Deb Jurchen serves the District as Family Ministry Consultant. In this role, she will share articles and resources to encourage congregations to connect with and serve the families in their community.
Weary, stressed, burdened, overcommitted…does this describe the parents you see in your community? Many are carrying heavy loads—raising children, supporting their households, and often helping care for aging parents. In the midst of these demands, the church and school can lift these burdens to the Lord with intentional prayer.
One simple step is to include focused prayers for parents during worship. Another is for school and ministry staff to take time to pray by name for the parents in their setting.
Imagine what could grow from a foundation of Parent Prayer Partners. In a school setting, older-grade parents might commit to praying for younger-grade parents. In a congregation, older members could be invited to pray faithfully for specific parents and families. These partnerships strengthen the body of believers, building bridges across generations—encouraging relationships, empathy, and a deeper sense of community.
As you consider ways to care for families in your context, remember that one of the greatest gifts we can offer weary parents is the ability to lift them up in prayer to our risen Lord and Savior.