Will Our Children Have Faith?

Will Our Children Have Faith? by John H. Westerhoff is a revised edition published by Morehouse Pub. in 2000, comprising 143 pages. This book critiques the traditional approaches to Christian education, arguing that it has largely mirrored the secular schooling model. Westerhoff emphasizes that faith formation should occur in various contexts, such as family, church, and school, rather than being confined to Sunday classes. He questions whether children truly learn or experience faith through conventional religious education.

In this edition, readers will find a new foreword that encapsulates Westerhoff’s faith journey and reflections on the original material. Each chapter concludes with notes that highlight his rethinking of key concepts since the book’s initial release in 1976. Additionally, a new Afterword addresses contemporary contexts and their implications for catechetical ministry, inviting readers to consider how communities can better nurture the faith of children beyond mere factual instruction. This work engages with themes of religion and Christian education, making it a significant contribution to discussions on faith formation.