Randy HainSexting, drugs, alcohol, cyber-bullying, teen suicide, rampant materialism, technology addiction, and me-first mindsets—the list of challenges to young people today can seem overwhelming.  As parents of two sons, I feel like my wife and I are on the front lines of a never-ending war for the very souls of our children.  I would love to tell you that we have the upper hand in this ongoing struggle, but some days I am not so sure.

My wife and I often feel worn out from the daily challenges of protecting our boys from the worst excesses of the surrounding culture, while also teaching them how to live in the real world with their faith and values intact.  Granted, we know full well our vocation is to get ourselves and our children to Heaven. There is no greater calling for us. But we honestly feel like we are swimming against the current much of the time.

Prayer is always a source of comfort. We pray daily for Jesus to help us with our challenges and to watch over our sons.  I am not sure how we would make it through a single week as parents without our Catholic faith. …

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