At CrossTrain, we believe that the “family” is God’s primary redemptive plan for His children so we value those things that promote a familial-feel — what we call FRamily, or friends taht are family. Why? In a phrase...

TOGETHER IS BETTER and MORE GODLY

 

The family of God is exactly that — a family. Brother and sister are not just 'Christianese slang terms' but literally what Christ meant (Mark 3:31–35). Because of this, we hold high the TOGETHERNESS of the church gathered. We value the unique giftedness and unity that the Holy Spirit brings together when God's people gather. We give room for everyone to be a participant, and not simply a spectator. Come to any of our gathered times and you'll see for yourself.

 

We also believe very strongly that it is God’s call on parents to shepherd, equip, and disciple their children. (Deut 6:4-9; Eph 6:1-4). The church is to come alongside parents and provide resources and opportunities to help foster that God-given charge.

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How does Multigenerational Faithfulness display itself at CrossTrain?

We demonstrate this priority in our philosophy by developing programs that strengthen families, not fragment them, as we promote entering into God's mission as a family. This means we will endeavor to have children and adults together as much as possible to foster the biblical principles found in 2 Tim 1-2 and Titus 2.
 

For example, children of any age are always welcome in corporate worship! We strongly believe that the best place for children is next to their parents. This philosophy of ministry is also why we have structured our other gathered times the way we have. We try to avoid using set, arbitrary age limits for participation in certain groups. Age segregation, though not necessarily unbiblical, is at best an “extra-biblical” model that often weakens family dynamics in the family of God.

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How do I know where and how my children fit in?

Because multigenerational faithfulness is the philosophy of CrossTrain, we believe that it is primarily a parent’s call as to where and how their children fit best. In any setting, the parent should be active participants with their children as they help them mature in their faith.

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How can I learn more about how to shepherd my family toward this model?

First, talk to one of the leaders or their wives and let them know about your desire to learn more about this. They have a heart to see people grow in this area and will have information about upcoming opportunities to help you develop in this arena. If you have not been through the Parent Commissioning material yet, fill out a Connect Card or email the church and let us know you are interested in it.

 

What are some basic suggestions to help my children participate in this 
Multigenerational Model?

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1. Be prepared and excited about Sunday!

Be excited for church. If you are reluctant, they will be too. If you are critical of the sermon or the music, they will be too. To make Sunday easier, wake up earlier so you can get ready and then help them get ready. Remember, Sunday morning starts on Saturday night. Lay out everything you need on Saturday night. Keep Sunday morning simple! Make a simple breakfast and leave the house with time to spare. Also, be sure to remind your child they are 
participants with you, and should act like it, during the service.

 

2. Talk through the service before it starts.

Read the passage during the week. Talk about what you are learning on Sundays throughout the week. Implementing family worship together at home [a time to read, sing, pray] will help them get used to it on Sunday. 

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3.  Encourage your child to participate and to focus on God.

By teaching your child songs at home, they will be better able to participate in the service. Encourage your child to sit and stand at the appropriate times, to clap when appropriate, etc. Start early; believe it or not, it is easier to introduce a 3 year old to corporate worship than a 12 year old. Teach them early that worship is about God, not about them.

 

4. Help your child become an active listener.

Help your child focus on the sermon by quietly whispering instructions, - i.e. “Listen to this story,” or “Can you draw a picture of…?” As your child gets older and learns to write, model for them on how to take simple notes. The Kid’s Bulletin is a great resource. Grab one for yourself so you can assist them. Use transition moments in the service to engage your child.

 

5. Stretch your young child’s ability to sit attentively.

Sit near the front to help them not be distracted. If you have an active child, you may need to work on sitting still at home. Using a short time each day for sitting quietly and reading books can be very helpful in training young children to use self-control and increase focusing skills. 

 

6. Talk about the service on the way home and/or at lunch.

Affirm your children. If they were well behaved, let them know how wonderful it was to worship alongside them. Speak positively with your child about the service, and ask if they have any questions. Encourage your child to share their drawing and notes and what was learned. Discuss what you learned as well. Use the Daily Readings and In the Word Today as a resource for family discussions during the week to help them make connections.

 

Why are we “going to all this trouble” about Multigenerational Faithfulness?

We understand that this is not a doctrine in the Bible but a philosophy of ministry. We also never want to forget that the desired outcome isn’t to have well behaved kids. It is about discipling children to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. It is about helping the next generation understand that life isn’t about them, but about God. Multigenerational faithfulness is about fulfilling the Great Commission (Matt 28:18-20) as we make disciples in the parent-to-child model that was God’s plan from the beginning. Our war isn’t against flesh and blood (Eph 6:12). But make no mistake! It is a war for our children’s souls. That is worth all the trouble in the world.

 

Further Questions?

If you have additional questions or need more information please speak to one of the leaders of the church, fill out a Connect Card and place it in the Offering Box, or email us at info@crosstrain.church.