In this episode, Candice interviews Lisa Shumway, a mother of five and an active moderator in the Bridges Facebook group for LDS parents of adult children. Lisa shares her deeply personal journey of raising children who have stepped away from the LDS Church, the complexities of their individual paths, and her own evolving faith. She discusses the impact of her children's unique challenges, such as medical issues and autism, on her family dynamics, and how these experiences shifted her mindset away from a transactional view of faith. Lisa also reflects on her changing political views during the pandemic, particularly regarding LGBTQ issues, and how she reconciled those with her religious beliefs. The conversation delves into her nuanced relationship with the church community, including coping strategies for dealing with challenging church messages, and underscores the importance of self-acceptance and following Christ's teachings. The episode concludes with Lisa's spiritual confirmation of God's love for her children and her commitment to helping others in need.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:52 Lisa's Family Background
01:46 Challenges with Children's Faith
04:50 Navigating Family Dynamics
09:15 Health Struggles and Realizations
12:03 Shifting Perspectives on Faith
25:22 Political and Social Reevaluations
28:00 Current Church Experience
33:24 Spiritual Experiences and Conclusion
You found me! If what you heard on the No Empty Chairs podcast gives you hope for more help, please schedule a free Conversation with Candice. You can also visit candiceclarkcoaching.com for more information about how coaching tools can help you keep your relationship with your children and your faith. While you're there, be sure to pull up a chair and sign up with your email to be the first to know about news and events for moms whose kids don't come to church.
It's going to be okay, and even better!
