24/04/2017
FAN THE FIRE 2017
To all E7K fathers and wives (yes, this message is for your wives too!),
Elijah7000 is sounding the trumpet again to gather Christian fathers to FAN THE FIRE. This time, we sense the need to focus on the theme - Restoring Family Foundations. Let me explain.
Research shows that ‘it is the father who overwhelmingly determines the moral and spiritual development of the children.’ A Swiss study published in 2000 showed that ‘it is the religious practice of the father of the family that, above all, determines the future church attendance of the children.’ And according to an MSNBC study, ‘teenagers whose fathers are more involved in their lives are less likely to engage in risky s*xual activities……. While an involved mother can also help stave off a teen’s s*xual activity, dads have twice the influence.’
The above quotes are based on overseas research. But what about Christian fathers in Singapore? How are we doing? Well, in 2016, a total of 7,209 respondents from 10 churches participated in a survey on the state of family including fatherhood, in Singapore. If what was found represents the Church and Christian fathers at large, then there is great cause for concern, not just for Christian homes, but also for our next generation because the signs are far from ideal. For example, whilst 79% of the Christian youths and young adults believe that parents have the primary responsibility in teaching s*x and s*xuality, in reality, only 20% of youths and 13% of young adults said they learned s*x and s*xuality from their parents.
The key findings were presented to 162 pastors and church leaders from 71 churches and 4 Christian organisations a month ago, in March. Although these leaders are taking action to reverse the trends, the responsibility to build Christian homes and raise Godly children must rest with fathers and supported by mothers. So come and hear what our local research is telling us about the state of Christian family and fatherhood in Singapore. We will also share with you what we can do, individually as a father, and collectively as a community of fathers, to turn the tide.
But do not come alone. Bring your wife. And help spread the word to other Christian fathers that you know.
Blessings,
Jason Wong
Chairman, Elijah7000
Fan the Fire Gathering 2017
Theme : Restoring Family Foundations
Date : Saturday, 13th May 2017
Time : 9.00am – 1200nn
Venue : Main Sanctuary, K*m Yan Methodist Church.
Carpark : SMU Admin Building, NTUC Income or 261 Waterloo Centre (HDB carpark)
Registration: https://e7k-ftf17.eventbrite.com
Enquiry : [email protected]