Growing in One’s Faith

Pat McCloskey, OFM, suggests that parents encourage children to attend church by sharing personal reasons for worship rather than citing religious obligation. McCloskey notes that young people often view church attendance as a requirement they can eventually outgrow, and that explaining the personal value of faith may lead to a better response.

McCloskey explains that while attending Mass is a starting point, faith must grow to help adults face serious challenges. He compares stagnant faith to childhood shoes that no longer fit, noting that the faith of a young child cannot support the complexities of adult life unless it matures.