Pastor Talks on Family Life

California, 1922

Need of God in the family life was emphasized in a sermon by Rev. Arthur E. Paterson, pastor of Pilgrim Congregational church, yesterday morning. The more family life is cherished and built around the abiding presence of God, the more it will minister to the development of the individual and the betterment of the community, according to Rev. Paterson.

"The tactful guidance of a wise father and a discerning mother goes far in forming the habit of making right choices in life," Rev. Paterson said. "Where possible home instruction of the child is excellent for both parent and child. Throughout the many years of school and college the interest and co-operation of parents in studies and hobbies mean a great deal.

"The family life should be a help to the social enjoyments of life rather than a hindrance. Fortunate is the young person when newly-made friends can be brought into the home circle and welcomed there.

"The modern family does not live unto itself. It can make its influence felt throughout the community. Only as the family life of our country becomes less self-centered and more God-filled can our loved America play her destined part in the world life of the great family of God's children."

—Oakland Tribune, Oakland, CA, Aug. 21, 1922, p. 8.