There is no greater heartbreak for a Christian parent than watching a beloved child drift away from the faith. Yet in today’s world, navigating doubt and rebellion in our kids is increasingly common — and even the most dedicated parents may find themselves walking the painful road of the prodigal.

In this powerful and hope-filled episode, Catherine concludes her two-part “Best Of” series on Gen Z with Laurie Christine , originally aired on Redeeming the Chaos. Together, they tackle the hard questions: How do you parent a child who’s struggling in their faith? How do you protect your relationship and retain influence when your child is questioning, doubting, or rejecting core beliefs? What actions can help draw a wandering heart back — and what parental mistakes might actually push them further away?

Seven Big Reasons Gen Z Is Leaving the Faith
Catherine briefly recaps the top reasons young people cite for leaving Christianity, referencing Barna Research:

1. Struggling with the existence of evil and suffering

2. Perceiving Christians as hypocrites

3. Belief that science contradicts the Bible

4. Dismissing Christianity as a “fairy tale”

5. Disillusionment over injustices in Christian history

6. Apathy or perceived irrelevance of church

7. Negative experiences with Christians or church

Guidance for Parents Navigating a Prodigal Child's Journey
With raw honesty and wisdom, Catherine draws from her own family’s story and years of hosting Christian Parent Crazy World. She and Laurie Christine outline practical steps — and critical mindset shifts — for parents of teens and adult children who are wrestling with faith:

• Prayer is your first line of defense. Catherine emphasizes the unique spiritual authority parents have in prayer over their children, describing the importance of persistent, faith-filled intercession.

• Know your stage of parenting. Are you a caregiver, cop, coach, or counselor? Catherine details how your approach must shift as your child grows, especially in the late teen and adult years.

• Lead with unconditional love. Affirm your love no matter your child’s beliefs or choices. Laurie Christine highlights the importance of commending kids when they open up about doubt or disagreement, not reacting with panic or punishment.

• Set and communicate healthy boundaries. While extending grace, be clear about the behavioral standards for living in your home — but avoid enabling harmful choices.

• Don’t give endless sermons. Teens know what you believe. What they need now is to see the love of Christ in action and to encounter God for themselves.

• Reject the urge to convince, convict, coerce, or control. Catherine unpacks how these tactics either step into God’s role or mirror the enemy’s strategies. Instead, keep your focus on love, wise counsel, and prayer.

• Humble yourself and own your mistakes. Apologize when you’ve erred. Humility builds bridges and trust.

Releasing Guilt and Entrusting Your Child to God
Every parent will wonder “What did I do wrong?” Catherine compassionately reassures listeners that even a perfect parent—God Himself—had two children in the Garden who chose rebellion. She delineates what is a parent’s responsibility, what belongs to the child, and what only God can do. Parents must let go of crushing guilt and trust God’s relentless pursuit of prodigals.

Practical Resources
Catherine references a bundle of free resources for parents of prodigals, including scripture prayer lists and episode archives, available at her website.

Powerful Reminders
Above all, Catherine reminds parents that God’s love is unconditional — “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Christian parents must model this same radical love, never shunning, always hoping, and continually interceding for their children.

Guest Bio:
Laurie Christine is host of Redeeming the Chaos and a mother of four boys. Her passion is equipping moms to raise courageous sons rooted in Christ.

This honest and practical episode is a lifeline for any parent feeling the heartbreak of doubt, struggle, or estrangement. Whether your child is beginning to question, entrenched in rebellion, or seemingly far from God, you’ll find encouragement, wisdom, and hope for the journey.