I don’t remember having family meetings as a child. I remember a serious conversation when my parents were divorcing. But nothing else comes to mind. Definitely no Christian family meetings.
I was shocked to read in Barna Group’s study showing nine key indicators of faith-filled families, one was weekly family meetings. I was more shocked to find out that so many of my friends did this growing up—until I realized they really weren’t.
They were counting things like family dinners together—which is another completely separate key indicator. Or they were having family meetings only when something heavy needed discussion. Neither of these things is what Barna Group classifies as family meetings—or what I’m shooting for. I want those calm but power-filled times of connection—where we really see into each other’s lives and all the triumphs and tragedies—as well as the to-do’s, wants, and needs. I want the ones you come out of completely rejuvenated, connected, and fueled with that go-get-em jolt. And you know you can go get ’em because you have the power of your whole family behind you. That’s what I’m shooting for.
But I had no idea how or where to begin. So I braved the whole wide world (er…worldwide web) and found some kind of okay things. But it still wasn’t what I was looking for. Although most allowed for some crossover, none were form-fitted for the things Christians (er…we disciple kinds) would be most interested in. So, I was back to the drawing board (er…the Canva board). And I came up with something I’m loving. In true PtL style, I’m sharing my free printable with you!
Start Your Own Tailor-made Christian Family Meetings
Here are some foundational tips to get you going:
- First, set a regular meeting time that works for everyone. This helps ensure that everyone can attend and helps create a sense of routine—or even tradition.
- Then, create an agenda and share it with everyone in the family. This will help keep the meeting focused and ensure that everyone has a chance to bring up issues or topics they want to discuss. And don’t worry—I’ve got you covered in my free printable!
- Discuss any family issues: I like to open with what God is showing each of us this week, what we’re praying for, and how our relationship is with God and each other this week. Ask what the biggest frustrations are this week. Encourage everyone to share their perspective and work together to find a true solution. Honestly, in our family, there aren’t often issues. Not beyond coming up with a meal plan and grocery list for the week. We’re pretty boring by the world’s standards.
- Celebrate successes and accomplishments (the “roses” if you’re familiar with Habits of the Household). This can help promote a sense of positivity and encourage everyone to continue working towards their goals.
- Plan family activities or events. Then get ready for more family bonding. After all, fun together is another of the 9 key indicators of faith-forming families.
- Check in on family members’ struggles (their “thorns” if you’re familiar with Habits of the Household) and see how each is doing. Ask what their hardest prayers are this week. This can help promote open communication and ensure that everyone feels heard and supported. This will bring on the bonding.
The goal of the meeting is to grow together while growing in God. It’s to fuel a powerful and God-honoring family movement. And to fully engage His world as He calls us.
Sample Meeting Prompts
Here are some sample prompts to get your Christian family meetings started:
- What is God showing you this week?
- What are your prayers this week?
- What is your hardest prayer?
- How is your faith/walk/relationship with God?
- Grocery list and meal planning
- Goals hit, goals set, rewards
- Game/fun/movie night plans
- What are you reading in scripture?
- What are your tragedies and triumphs this week?
- What do you need this week from others?
- What are you thankful for this week from others?
- What else beneficial can you add?
And yes, I’ve got a pretty and free Christian Family Meetings download to share with you.
Enjoy!
