In the perpetual child syndrome, a person may be financially on his own, but allows his family of origin to perform certain life management functions. This adult child often hangs out at Mom and Dad's house, vacations with them, drops off laundry, and eatsd many meals there. He is Mom or Dad's closest confidant, sharing "everything" with them. At thirtysomething, he hasn't found his career niche, and he has no savings, no retirement plan, and no health insurance. On the surface these things do not appear to be serious problems. But often, Mom and Dad are symbolically keeping their adult child from emotionally leaving home. (more)

Last Sunday the subject came up in our class discussion on boundaries about how to leave a church. The particular individual who posed the question asked it this way, " What if the main reason that you are staying in a church is because all of your family is there and you would feel guilty if you left?" I didn't really like my reply to the statement, and I plan to recant my reply tomorrow, but I am going to write about it today.

I believe that the main reason that someone should leave a church should be a doctrinal reason. I know there may be exceptions, but they are rare. If your church is doctrinally incorrect and leadership will not seek to reconcile teaching with the Word of God, I think that you probably have no other alternative but to relocate your family to a church that believes, teaches, and preaches the Bible. Sad to say, hardly anyone leaves for this reason. Perhaps another reason to leave a church is if you are not willing to get your attitude right with God, and this rotten attitude is going to affect the unity of the church. My advice is to leave before you do damage, regardless of whether or not your parents are in the church.

I found some interesting thoughts on this subject that I want to share with you. Let me know what you think . . . (more)

Congratulations to Lyn and Seann McSheehy (The Grandparents -- Richard and Sue Akers are also proud!) Luke Edison was born on October 2, 2007 and weighed 8 pounds and 4 ounces and is 21 inches tall. Both Mom and baby are doing well.