What are Our Roles as Fathers and Mothers?
The responsibility of parents is outlined in “The Family: a Proclamation to the World.” It outlines roles for both men and women. The powers of procreation are to be only used between husband and wife. We are told that it is God’s plan for us to multiply and replenish the earth by having children. Men are to be providers, to preside over the family, and to support their wives as mothers. Women are to bear and love the children and to support their husband in his duties. Mormons believe that as parents, we are to teach our children through example. We are to encourage them to live the principles of the gospel and follow God’s commandments. Parents should support and encourage their children to become baptized. In the Doctrine and Covenants 68:25-26, 28, we read that parents are to “teach their children to pray, and to walk uprightly before the Lord.” The Mormon Church cannot emphasize enough the importance of family recreation. Through spending time with our children, we can strengthen our bonds with them. As parents, we are to spend a sufficient amount of time with our children. Although fathers and mothers are busy with their work schedules and taking care of the family, parents are encouraged to spend quality time with each of their children. Parents are instructed to create a home for their families where the Holy Ghost can be felt by all. The proclamation warns that those who “violate the covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God.” Members of the Mormon religion are to abide by the counsel in this message.
Because man is given agency, parents are not completely responsible for their children’s actions. Mormons are taught that it is the parent’s responsibility to teach proper principles to their children and they can then govern themselves. However, sometimes children rebel against the Lord despite what they have been taught in the home. It can be painful for parents to see their children leave the church and reject Christ in their life. However, God is merciful and forgiving to those who go astray. Parents are to discipline with love and not anger. Abuse of any kind would be unpleasing to the Lord.
A strong family is built upon a strong marriage. Couples are expected to continue to strengthen their marriage through mortality and into eternity. However, the Lord understands that people make mistakes and thus divorce is allowed in the Mormon Church. Those who are in abusive relationships, whether physically or emotionally abusive, are supported by the church in seeking a divorce. However, couples who have lost interest in their marriage or find it too challenging are encouraged to seek counseling and remain committed to each other.
Our family is the most important endeavor we have on this earth. God’s plan provides a way for us to live with our family forever.
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