A Note from
Pastor Mike

Even if you are part of a strong family with open communication, most parents want a closer relationship with their teens. I know of very few Christian parents that are not longing for their children to be growing spiritually deeper on a weekly, even daily basis. However, there are only a small percentage of Christian parents today that have an intentional plan in place to disciple their family. The sad realization is that most families don’t have any form of discipleship taking place outside of the church walls, or inside the walls of their homes. The majority of today’s parents are willing to set aside time in their busy schedules to take their child to a variety of sporting events, school activities or practices. But many parents find it difficult to invest the time needed to disciple their children in the way of our Creator, our Lord. We claim His name, but we do not make time for Him in our homes. Sure, we pray before meals, and bedtime, we might even talk about the sermon on the way home, but many families today just aren’t making God a priority. Being a straight “A” student, winning a full paid sports scholarship to college and playing an instrument are all worthy achievements. However, if we are not willing to disciple our children, showing them how to bring God the glory in each of their accomplishments, what good are these successes in the scheme of eternity? Our Student and Family Ministry at Heritage is striving to equip parents and their teens with ways in which to invest in and apply discipleship in their daily family activities. We do not consider this Ministry to be the foundation for any students spiritual well being, but we are excited about the opportunity to partner with parents in their God given role.

Because HE LIVES,
Mike Richards
Student and Family Pastor