Bring Back Big Families

As a Christian dad, you’re called to be the spiritual leader of your family. In a big family, where challenges like financial strain or societal pressures can test your faith, your spiritual strength is a beacon. Speaking from my Catholic perspective and expanding on Catholic ideals (though these apply to all Christian brethren), spiritual strength guides your family through tough times and helps your kids grow closer to God.

The Role of a Spiritual Leader

Your job isn’t to be a theologian but to live your faith authentically. When times are tough, your kids need to see you lean on God, not just grit your teeth. By praying as a family, attending Mass or Sunday services, and living out Christian virtues like charity and humility, you show your kids what it means to trust in God’s plan.

Practical Ways to Grow Spiritually

1. Lead Family Prayer: Start small with a nightly prayer routine or a simple grace before meals. Involve the kids by letting them lead the parters or share intentions.
2. Attend Mass (or Sunday services) Together: Make this a family non-negotiable. No excuses or cop outs. It’s a weekly reset that reminds your family who they’re living for. Stay for coffee and donuts after (or some equivalent, if offered) to build community.
3. Model Forgiveness: Practice the forgiveness regularly and encourage your kids to do the same. Show them that seeking forgiveness is a strength, not a shame. If you’re a Catholic, frequently taking your kids to the sacrament of reconciliation is huge.
4. Serve Others: Volunteer as a family at a parish food drive or charity event. Living out the Gospel’s call to serve teaches your kids compassion and purpose. I must admit my family needs to do better at this, but it’s a simple way to model serving others.
5. Stay Steadfast in Trials: When life hits hard with unexpected job issues, illnesses, or losses of family members, lean on prayer and Scripture. Share how your faith sustains you, so your kids learn to do the same.

A Father’s Spiritual Legacy

Your spiritual leadership, like your physical strength, isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence. When you pray with your kids, confess your sins, or trust God in tough times, you’re building a foundation of faith that will carry your family through any storm. As a Christian dad, you’re not just raising kids; you’re raising saints.

What kinds of spiritual tips can you share with other dads? Any family praying habits? Drop them in the comments below or over on X.

Coming soon: The conclusion to our Dad Strong Father’s Day special: Part 4: Intellectual Strength!