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Even though my ex-husband knows I'd like the kids to attend church services during holidays like Christmas and Easter, he never seems to take them to services when they spend these holidays with him. Is there anything I can do to make him understand how important it is to me that the children spend these holidays in church?Jen's thoughts:
Yes, there is. First, you can talk to your ex-husband about your concerns. If you want to change something he's doing, having a calm and rational conversation about it is usually the best place to start. Perhaps if he has the opportunity to understand why you feel so strongly about the children attending church services on religious holidays, he will consider bringing them.What do you think? Click "comments" below to share your thoughts and ideas.
However, it's also important to realize that your co-parent isn't going to parent the same way you would in every situation. This doesn't have to mean, though, that your kids must miss out on the spiritual growth that you envision for them. There is a lot you can do to share your spiritual beliefs outside of attending formal religious services. For example, you can share your personal beliefs with them, do activities together that illustrate the faith lessons you'd like them to learn, and read books that explain the historical and religious meaning behind holidays such as Easter and Christmas.
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I have same issue with my ex. Actually with church in general. I take our son, he doesnt. Funny thing is its his religion! But we just feel differently about it. I know his attitude is i only have him every other weekend so i do not want to spend it in church (since he doesnt go himself). So i decided i needed to just let it go. When i can, i take our son to church when i pick him up from his dads on sunday. We are catholic so lots of mass times. Holidays there are a lot of masses so i can usually sqeeze it in but if not then whatever. My son also ends up missing ccd every other week too. Our priest was very understanding and they just let me take the book home to cover it at home. I think in the end my son gets the message that its important to me. I never say anything about his dad not taking him because then i am judging him which is wrong. And you know life is too short to spend energy on things i have no control over! My son will just have to take what works for him from both of us you know? How different is it than if you are married and only one spouse goes to church? Maybe the kids are going to church but they sure notice the parent that stays home! I also agree with Jen that we dont have any say in our kids visits with our ex’s….and we shouldn’t….as hard as that can be to accept! Let go and let God is what i tell myself alot!
First of all…I think you need to evaluate why you feel a need to take the children to church during these two seasons. Is God tugging at your heart? There is much more to understanding Christ and your salvation than attendance at church twice a year. Jesus Christ loves you every day of the year. You can receive His grace, love and forgiveness any day or time, not just Christmas and Easter. He is ready and willing….even when we are not. Find a Bible and just start reading…it is good stuff. God bless you and your precious family…