Age Group Objectives
for
Faithful Christian Families

In identifying the following Age Group Objectives for Faithful Christian Families, it is understood that Lutheran congregations vary in their Baptism, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation practices. Parents are encouraged to discuss these milestones with their children in accordance with their local parish policies and practices and in consultation with their pastor.

The Virginia Synod has established a vision to nuture faith in households, the church, and the community. We have adapted the Age Group Objectives for Faithful Christian Families from “The Youth and Family Institute’s” four keys for nurturing faith life in the home:

        Caring Conversation

            Listening and responding to the concerns of our children and relating the love of God in daily conversation.

        Family Devotional Life

            Sharing daily Scripture readings and developing lifetime patterns of Christian study, and reflection and prayer, including Worship.

        Family Service

            Proclaiming the Gospel through word and deed by rendering service to Church and community as a family and serving as good stewards of God’s gifts to us.

        Rituals and Traditions

            Developing family values and beliefs through daily routines, celebrations and rituals.

We have incorporated the Four Keys to develop the faith, values, and character formation of children, as well as our Baptismal Calling and VA Synod mission statement, into the Age Group Objectives and Parental Guidelines for Faithful Christian Families described below.