A home-centred approach to faith formation in children in a South African context

Abstract

Historically, the church has played a primary role in children's faith formation. Invariably, parents seem to play a secondary or passive role in their children's spiritual development. Globally, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have challenged the traditional way of doing children's ministry. Studies show that the traditional church-centred and home-supported approach for children’s ministry is ineffective. There seems to be a pattern of exit from the church when children leave the parental home in their adult years. This study investigates whether the ineffective faith formation in children from early years is a contributing reason for young people’s decreasing active involvement in church as well as practising faith in adulthood. The methodological framework for this study is Richard Osmer's (2008) “core tasks of a practical theological investigation”. The 'What is going on’ in family ministry in relation to children's faith formation, the role of parents and the church in the faith formation process by explaining the ‘Why it is going on?’ and finally an exploration of good practice regarding the faith formation in children and the "What ought to be going on?" The study develops strategies and provides guidelines for good practice for a home-centred and church-supported approach to faith formation by stating, "How might we respond?" The study applies a thematic analysis to the research. Child development theories, faith development theories, parenting styles, and family ministry approaches provide insight into children’s faith formation from birth to pre-adolescent years. These insights are brought into discussion with an African context. The point of departure of this study is that parents and the family should be the primary faith nurturers for children with adequate support and empowerment from the church. An effective partnership between parents and the church can enhance children's lifelong faith formation. This can develop children’s ongoing relationship with God and the church. This study develops guidelines for an inclusive and integrated home-centred approach to effective faith formation in children in South Africa. Also, this effective via partnership can mitigate the departure of young people from the church in adulthood and actively integrate them into the church through positive developmental relationships within the church, at home, and in the broader community.