It’s one thing to have children. Providing them with love and security, and raising them with character, is another. In an age when common sense too often gives way to the opinions of experts, Johann Christoph Arnold’s Why Children Matter offers an approach to child rearing that is grounded in faith and old-fashioned in the best sense.
Arnold doesn’t mince words, but he isn’t dogmatic either and he shows genuine concern for the plight of parents faced with difficult child-rearing decisions. His wisdom is not self-taught but rather reflects the experience and tradition of generations of pastors and teachers who have guided schools, parents, and children for centuries.
As the fabric of family (and society) is torn apart, this book offers up concrete steps to bolster and encourage all parents who want to pass on to their children the values their parents gave them. Why Children Matter affirms the belief that children can still be raised the right way, despite the pressures of a sickened culture around us.
Written in the simple, accessible language that comes only from immense learning and understanding. – The Hon. John Anderson AO, Former Deputy Prime Minister of Australia
An approach to parenting that is time-tested, completely up-to-date, and solidly grounded in faith. Arnold offers concrete steps to encourage parents. – Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York
Will give hope to all who are looking for wisdom and practical guidance when it comes to raising children. – W. Bradford Wilcox, National Marriage Project, University of VA (USA)
Emphasises the importance of faith, hope and charity in raising children to be responsible members of their community. – Senator the Hon. Ursula Stephens, Parliamentary Christian Fellowship, Australia
This book has nourished my priorities. A wonderful contribution. – Rev. Tim Costello AO, CEO, World Vision Australia
Written with passion and compassion. Arnold’s love for God and children shines through every page. It is a pleasure to recommend this fine book. – Bishop Peter Brain, Bishop of Armidale, retired
This is a wise, practical and helpful book that deserves wide readership. – The Hon. Kevin Andrews MP, Minister for Social Services, Australia
Arnolds words ring true and are desperately needed. --
Alice von Hildebrand, Ph.D. Hunter College
Arnold reminds us of what we have lost in a clear and simple way. He shows us in one chapter after another the beauty of fatherhood and motherhood, the joy and profound importance of being a parent. He tells of the difficulties of family life but never lets us forget that these difficulties are more than worth it, for as we raise our children well we are engaged in sacred work, caring for new lives that were created in the image and likeness of God. For all those whose understanding of human life has been confused and clouded by our shallow contemporary culture, for all who have lost sight of the reasons why children matter, I heartily recommend this little book. --Fr. Benedict Groeschel, Franciscan Friars of the Renewal
About the Author
A noted speaker and writer on the topics of marriage and family, education, and conflict resolution, Johann Christoph Arnold is a senior pastor at the Bruderhof Communities and also serves as chaplain for the local sheriff's department. He has traveled extensively and his books have been translated into more than 20 languages. Born in 1940 to German refugees, he spent his boyhood years in South America, where his parents found asylum during the war; he immigrated to the United States in 1955. He and his wife Verena have been married for 46 years. They have 8 children and 42 grandchildren, but feel that every child they meet is a grandchild.
