Missional parenting and missional fatherhood as a buffer against father absence and fatherlessness in South Africa

Abstract

This paper focuses on missional parenting and fatherhood. In the 21st century, families are undergoing multiple crises, with many of them experiencing the absence of a fatherly presence. As a result, numerous missiologists emphasise the role of church as the vision of God’s mission (missio Dei). The church is compelled to support parents in nurturing their children in faith. The term "missional" has a profound meaning; it is not merely a Christian buzzword or catchphrase for families to appear spiritual. Missional is an activity of God, rooted in Scripture and modelled by Christ. Missional parenting involves parents modelling and educating children in God’s compassion for people. Missional fatherhood signifies that fathers should lead sacrificial lives for the sake of their families.

Keywords

• missional parenting
• missional fatherhood
• father absence
• fatherlessness