Michael Xavier sharing about Christian parenting at the Church of the Risen Christ
By Britto Joseph
Aug 11 2023
CHRIST’S parents of catechism students were blessed to have Michael Xavier spending time engaging with them in a session about Christian Parenting. Also present were his wife Anuja and their daughters Desiree and Delfina.
It was an eye-opener for the 40 parents from this parish. He began with a survey to identify the contemporary challenges faced by Christian parents. The survey highlighted several prominent issues including communication, the influence of social media and how to get children interested in their faith without feeling obligated.
Michael focused on six key themes such as God has a purpose for you as a couple; the evil one has plotted a plan to derail God’s purpose; bringing up your children with Christ-centred values; your unity as a couple in Christ is the bedrock of your children’s faith; your children follow you rather than what you say; do your children experience God’s love and deeds; forgiveness and repentance open doors of reconciliation.
Some of the issues discussed were to carry your cross as Jesus did and perhaps one day see your children give testimony about their faith. The parents were led to read scripture-relevant passages for this talk. He also talked about the devil moving among us and the importance of being vigilant. “We are all broken people and we find out strength in Christ,” said Michael.
He also emphasised that the role of parenting is a joint responsibility for mother and father, rather than the sole responsibility of one parent. Both parents should decide to serve the Lord as a united team.
The father of two posed some serious questions to the parents including: Do you walk the talk? Do you commit to coming to church as a family? Do you immerse yourself in the Word of God daily and spend time in prayer daily? Are you rooted in the Word of God?
He challenged the parents to commit to rooting themselves in the Word of God for the next seven days and assured them that they would see improvements in their family relationships.
Most parishioners come to church abiding by tradition but don’t understand the importance of Mass as a sacrifice.
In conclusion, Michael reminded the attendees that grandparents also play an important role in the Christian upbringing through catechising the children their way. – Herald Malaysia
