It hurts when people we love leave the Church. And there are many who are having to experience this. Following are some guiding thoughts from the Chief Apostle for all those who fear for the faith of their loved ones.
In an article in a special edition of the Divine Service Guide (01/2024), Chief Apostle Jean-Luc Schneider took a closer look at the well-known parable of the prodigal son. The parable shows how tirelessly God loves human beings even when someone consciously turns away from Him. The father in the parable lets his son go, knowing that he has to make his own choices. At the same time, he keeps the door and his heart open for him and waits for his return full of love.
This image is a consolation to all parents and other people who are struggling with the fact that their children or other family members no longer attend the divine services, the Chief Apostle emphasised: “God is faithful. He does not abandon those who have left Him!” God’s love is for all people, even for those who are currently not with us: “We can trust in Him: He loves them just as He loves us,” he says.
Praying, loving, hoping
Chief Apostle Schneider makes a point of addressing the pain of many parents and ministers who wonder whether they are to blame that their loved ones have distanced themselves from God. He advises them not to torment themselves needlessly. “Not all of those who have left have done so because of errors that we may have committed,” he clarifies and points out that the prodigal son’s decision was not a reproach directed at his family.
The Chief Apostle makes an important promise: “God also loves those who no longer attend the divine services.” He continues to be with them and has the desire to save everyone.
The congregation as an open home
For those who find their way back home, the congregation should be a place where they feel loved and accepted. The congregation should welcome these lost members back with open arms, just as the father welcomed his lost son. The Chief Apostle notes that everyone should be able to experience the divine treasures on the day they decide to return. “We hope that they will return to the Church sooner or later,” the Chief Apostle explains. To this end it is important to focus on the joy of their return and not the possible hurts that may have led to their leaving—and live love. “Let us prepare ourselves to welcome these ‘lost children’ just as the father welcomed his lost son,” he added.
Lasting hope for the future
“Nobody is lost,” the Chief Apostle emphasises. Even if people distance themselves from the Church, there is the hope that they will one day appreciate the congregation again and find their way back. “The greatest service we can render to them is to continue serving Christ in the Church!” Jean-Luc Schneider continued. There is no limitation to God’s love, and the congregation can and should be a role model in this. “Our mission is to show people the way to Christ,” the Chief Apostle explained, “but also—and above all—to inspire them to come to Him.” These words of the Chief Apostle are to serve as an encouragement to intercede actively and keep the gospel alive for all those who will one day long for it.
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