The Fourth Commandment - Part 3

The Fourth Commandment – Part 3

Submitted by Thomas Stidl

         In Part 3 of this article, I would like to illustrate the parental duties toward their children.  All parents must provide for their children’s physical and moral needs.  It goes without saying that their children must have a secure shelter, food, clothing, proper moral education and love.  This needs no explanation.

         It is said that parents are the first teachers of their children.  They are also the best teachers.  All parents should control what their children learn inside the home and in the schools where they send their children.  It should not be left to the teachers and the school board of education.  The parents must control their studies.  It is the responsibility of parents to educate their children in morals and spiritual matters.  They must learn the proper ethics to function in society.

         Parents must also realize that they along with their children by the virtue of their Baptism are children of God.  They must show God, themselves, and their children proper respect.  Parents must create an environment in the home of all Catholic values.  They must be honest with their children even when they make mistakes and ask for forgiveness.  Parents should always show good example.

         Parents must also discipline their children with love.  Once the child has been put back on the straight and narrow path, all members of that family should forgive each other in mutual love.  Harsh beatings should not be necessary.  Parents should always keep close watch on their children to avoid unnecessary problems.  Parents must be careful as to whom the child associates.  Their friends should not destroy the moral fiber that parents have taught.  Children must listen to their parents and carry out their wishes especially with curfews and the like.  However, if the parental wish causes a child to sin, the child is free from the obligation of obedience.

         As the child matures he will develop skills that will point him in a career direction along with all of his or her natural talents.  Parents should not stand in the child’s way, but they should counsel them to be more successful in their future endeavors.  They should explain to the child both the greatness of the chosen career and all the pitfalls including the economic benefits and all the work necessary to obtain those benefits.  Above and beyond all, the child must enjoy the work that he does in society and it must allow them to begin a new family with all the economic resources that can earn.

         All these practical ideas should help raise a loving caring adult ready to take their place in a society that is sorely in need of fixing.

         Until next time, Laus Tibi, Christe.  Deo Gratias.  Gloria Tibi Domini.  Praise be to God.  See you in Paradise.