Summer is the perfect time for families to hit pause on life’s chaos and refocus on what matters most. Beyond the vacations and backyard BBQs, it’s also a golden opportunity to deepen faith connections within your family. When your schedule slows down, why not take intentional steps to grow closer—not just to each other but to God?
Here are a few ideas to make this summer one to remember, filled with faith, love, and purpose.
1. Start Family Devotionals
Kick off your mornings or end your days with a family devotional time. Choose a kid-friendly devotional book or reflect on scripture together. Rotate who reads or shares their thoughts to make it interactive. Keep it simple and short, but meaningful! It’s less about perfection and more about making space for God in your daily rhythm.
Pro Tip: Tie the scripture to real-life situations. For example, if your verse talks about kindness, ask, “How can we show kindness today?” and see how everyone runs with it.
2. Serve Others Together
One of the most powerful ways to strengthen faith is through service. Volunteer as a family at local shelters, food banks, or church outreach programs. Whether you’re packing meals or helping an elderly neighbor with yard work, small acts of service teach compassion, humility, and Christ-like love.
Make It Fun: Turn your service project into a themed day! “Mission Monday” or “Service Saturday” gives the whole family something to look forward to.
3. Explore God’s Creation
Summer and the outdoors go hand in hand. Plan activities that immerse your family in God’s incredible creation. Go hiking, have a picnic in the park, or visit a nearby lake for some swimming and fishing. Use these moments to talk about the beauty and wonder of nature as God’s masterpiece.
Fun Idea: Have a “Creation Scavenger Hunt” during your outing. Find things like a colorful flower, a bird in flight, or a cool-shaped rock.
4. Add Faith to Summer Traditions
You’ve already got the summer traditions down pat, like roasting marshmallows and chasing fireflies. Now add a faith-infused twist! Before dinner, share something you’re grateful for. During a beach trip, take a moment to pray together, thanking God for the beauty of the ocean.
It’s the little things that plant seeds of faith in everyday life.
5. Host “Faith & Movie” Nights
Who doesn’t love a good movie night? Pick family-friendly movies with inspiring or faith-based themes, like The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe or The Prince of Egypt. Snack on popcorn (of course!) and discuss the lessons or spiritual themes after the movie.
Ask Questions: “What do you think God might have taught us through that story?”
6. Join Church Activities
Many churches offer summer programs like Vacation Bible School or mission activities. These events provide great ways to build stronger spiritual connections while meeting others in your faith community. Plus, your kids will love making memories with new friends while learning about Jesus.
Key Tip: Make attending church together a non-negotiable, life-giving part of your routine. Kids thrive on consistency, especially when it’s filled with joy and hope.
7. Reflect Together
Take some time at the end of the summer to talk as a family about the highs, the discoveries, and the moments God felt near. It can be as simple as a dinnertime conversation or something special like a family scrapbook full of photos, prayers, and memories.
Faith is often deepened in reflection, and what better way to celebrate your summer than by looking back at all those God-filled (and fun-filled) moments?
Why It Matters
Faith is a team effort, and your family is the ultimate team. Building a foundation rooted in God’s love equips kids and adults alike to face life’s challenges with courage, hope, and compassion. And a summer spent growing in faith? That’s a summer no one will forget.
Remember, it doesn’t have to be complicated. The simple act of being present, intentional, and loving is enough to create a ripple effect in your family’s spiritual life.
Want to take it further? This summer, make it a goal to grow closer—to each other and to God. The world is busy, but faith invites us to pause and stay rooted in love. 🌟
