Growing Together in Faith: Strengthened by Biblical Truth

Fathers and Sons Gather to Explore Biblical Manhood

Last week, seventh and eighth-grade boys and their fathers gathered at Second Baptist School for a special time of fellowship and learning. The event, held in The Hall, featured breakfast and meaningful conversation with tables of eight set up to encourage connection. If a father was unable to attend, another male family member stepped in to share this important time.

Kyle Parrish, Married Life Pastor at Second Baptist Church’s Woodway campus, delivered a powerful message centered on Psalm 86:11: “...unite my heart to fear Your name.” He challenged fathers and sons to fully grasp the awe and reverence due to God’s name, emphasizing that recognizing this is the first step toward a heart rightly aligned with Him. Kyle spoke of how biblical leadership flows from this reverence, encouraging men to lead their families with love, wisdom and humility.

The morning wasn’t just about listening; it was a chance for fathers and sons to connect in a meaningful way. Each father or male family member was encouraged to have an intentional discussion with their son about what it means to lead in a God-honoring way. In small group settings, these discussions allowed for honest reflection on the challenges and responsibilities of manhood in today’s world. Rooted in the story of Joshua, Kyle reminded the boys that God created them to be strong and courageous, even when the world’s expectations feel confusing.

The event was a powerful reminder that biblical leadership begins with a heart united in reverence for the Lord, equipping men to love and lead their families well. Fathers and sons left with not only a message to reflect on but also a deeper connection with one another.

Girls Fellowship: Trusting God and Building Community

While the boys gathered with their fathers, the seventh and eighth-grade girls participated in their own time of fellowship designed to strengthen bonds and equip them with biblical tools to face the challenges of middle school. Led by Middle School Counselor Janet Harrison, the girls were placed into small groups with teachers who guided discussions centered on managing stress and leaning on God in times of trouble.

During the session, the girls explored scriptures that spoke directly to the pressures they face, finding comfort in God’s promises of peace and strength. The teachers provided practical advice on how to seek help when overwhelmed, encouraging the girls to rely on their faith and each other when navigating stressful moments.

Janet explained that the goal of these fellowship mornings is to build a Christ-centered caring community where the girls can grow closer to one another and find support in their faith. By encouraging small group discussions, the event created a safe environment for the girls to share their experiences and lean on the wisdom of their teachers. As they left, the girls were reminded that they are never alone in their struggles and that God is always with them, offering guidance and comfort.