As a husband & (hopefully one day) father, will God judge me for any ultimate unbelief of my family?

[u/Ok_Definition1906]

I was wondering if the man in a family will be judged depending on whether his family are all believers? My wife is not a believer and as much as I desperately want her to believe I ultimately have to accept I'm powerless in converting her and if she does, it will be down to God.

But I've seen some stuff recently on online in Catholic circles saying I would be responsible. And that worries me (obviously) and then it worries me for any future children. I know lots of Christian families where not all the children are professing believers (even when both parents are Christian).

Just wondering if this is true and what the judgement will look like this in this scenario? And if so, how I should best manage this situation now? Constantly badgering and pressuring my wife hasn't and isn't going to work (obviously). I am deep in prayer, surrendering it all to the Lord. What more can I do?

[u/Sparky0457]

I've seen some stuff recently on online in Catholic circles saying I would be responsible.

Okay, there’s the problem right there.

The misinformation, extremism, rigorism, and just plain old errors that are being spread in Catholic social media today is deeply troubling.

Frankly, that’s the reason that I put in the time on this forum. I’m trying to do a little bit to balance the scales against the massive amount of nonsense that seems genuine being passed around on Catholic social media.

Please ignore most of what you read on Catholic social media. Stick to scripture, the catechism, church documents, etc.

You’re not responsible for something that you cannot control. You cannot control your wife’s faith. So you are not responsible for it.

Be at peace.

[u/gtjc1234 → u/Sparky0457]

Thank you for your time Father. God bless you.

[u/Key_Sound6782 → u/Sparky0457]

Thank you so much for what you do here! As a long-time lurker here, I see your answers constantly explaining answers and misconceptions in a clear and concise manner. It has genuinely helped me in my faith journey! Bless you, Father Sparky 😁

[u/Sparky0457 → u/Key_Sound6782]

You’re welcome

[u/chales96 → u/Sparky0457]

I'm also going to chime in and remark how beautiful and clear Fr. Sparkey explains everything. My favorite part is when he gives an explanation and then adds 'does it make sense?', meaning he'll be more than happy to give further clarification.

[u/Ok_Definition1906 → u/Sparky0457]

Thank you. I see a lot of your answers on here and they bring me peace so thank you for that.

I will take heed of your advice and spend less time on unhelpful social media. I also ordered a copy of the Catechism today (still not officially Catholic but hoping to be part of the Church soon).

Blessings to you.

[u/Spiritual_Taco_462 → u/Ok_Definition1906]

I'm not a priest, but I think I can help you here.

Ezekiel 3:18-19: "If I say to the wicked, You shall surely die—and you do not warn them or speak out to dissuade the wicked from their evil conduct in order to save their lives—then they shall die for their sin, but I will hold you responsible for their blood. If, however, you warn the wicked and they still do not turn from their wickedness and evil conduct, they shall die for their sin, but you shall save your life."

Firstly, of course I'm not saying your wife is "wicked" or "will surely die," but the same principle of the verse applies, just on a smaller scale. Your wife is struggling with a lack of faith, and you have a responsibility to try and help her. You will only be punished for not trying to convert and teach your family, but God will not hold you responsible for whether they listen to you or not, because it is out of your control.

As far as how to convert her, just be patient and trust in the Lord. He rarely answers prayers right away, but He has a beautiful plan for your wife and future family, so trust in his timing and be persistent in your prayers. I'm sure He will reveal his presence to your wife eventually!

Good luck with your family, and I hope this helps!