Topic: Can you help me in my role as a parent?

Date originally posted: March 20, 2002

Source of this posting: Moderator response to emailed question

Moderator who originally posted this source: K. Martyn

Question: I am sending my 12 year old daughter to Baltimore Lutheran School. I am very happy with the way the school has enriched her life spiritually and educationally. She absolutely loves her school.  My problem:  She wants to convert to the Lutheran church. Frankly, I can't think of any compelling reason to forbid or discourage this. What do you suggest. Thanks for your time.

Answer: 

As a parent myself of two children, one who has been 12 and one who is approaching 12, I firmly believe it is ultimately my responsibility to make the life-altering decisions as long as these young people are minors.  I cannot advocate allowing a minor to make such critical decisions. 

As a Catholic parent, I believe it is my responsibility to honor the promise I made at my children's Baptism in the Catholic Church....

 Celebrant:  "What do you ask of God's Church for (child's name)? 

Parent(s):  "Baptism" 

Celebrant:  "You have asked to have your child baptized.  In doing so you are accepting the responsibility of training him/her in the practice of the faith.  It will be your duty to bring him/her up to keep God's commandments as Christ taught us, by loving God and our neighbor.  Do you clearly understand what you are undertaking?" 

Parent(s):  "We do."

 God entrusted you with the gift of your daughter, only you can decide what is best.