AFFILIATIVE STAGE / AGES 7-11

The primary mode of spiritual engagement is belonging to a community. “This is what we believe and do. This is our church. I follow Jesus because you follow Jesus. We are following Jesus together.” 

In this stage, the child begins to personally identify with the spiritual community (family, church, etc.) and finds great meaning and joy in belonging to the group. The child continues to imitate the parents’ spiritual behavior, but no longer out of pure instinct. There is a growing desire to be like mom and dad, and to be part of the group. Communal spiritual experiences, especially alongside parents and other adults, are extremely beneficial during this stage. 

As the child grows and matures, their primary sense of belonging will shift  from family to peers, so helping the child foster meaningful friendships within the faith community is also important.