Dr. Dave Rueter, author of Teaching the Faith at Home: What Does This Mean? How Is This Done?, joins host Elizabeth Pittman for this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast to talk about the importance of teaching the faith to children. 

Learn more about his work and get a copy of Dave’s book by visiting cph.org.

Show Notes:
What does teaching the faith at home really mean – and how is it done?

Author Dave Rueter answers these questions – and more – as he sits down with Elizabeth to discuss the purpose of taking faith education outside the classroom as churches and schools prepare for a new school year. Dave digs into the meaning of catechesis, why it’s vital for parents to be involved in their children’s faith journeys, the challenges of teaching the faith in blended and single parent families, and some strategies for lifelong catechesis. 

Questions:

·         What is catechesis anyway? 

·         Why is it important to put energy into building a catechesis culture in our congregations?

·         Why does the church struggle with confirmation?

·         Why is it essential that parents are involved in teaching the faith to their children?

·         Why is a relationship with the family, not just the student, so important in catechesis? 

·         What challenges are present when teaching the faith in blended or single parent homes? How can the church help?

·         What tips/advice can you share about how to increase biblical literacy in students, especially as they undergo confirmation classes?

·         What are some common misconceptions people have about confirmation?

·         What are some strategies for lifespan catechesis?

·         Why does Martin Luther’s Small Catechism hold up so well today, even though it was written in the 1500s?

About the Guest

Dr. David Rueter is the Director of Ministry Engagement at Our Savior Lutheran Ministries working to provide a cohesive approach to ministry across the church, school, and preschool. Dr. Rueter is a commissioned DCE, who has served for more than 25 years in congregations, on faculty at Concordia University Irvine, and on staff at the Pacific Southwest District. He is married to Andrea and the proud father of James and Wesley. For more from Dr. Rueter, visit teachingthefaithathome.org.