The birth or adoption of a baby is an exciting time in the life of a family. Churches often do a wonderful job helping parents welcome their new child into the world with baby showers and hospital visits. Yet the need for support and encouragement continues beyond the first week of life. Here are some ways that you can help new parents stay connected with their church family:

• Organize meals for the family for at least the first two weeks after the child's arrival.
• Take time to call or visit the new parents. The first months can be a lonely time, particularly when freedom to go out is limited.
• Show interest in the baby's new activities when talking to new parents. If you are an experienced parent, be an available resource person. Oftentimes, the best resource is a good listener.
• Provide free babysitting so that couples can have an evening alone to nurture their relationship and enjoy a few quiet moments together.
• Encourage new parents that their children will be okay in the nursery without belittling their feelings of anxiety. Offer kind assurance that the child will receive good care.
• Offer patience and understanding to parents who take some time away from duties and responsibilities within the church. Let them know that they are still an important part of the church.
• Create a private, comfortable sitting area in your church where moms who are caring for their babies can hear and see the service.
• Try to maintain consistent staff in your nursery. This reassures the parents that there is someone who is learning their child's needs and wants and can decrease a child's separation anxiety.

Jason and Amber Gunter attend Trinity Church of the Nazarene in Oklahoma City and are the parents of a baby girl, Julia Joy.

Please note: All facts, figures, and titles were accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of original publication but may have since changed.