Homeschooling has become a popular choice for many families in recent years. Parents are tasked by God to do what’s best for their kids. But sometimes Lutheran schools aren’t available or Lutheran schools, other Christian schools, or public schools aren’t the best option for a particular student. Homeschooling might be the best option.
While our family has been blessed with Lutheran school opportunities in our lives, we also have chosen the Lutheran homeschool option at times. As a Synodically-trained Lutheran teacher whose dad taught me for three years in a Lutheran school, I found great joy in teaching my own kids, both in Lutheran schools and from home.
Lutheran congregations have long been proponents of Christian education. The Bible says that when we instruct our children in the “discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Eph. 6:4), they will not depart from it (Prov. 22:6).
Martin Luther was a strong proponent of Lutheran education. He made reference to the Fourth Commandment, saying that it not only commands children to obey their parents, but it also teaches what mothers and fathers owe their children. Parents are to show their children the way they should go.
How can Lutheran churches, and especially youth ministries, support homeschooling families? Those with Lutheran schools probably have more opportunities to support homeschooling families, but even churches without schools can connect in unique ways with these students.
One of the most natural areas of support is worship and faith life.
Lutheran schools can invite homeschooling families to participate in weekly chapel services. Homeschool students can be intentionally involved in worship services by serving as ushers, participating in music, helping decorate the sanctuary, and more. I know a homeschooled boy who was available to play for funerals during the week when other organists weren’t available. That 12 year old boy has grown up and will soon be receiving his first Call as a pastor!
Providing space and resources is another valuable way of showing support.
Churches can host homeschool co-ops, either free of charge or at minimal cost. With co-ops, parents and others teach a variety of classes. A church sharing their space can be a powerful show of support! Some homeschooling families who may not have a church home feel connected to this welcoming church and may be curious to connect more to worship and youth ministry.
Another key area is educational support.
Many Lutheran schools welcome homeschoolers to participate in music classes, PE classes, Science Fairs, spelling bees, field trips, etc. These interactions help homeschool students benefit from shared experiences while maintaining their family’s choice of independent education.
Members of the church may offer to help teach co-op classes, sharing their expertise of history, Spanish, art, etc. Lutheran pastors, DCEs, or deaconesses might offer classes in subjects like theology, history, or even Koine Greek. A huge goal is to help parents keep justification by faith in Christ at the heart of their child’s education.
Homeschool youth may have less access to places to play musical instruments or to sing. Making space available for instrumentalists, solos, or space for homeschool choirs or orchestras in worship services, youth fundraisers and service opportunities can be mutually beneficial.
As a youth leader, it may be easier to identify the major milestones of a teen who is in a public or Lutheran school. Dances, performances, sports seasons, and celebrations apply to multiple students and may feel easier to connect with. It is important that you also track homeschooled teen’s milestones and recognize those just as clearly. While their schedules might be less standardized, their experiences of joy and celebration are just as important.
Community matters, too—especially for moms and families who are in the thick of it every day. While other parents may be building community with other parents in their child’s class, homeschool families may have fewer of these connections. Churches can host casual get-togethers like game nights, mom groups, or family events, either for homeschooling families only or in the larger church family. These times of connection and encouragement are helpful to all involved.
Homeschool families may have flexibility to serve in ways others may not.
Consider if especially teens may be available to help trustees, with project prep, and other service work during the week when other students may be in class. This can even help teens connect with the older adults in the congregation, or they may even be able to join in shut in visits. If they are a part of a co-op, Homeschool families can serve side by side—making meals, helping with projects around church, etc. These families often invite others along to things like VBS, helping the church reach even more people.
Homeschooling families are a growing and vibrant part of many congregations, but they are often quietly navigating their educational and spiritual lives without much direct connection to the church. By intentionally supporting homeschool families, Lutheran churches have a unique and natural way to welcome new people, build relationships, and share the Good News of Jesus, our Savior. Supporting homeschool families doesn’t have to mean adding a big, new program. It can be as simple as opening doors, making space, and showing care.
When we welcome and support homeschool families, it’s about so much more than schooling—it’s about loving one another, building relationships, and strengthening the body of Christ together.
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