my parents aren't AGAINST religion, they just have never been the type to go to church or anything. i have been involved in the youth group at my friend's church for a few months and i would like to look into joining and getting baptized and everything. i am 16 years old so i know i would have to take classes first, which is fine. should i talk to my youth group leader? and who could i go to church with? please help me out, especially if you have been in a similar situation.
2007-02-20 12:57:05 · 22 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
i'm not afraid that they wouldn't let me do it or anything, i just was wondering if there's anything i shouldn't do or say when i tell them about it.
2007-02-20 13:08:30 · update #1
oh yeah and rides aren't an issue because i have my license.
2007-02-20 13:12:26 · update #2
unfortunately my friend doesn't attend the church anymore either, only the youth group.
2007-02-20 13:13:07 · update #3
You are in a tough situation, and I commend you for wanting to go to church when your family isn't interested. If you have been going to the youth group, then they probably at least know that. Tell them that you are having a good time there and you understand that even if they do not believe the same as you do, you do believe in God and want to join the church. Explain to them that regardless, you are still their kid and you still love them. Explain that you would like them to understand that you are doing it for you because you are enjoying the church and it makes you happy. Also, go to the youth group leader. He/She can help you get a ride on Sundays. They are GREAT with stuff like that. They can hook you up with some people that will be able to take you if your parents will not take you.
Again, I commend you for standing up for your faith. That's tough. But you can do it. Remember, God is with you no matter what happens. And, remember, they will not fully understand because they are not looking at it through the eyes of faith that you have. Keep that in mind. Unless they are Christian, they cannot FULLY understand, but just be prepared for that. Good luck!
Amanda
Email me if you need help or prayers!!
2007-02-20 13:05:48 · answer #1 · answered by One Odd Duck 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
well first of all, yes you should talk to you youth leader, pastor, music minister or anyone in the church of leadership. i dont know your whole situation, but talking to your youth leader or pastor, im sure they could help you in how you would want to approach your parents about it. also if your friend you attend church w/ has parents that go to church also, talk to them about it, im sure they could help you also. since you said your parents arent against religion, then i assume they wouldnt have a problem w/ you joining and being baptized. as far as who you could go to church w/ try to make friends in the youth group, get to know your youth leaders and other people in the church so they know that you're eager to be apart of the church.this is an awesome thing and im so glad you've made this decision!!!if you have any other questions just ask.
2007-02-20 13:09:59 · answer #2 · answered by hillbillyangelbaby 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hey there Jessica.
I think you should talk to your parents,and ask if it's okay if you start going to the church.I don't see why they would mind.Explain to them that it's something you feel is important,and you'd really like to go.
Since the youth group you go to is connected to the church,I guess you would already know a few of the people your age that would be attending the church.
I'm sure your youth group leader would be really pleased to hear of your decision.Let him know that you are planning on attending.
You could go to church by yourself,with a relative if you have one,or you could go with your friend.
2007-02-20 13:06:38 · answer #3 · answered by Serena 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't worry so much. If they already know you are involved with the youth group it isn't so far reaching for you to want to become a member. Start with your youth group leader and go from there. You will find all the support you need if you just speak up.
Good luck !
2007-02-20 13:01:34 · answer #4 · answered by Bella 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
first.Pray to God and see if you are joining the right church, really think about it, look inside yourself do you get a warm feeling in your heart, can they testify of the truth, do they do what they say, do their scriptures give you a great feeling. When i joined the mormon church, it was the same, it felt like i was happy, like life was worth living. I had a warm fuzzy feeling, a trembling in the knees burning in the bosom, i was at peace, everytime they testified to me, or i visited the church i was at peace there was a voice inside me that kept telling me it was true, ive never had any regreats, and i have had so many questions awnsered, and i know that i will have never ending happiness, and my sins can be forgiven. I know you probably think i am a preacher girl but i am not. You make the choice, just make sure it is the right one. Don't just dive in, think if it is based on the right reasons, and look at the faults, can you feel the spirit? don't let satan tempt you to do something you don't want. i don't think your parents will mind, you might enlighten them
2007-02-20 13:06:23 · answer #5 · answered by Kendra :D 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If your parents are not against "religion" there should be no problem, just be honest with them ...and yes! I would definately discuss this with your youth pastor- He would be blessed! I am blessed to see a young person like you make this decision!!!
I am sure if your parents know you are serious they would probably give you a ride to church! I am sure they would be happy you have found a safe, healthy way to spend your time. If not, I am sure your youth pastor would know someone who would help you out with rides too!
God bless you!
P.S. your parents just might become interested in getting involved themselves...maybe God is opening a door for you to lead them!
2007-02-20 13:04:17 · answer #6 · answered by jamocha 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You don't say what denomination you are speaking of, but are you joining the church to be sociable or are have you accepted Christ as your Savior and are wanting to follow through by making it public. If your parents are not against you going then, talk to them first, then go to the pastor or youth minister and ask them to help you. You wanting to go to church may help your parents to want to go, in time. Don't get discouraged, pray about it and God will help you to know what to do. I wish you the best.
2007-02-20 13:08:44 · answer #7 · answered by grandmabonnie 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just go. You're old enough to know right from wrong. Love and respect your parents. Just say "Mom, Dad, so and so is picking me up for church tomorrow. I'll be gone for a couple hours. Here's how you can reach me if you need to. . . . "
I'm sure there are plenty of people who would be happy to give you a ride to services and classes. You can even invite your parents, but respect if they do not want to go.
2007-02-20 13:04:15 · answer #8 · answered by Smiley 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Make sure you talk to your parents first, and be honest with them. They may wind up eventually joining that church as well. So if they say yes, then start by talking to and questioning the youth leader. He or she can lead you to who else you may have to talk to, or show you how to make any necessary arrangements. I applaud you.......I wish you the best of luck.
2007-02-20 13:04:28 · answer #9 · answered by cajunrescuemedic 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Personally, I am strongly anti religeon, however. here is what I would do if I was in your shoes.
Write a letter to your parents explaining your feelings on why you want to go to church, invite them to come with you. If they attempt to dissuade you, please listen to their words, and see if what they are saying is about helping you be careful or if they are just denying you what you want.
Many times the group feeling of going to church is so great you overlook the small malices, and hypocrisy there.
be careful. and Trust your gut. If something or someone feels wrong. RUN!.
2007-02-20 13:07:11 · answer #10 · answered by Tom 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋