(Jesus) replied, "You give them something to eat."
-

Luke 8:13

Ministry to Single Parents

According to the 2000 census 25.6% of the households in the U.S. with
children are headed by a single parent. The majority, 20.8% are single mothers.
This statistic identifies a significant ministry opportunity and possibly a
significantly underserved population in your community.

Congregations need to be aware of the significant challenges of single
parents. Daily household management is the sole responsibility of one adult.
This responsibility includes meal preparation, transportation, home maintenance,
grocery shopping, conflict resolution, laundry, cleaning and much more. Personal
care and career responsibilities have not been mentioned. Without a good support
network, single parents have an overwhelming challenge. The church needs to be a
part of that support network and seek ways to assist single parents in their
multi-faceted life and complicated role.

So, be encouraged to consider the challenges of single parents home and
organize all ministries to consider the constraints of these households and ease
their burdens and equip them for life.

Here are some ideas….

  • Divorce/grief support
  • Divorce/grief support for kids
  • Car care services or training
  • Home maintenance services or training
  • Financial management
  • Car pools to church functions especially for youth/children
  • Fellowship/support groups
  • Subsidize or reduce fees for single parent households
  • Offer childcare at educational and fellowship events
  • Keep contact information for both households in shared custody situations
  • Provide childcare on weekends for single parents to decompress

Without a doubt, there are more strategies than this list. Other
congregations and church bodies may have effective approaches from which we can
learn and perhaps replicate. Single parent households have significant
challenges to which congregations can offer valuable help and training.

Footprints for Families is a workshop/seminar that teaches Christian
parent's life-strategies and skills that nurture the faith within family life.
Topics include; Pursuing a Vision, Managing Chaos and Breathing Faith into Daily
Life.
Faith and Family is a Christian parenting seminar that strengthens the
partnership between the congregation and home. Topics include; Faith Formation,
Church and Family Partnership, and Faith Milestones.

Connections is a workshop/seminar that equips church staffs and
congregational leaders for the development of family ministry. Planning
activities include; Vision to Action Planning, Ministry Survey and Analysis, and
Structuring for Success.

Mr. Jeff Moeller
Director of Youth and Education
(330) 836-7286
jeff.moeller@fairlawnlutheran.org

* Contact the district office for additional information