jones_lisaThree years ago, when my oldest daughter started public school, she began learning more about other faiths. In Kindergarten, she came home wanting to know why we didn’t have a menorah at Christmas like two of her classmates, so I reminded her they celebrated Hanukkah, which is different from Christmas. Our discussion of the different holidays led her to then ask me, "What is Jewish and how are they different?" A great question from my then five year old daughter.

While we talked about the differences in the Jewish faith and Christianity, I noticed tears forming in her eyes. I couldn’t imagine what I’d said to upset her. She tearfully asked me how anyone could not believe that Jesus was God’s son that He sent to save us? I tried to gently remind her that not everyone believes as we do, and different people believe different things, especially about faith and religion. Then she smiled and said, "That’s ok Mommy, I can explain it to them tomorrow on the playground."

In my head, I could already imagine the phone calls I was about to receive regarding my daughter evangelizing at recess.  After a talk, she and I agreed that if someone asked her, then she could take that opportunity to discuss it with him or her privately.   Since she is such a gentle soul and truly wishes all the best for her friends it was difficult to explain the delicate etiquette of evangelizing on the playground at a public school.   I am pleased to say, on this her last day of 2nd grade, that she has found her own unique way over the last few years to share her faith with her friends without stepping on any toes and without me receiving any calls from distressed parents.


Copyright 2010 Lisa Jones

About the Author

Lisa Henley Jones

Lisa Henley Jones

Lisa Henley Jones is a wife, mom, native Texan, and parish communications director. She enjoys reading, walking, going on date nights, and cheering on her kids in their activities. As a social media consultant, Lisa teaches Catholic parishes to engage, inspire, and evangelize on social media. Find her blog at Of Sound Mind & Spirit and her social media course at Parish Social Media.