 | The Reverend Doctor Cathy Northrup was born in Ft. Meade, MD, and was raised in a variety of places in the United State and Germany, as her father was in Counter Intelligence with the Army. She graduated summa cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa, from Hamline University in St. Paul, MN, with a double major in English and Religion. She graduated from Georgetown Law Center in Washington, DC, and practiced law with the Federal Reserve Board for a number of years before attending Union Theological Seminaryin Richmond, VA. She graduated from Union, and served several churches in North and South Carolina, at the same time obtaining her Doctor of Ministry from Princeton Theological Seminary in Princeton, NJ. Dr. Northrup is currently the Pastor/Head of Staff of First Presbyterian Church, Wichita, KS. She is married and has two black Labrador dogs who were rescued from abusive situations. You can contact Dr. Northrup at cnorthrup@firstpresbywichita.org or by phone at (316) 263-0248, ext. 26. |
Religion
2008-12-31 09:59:00
Religion within broken relationships
Question: I am a single parent. My ex lives on the coast and has not seen the kids (ages 11 and 9) for several years. I have never been that religious, but now I feel I may have missed providing my kids with something they need. However, they are now at an age where I’m not sure they will pay attention. What can I say or do that would have the best chance of getting their interest?
Answer: First of all, let me commend you for realizing that both you and your children need God and the church in your life. It is never too late! Second, let me note that there are many ways you can all become involved in a church. As the parent, you should take the lead in finding a community of faith in which your family can learn, grow and serve. I would urge you to ask family, friends, neighbors and colleagues at work for their recommendations. Or, you could look on the web; many churches have very helpful web sites that give you a sense of their community. Then, try out those places. Sometimes, however, “a little child shall lead them,” and you could ask the parents of your children’s friends where they go, or even the children themselves. That might make your children more comfortable.
Third, be persistent. Pray for yourself and your children, that God might lead you to the church best for you. Keep trying when you visit churches; you will find one in which you can feel at home.
Finally, I do not know where you live, but if you are in Wichita, I would invite you to come visit the church I serve. We have many programs for children, and you will find us a warm and welcoming community.
