Are we wrong with allowing our kids not to go to church?

spirituality and religious beliefs are not the same thing. I don't think it matters what belief system you hold, be it christianity, muslim faith, judaism, buddhism, wicca, or new age... what matters is, do you feel loved, accepted, comfortable and fulfilled in your beliefs? do your beliefs make you a better person emotionally, and outwardly? do your beliefs help you grow as an individual and reach for higher knowledge? do your beliefs encourage compassion and empathy? if so, then you are on the right track. I think a lot of people seem to think that religion is a one-size-fits-all concept... and considering the immense diverity of humanity, that seems rather narrow-minded and egocentric. Maybe it's not okay to assume that a child is doomed because they do not go to a specific church. Maybe, it's more about the morals and sense of self we instill in them, and the freedom to choose what fits them best that counts. Just my thoughts! :)

I ask you this- If their mother had joined a Pagan Coven, would you want the kids to be forced into going? Of course not, because you think Pagans are Devil worshipers.

I am Pagan and I feel just as strongly that your children should not be forced to go to church.

You could do what I do, and home school the kids on ALL religions. They will get a brief overview in high school at some point, but coming from you is better.

I'd rather give my children the knowledge and let them do with it what they may.

Your husband's ex shouldn't demand that you attend the Mormon church with the children when your husband had left that particular sect.

Taking children to church isn't forcing it on them, it's a way of sharing your faith with them, that is what it's all about. We're Roman Catholic, our children (8 and 5) attend Mass with us. My son attends CCD classes and is enjoying them. Last Spring he made his First Holy Communion with pride.

Don't attend a church you don't agree with. Find a church that your whole family can enjoy.

... Okay, I just read the rest of your statement. I'm really sorry that their mother has been unreasonable. I wish you all the best.

While it is your husband's and his ex's choice how to raise their children, I don't think they should be forced to go to church if it's not something their father believes in. My husband and I plan to have our son (he's both of ours) attend church until he reaches the age when he can be confirmed, but that's us. If Dad says they don't have to go (which is not the same as not allowing them to go), they shouldn't have to. I think this is an issue he and his ex need to discuss further, and if necessary, involve their lawyers. Unless there is something in the custody agreement saying Dad has to take them to church, what he does with them during his visitation is his business - within reason, of course. Just make sure he's doing it for the right reasons, and not just to spite his ex. That goes for every parenting decision he makes, though.

It is wrong to force any body especially children into going to church or any other religious places. Children can be brainwashed very easily, its not wrong to introduce children to religion as it teaches them to respect religion and not make fun of it or other persons in the event they do or dont pick a religion. My mum was forced to be a Jehovah's witness and when she had us ( children ), she quit for a pure fact she didn't want us growing up with a particular religion. I am a atheist and am fine and so is the rest of my family. But a certain amount of religion can be good as it means being brought up with restrictions and politeness. If you do let them grow up in a religion then be ready to handle the fact they may not choose to be when older and may " Rebel " in certain terms. Hope it helps :):)

Religion is very personal thing which is ultimately up for the person to decide, not someone else. Religion is also spiritual and if your children go because they have to, and not because they believe, it is a waste of time. I agree with you completely. I think religion should not be forced.

It is not rong at all!! becuase we live in America so dont have to worry about sending ur kids off to church unlike other parts of the the world were they are persicuted. i think you should let ur children make there own dissision if they want to try to go to church or not. if the do want to exsept the faith of whatever church they are going to let them. it should be there personal dission of if they want to exsept that roll.

good luck

I grew up in a church all my life. I dacided to bring my kids with me and then when they turn 10 they can decide for themselves whether or not they want to go anymore. However, if they want to do ongoing activities in the church, they have to go to that church. (For example, if my older girls want to do the teen youth group, they have to go to the church) the only exception is sunday school. in short, my advice would be to take them, and let them decide for themselves when you feel they are old enough.

I don't think you are wrong at all. When I was young I was FORCED to go to church rain or shine. Now I am not in any church. You are allowing them to think for themselves, if you forced them it would not genuine. Their mother is no better by trying to force them into the Mormon religion that is not helping their religious growth.

take them to the church that you two go too, u dont have to force them but maybe make an atleast once a month thing. or just maybe take them to "spritual" places, like to the park, have family time or w.e