How Grandparents Can Pass On Their Faith

October 10, 2026

Grandparents hold a special place in a child's heart. You have time, perspective, stories, and a kind of patience that often comes with age. You also have a powerful opportunity to help shape a grandchild's faith.

A biblical calling

Psalm 145:4: "One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts."

Proverbs 17:6: "Children's children are the crown of old men."

Paul reminded Timothy that his faith first lived in his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice (2 Timothy 1:5). A grandmother's faith helped shape one of the early church's leaders.

10 ways to pass on your faith

1. Tell your story. Share how you came to know God, prayers He answered, and how He carried you through hard times. Kids love "when I was your age" stories.

2. Pray for them by name, daily. And tell them you do.

3. Pray with them. At meals, at bedtime when they visit, or over the phone.

4. Read Bible stories together. Keep a children's Bible at your house.

5. Take them to church when they stay with you (with their parents' blessing).

6. Write letters. A handwritten note with a verse is something they may keep for life.

7. Give meaningful gifts. A faith-filled gift can become a treasured reminder. Browse our Christian gift ideas.

8. Do projects together. Bake for a neighbor, garden, or put together a Christian puzzle while you talk.

9. Be their safe place. Sometimes kids will tell grandparents things they won't tell parents. Listen well and point them back to God and their parents.

10. Live it. Let them see your faith in how you handle aging, illness, loss, and joy.

If you live far away

Video calls with a short Bible story or prayer
Mail care packages and cards on holidays and random days
Send a weekly verse text to older grandkids
Record yourself reading Bible stories

Honor the parents

Support your grandchildren's parents, even if their approach differs from yours. Encourage, don't undermine. If the parents don't share your faith, respect their boundaries and let your love and life speak.

If your grandchildren aren't hearing about God at home

Your prayers, kindness, and example may be the primary picture of faith they see. Never underestimate that. Stay patient, loving, and prayerful.

A prayer for grandparents

Lord, thank You for my grandchildren. Let my faith be a blessing to them. Give me wisdom, patience, and opportunities to share Your love. Draw their hearts to You, and let our family's faith continue for generations. Amen.

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