Raising a child with an Atheist

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JGheen

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I know generally speaking we should always encourage life, but an old friend recently came to me with a heart-wrenching problem. I’m honestly unsure how to advise her.

Her spouse has recently left the faith and declared all religion is just silly superstition. They don’t have children yet, can/should she hold off on children until her spouse comes back around. Or at least is supportive of religious formation in the children? If the spouse never comes back to the faith, what then?

There is even a slight possibility they will divorce, but assuming this does not happen, how can a faithful Catholic function lovingly in a marriage with an atheist who doesn’t respect the faith? Perhaps this is the larger question.
 
I posted this in the “Family Life” section, but this area might be more appropriate. Please forgive the double post.

I know generally speaking we should always encourage life, but an old friend recently came to me with a heart-wrenching problem. I’m honestly unsure how to advise her.

Her spouse has recently left the faith and declared all religion is just silly superstition. They don’t have children yet, can/should she hold off on children until her spouse comes back around. Or at least is supportive of religious formation in the children? If the spouse never comes back to the faith, what then?

There is even a slight possibility they will divorce, but assuming this does not happen, how can a faithful Catholic function lovingly in a marriage with an atheist who doesn’t respect the faith? Perhaps this is the larger question.
 
It can be done but it will be hard. There is a difference between militant atheist and atheist but not in your face about it.

I would recommend getting some tracts to go over with him. If he is still adamant then they should seek counseling on their marriage and definitely any children that might come their way. This is a GRAVE circumstance and she should be using NFP to the max and even avoiding relations all together.
 
With great difficulty…it led to my mom falling away from the Catholic Faith for almost 30 years…and although they had a very happy marriage, I wasn’t baptised and never saw a Catholic church ‘on the inside’ until I was almost 15 and showed interest myself…this was 8 years after my dad died.So, yes you can be happy with a determined atheist who doesn’t want to hear God discussed under his roof…you won’t be able to raise your children Catholic that way. Just my personal experience.

Anna x
 
Thanks for the (name removed by moderator)ut. It’s not a good situation. 😦
 
I think this is a very tough call and should be discussed with a Spiritual Director, Catholic counselor, or pastor.

I can only imagine how devastated your friend must feel.
 
You know St.Monica prayed 40 years for her errant son, Augustine. And he became our greatest saint as a result of her intercession. When you pray, ask for her intercession as well. Believe me, prayer moves mountains, and gives you the strength and endurance to endure all things with God’s mercy. This is more than just a few words…it is truth. I have seen it work in my own life! Just preach often to your spouse…and when necessary use words as St.Francis of Assisi said.
 
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