Youcat commented through CCC – Question n. 372 – Part IV.

YOUCAT Question n. 372 – Part IV. How do parents respect their children?

(Youcat answer - repeated) God entrusted children to parents so that they might be steady, righteous examples for those children, that they might love and respect them and do everything possible so that their children can develop physically and spiritually.   

A deepening through CCC

(CCC 2227) Children in turn contribute to the growth in holiness of their parents (Cf. GS 48 § 4). Each and everyone should be generous and tireless in forgiving one another for offenses, quarrels, injustices, and neglect. Mutual affection suggests this. The charity of Christ demands it (Cf. Mt 18:21-22; Lk 17:4).      

Reflecting and meditating 

(Youcat comment) Children are a gift from God and not the property of the parents. Before they are their parents’ children, they are God’s children. The primary duty of parents is to present to their children the Good News and to communicate the Christian faith to them. 

(CCC Comment)

(CCC 2228) Parents' respect and affection are expressed by the care and attention they devote to bringing up their young children and providing for their physical and spiritual needs. As the children grow up, the same respect and devotion lead parents to educate them in the right use of their reason and freedom.        

(This question: How do parents respect their children? is continued)