Has your daughter ever had a bad experience at church? Maybe she butted heads with a mean girl at youth group or overheard a rude comment from a fellow member of the congregation.  

These experiences can make it seem like church is just as bad as the rest of the world. In a way, it kind of is. Why? Because these mean girls or rude congregants are people. They’ve welcomed Christ into their hearts, yes, but people sin, faithful or not.  

So how do we encourage our girl to return to the pews on Sunday? Jesus. While creating a supportive, authentic community is the goal of many churches, the end goal is salvation in Christ! If you feel like your family needs a new church home, don’t be afraid to find a new church, but ultimately, know that your congregation’s goal is to ultimately bring you and your daughter to Christ! 

Listen to the Raising Godly Girls Minute with Patti Garibay: