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When a Spouse Is Less Active

One difficult thing that many members of the church face is when their spouses choose to stop attending church. This can happen for a variety of reasons. You may have joined without your spouse and so you attend church alone, or your spouse may be going through a difficult time in his or her life. It can be difficult to continue to attend church on your own. However it is important that you continue to do so. Your example and faith will influence your spouse for the better. Here are some tips that might make it easier.

1) Attend church regularly. It is easier to keep a good habit up than it is to start going again. If you go on a regular basis, your spouse will know what to expect each Sunday morning. Your example of making it a priority will bear simple testimony of the importance of the church to you.

2) Take your children with you to church. This is important for your children so that they can continue to grow in the gospel. It may seem difficult to take your children all by yourself, especially when they are toddlers. Children learn behavior at a young age, and they will enjoy church more if they go on a regular basis. You may ask other ward members for help if you need it. I am sure that they would be willing to help you.

3) Continue to have family home evening, scripture study and family prayer together. If your spouse does not want to participate then do not pressure her to do so. You may want to plan family home evenings around lessons, which are not as gospel oriented because this will give her the opportunity to continue to bond with the family in a positive way.

4) Do not nag your spouse to attend church. This can cause feelings of resentment to grow between you. Be accepting and supportive of your spouse. You may want to invite him to attend church with you occasionally, but do so in a non-threatening way.

These suggestions will help bring a spirit of peace into your home. Sometimes spouses return to church activity after awhile; sometimes they do not. This can be a heartbreaking experience for any family. Remember to pray for your spouse, and continue to love and support him. I have seen people change because of the good examples their families set. What are some things you have done when your spouse has chosen to stop attending church?