Take the Children to Church
“SHOULD little children be taken to church?”—Certainly. Begin early and keep it up constantly. “But suppose they do not understand anything about the service?”—No matter about that; take them. The habit of going is a good one. Besides, the very atmosphere will benefit their natures. “But suppose they disturb others?”—That will be your fault; nevertheless take them. “But suppose they cry and act wilfully, and are very naughty?”—That is no excuse for leaving them at home. It may show several unpleasant things, but keep on taking them. It may possibly show (1) that they inherit from you a fretful disposition; (2) that in your eagerness to make them look pretty you have dressed them uncomfortably; (3) that they may be ill from lack of sleep or from improper feeding; (4) that they are so full of life and exuberance of spirits that they must be in action. This last is very hopeful. Whatever be the case, do not fail to take them Sabbath after Sabbath, year in and year out. In some cases sit near the door, and step out with a child for a few minutes rather than have others annoyed. “But some people say they were taken to church so much when they were young that they now dislike church.” Ten times more dislike church because they were not taken when young. This excuse for neglect is probably manufactured, and is not given in sincerity. Take all the children to church.—Selected.