Grandparent-to-Grandchild Ideas
Simple ways grandparents can pass on the faith, in person or from far away (Psalm 78:4).
“And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.”Deuteronomy 6:6-7
What can grandparents do in person?
- Read a storybook Bible together and let the child turn the pages.
- Tell your own story: how God brought you to faith, your baptism, a time God helped you.
- Teach a table prayer or a hymn you learned as a child.
- Take them to church with you and sit together.
- Bake or garden together, and talk about God's creation.
What can long-distance grandparents do?
- Weekly video call: read one Bible story and pray for each other.
- Mail a handwritten blessing on their birthday or baptism birthday (see Milestone Blessings).
- Send a children's devotional and do the same reading on the phone.
- Keep a prayer list for each grandchild and tell them you pray for them by name.
How can I respect the parents?
Support the parents' lead and their church. Ask before giving faith materials, and choose books from their tradition when you can (use the tradition filter).
Which books go deeper?
The Spirituality of the CrossGene Edward Veith
God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of LifeGene Edward Veith
Law and Gospel: How to Read and Apply the BibleC. F. W. Walther
Concordia: The Lutheran ConfessionsPaul Timothy McCain (ed.)