Description
Family Discipleship: Exploring an Effective Partnership of Home and Congregation
Christian Smith, co-author of “Handing Down the Faith,” wrote, “All research in the United States today shows clearly that parents are by far the most important factor influencing their children’s religion, not only as youth but also after they leave home. Not clergy, religious schools, youth ministers, neighborhoods, Sunday school, mission trips, service projects, summer campus, peers or the media. Parents.” Yet, this research also shows that congregations have an important part in teaching the faith, connecting families in community and inspiring parental “religiousness.” This workshop will explore the subject from several angles — Scripture, Small Catechism, current literature/research/practices for application in homes and congregations using a “map for family discipleship” navigated with “new creational wisdom” centered in Christ.
Dr. Mart Thompson
Associate Professor of Practical Theology, and Director of Specific Ministry Pastor Program
Dr. W. Mart Thompson is associate professor of Practical Theology and director of Specific Ministry Program (SMP) at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. As an associate professor, Thompson’s areas of experience and expertise include pastoral theology, catechesis, new member incorporation, small group spiritual care, and youth and family discipleship. As director of the SMP program, he oversees all aspects of this ministry formation program at Concordia Seminary and provides synod-wide support to The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) leaders in the application of the program.
Schedule
| DAY | TIME |
|---|---|
| Tuesday, July 7 | 1-8 p.m. |
| Wednesday, July 8 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. |
Registration deadline: June 23, 2026
Location contact: District President Brady Finnern
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Note: The schedule is subject to change at the discretion of the workshop presenters.