Introduction
Christians believe the decision to marry and start a family is personal, and some people might choose to remain single to devote their lives to God instead. Some of the best known and most respected Christians have not married, e.g. Catholic priests, monks and nuns. Jesus never married. Some single Christians choose to do important work that does not fit with family life, e.g. helping victims of war in dangerous parts of the world.
Christians believe family life is important because:
- The family is the first place where children can find out about love, companionship and forgiveness.
- Families provide love, comfort, protection and support.
- Families educate children to become responsible adults and better parents. Family life is a very important part of creating a stable society.
- Families encourage each other to follow Christianity. If they go to church together, worship together at home, take part in festivals, etc., they are all less likely to stop bothering.
- Parents can set children a good example of how to live a Christian life, e.g. show love and forgiveness.
- Families can play an important role in the community, egg provide hospitality, support other families, care for the elderly, and adopt unwanted children.
Christian couples / families might try to:
- Keep the marriage vows and promises – to be faithful, love, honour and respect each other, “for better for worse, richer/poorer, sickness/health, till death us do part”…..
- Raise children as Christians.
- Pray and worship together as a family / couple, and go to Church.
- Make sure their family relationships follow the teachings of the Bible.
- Vote for Parliament candidates who believe in the importance of the family.
- Join organisations in the church which support families and married couples e.g. Wives Clubs, groups for young married couples, Mother’s Union, etc...
