Southview Church

faith foundations

We recognize that parents have the greatest opportunity for influencing the faith development of their children. While regular involvement in our church rhythms is valuable, the role you play in walking alongside a child as they come to know Jesus can’t be underestimated. As you do this, we want to partner with you in any way we can. We understand that every faith journey is unique, so below are some foundations you can champion with your family, along with various resources to support you. 

child dedication

This is a commitment by parents to guide their child in the ways of Jesus and walk alongside them as they navigate the journey of faith. This faith marker includes a short ceremony of dedication during our weekend services, and a 30-minute child dedication class held via Zoom. 

Teach Your Children Well by Sarah Cowan Johnson 

Video Course by Sarah Cowan Johnson 

Raising Boys and Girls Podcast (Spotify | Apple) 

Southview Child Dedication Class 

family faith habits

We believe that it is powerful to establish regular faith habits and rhythms for your family, early on in your child’s life. These should make sense within the practical realities of your family’s life, so there is no cookie cutter approach, and habits will change over time! 

Habits of the Household by Justin Whitmel Earley 

Raising Boys and Girls Podcast – “Rhythms of Family and Friendship” (Spotify | Apple) 

Households of Faith by Emily Hunter McGowin

Every Season Sacred by Kayla Craig 

faith commitment

Following Jesus isn’t just about being saved from sin: it’s about a new way of living as part of the God’s family. As you and your family navigate your own unique faith habits, reinforce the goodness of following Jesus. Create space for children to engage in the stories of Scripture, and for your children to ask questions about faith commitment.

The Book of Belonging by Mariko Clark and Rachel Eleanor (ages 7-9) 

God’s Big Picture Storybook by NT Wright (ages 6-10)

Baby’s Carry Along Bible by Sally Lloyd Jones & Claudine Gevry(ages 0-4)

Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd Jones & Jago (ages 3-8)

Family Communion Guide

 

baptism

It’s exciting when your child wants to publicly show their faith in Jesus. If a child decides to follow Jesus early in life, they might start asking about baptism around age 8. Our parent guide below can help you consider if it’s a good time. This foundation includes baptism during a weekend service, and a 30-minute class held via Zoom. 

Baptism at Southview

Southview Baptism Class 

adolescence

As your child moves into their teen years they go through a significant change.  New pressures and expectations form for your teen.  As you navigate this season of life here are some resources, we hope will help you as you both navigate the waters of teen life and faith. 

Understanding Your Teen by Jim Burns – Right Now Media 

The Teenage Brain: A Neuroscientists Survival Guide to Raising a Teen and Young Adult by Frances E. Jensen 

purity of life

When your child begins to learn more about the world around them, they begin asking questions and forming their own opinions. As parents you hope your child has a strong understanding of what it looks like to be faithful to Christ in the difficulties they face.

One to One Bible Reading by David Helm 

New Rules For Love Sex & Dating by Andy Stanley 

I Believe by Alister McGrath 

Essentials of Faith – RightNow Media 

Sanctuary Course (Both youth and adult) 

The Culture Translator Podcast by Axis.org 

rite of passage

As your child begins to make faith their own, having an understanding about the church is beneficial. As a parent, it’s a good idea to help your child experience  core practices. This is a great time to look at serving opportunities as ways for your child to put their giftings in action.   

A Jesus Shaped Life: Discipleship and Mission for Everyday People by Bob Rognlien 

Southview Baptism Class 

high school graduation

Congratulations! Completing high school is a huge achievement and deserves to be celebrated. As students start to decide their next steps in life, they face new challenges. They begin to independently decide their career, beliefs, and learn new things about themselves. 

Courage & Calling by Gordon T Smith 

The Call by Os Guinness 

My Utmost For His Highest by Oswald Chambers 

Realm offers a way for our church family to know what’s going on, and grow as a connected, engaged community of believers.