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Faith in Kids and Ed's journey

05:00 The role of parents in children's faith

08:50 Navigating parental insecurities in faith conversations

12:26 Modelling authenticity in parenting

16:25 The importance of vulnerability in faith discussions

23:29 Exploring taboos in parenting conversations

26:59 The need for authentic relationships in church

31:01 Vulnerability and storytelling in faith

34:07 Recognizing God's presence in everyday life

38:11 Resources for churches and families

40:20 Real-life stories of faith in action

Show notes

• Melanie's interview with Dr Sarah Holmes: Supporting Families in Faith
• www.faithinkids.org
• https://www.faithinkids.org/podcasts/
• Nehemiah Sunday School resource: https://www.faithinkids.org/nehemiah-gods-big-build/.
• Mark Sunday School resource: https://www.faithinkids.org/jesus-is-here/
• www.rootsforchurches.com