A faith-filled summer bucket list for families
This summer, grow closer to God—and each other. Summer isn’t just a break from school and schedules. It’s a chance to realign your home with purpose, peace, and presence. When families carve out intentional time for faith, the memories made aren’t just fun—they’re formative.
Whether you have toddlers, teens, or somewhere in between, these faith-centered ideas will help your family slow down, reconnect, and draw nearer to God this season.
⛪ 1. Visit a Historic Church or Cathedral
Make a pilgrimage close to home. Plan a family field trip to a nearby historic church, basilica, or cathedral. Before you go, read up on its story—what community built it? What saints or revivals are connected to it? When you arrive, pause for a moment of silent prayer. Light a candle, take in the architecture, and reflect on how God has been faithful to generations before you.
Faith takeaway: “We’re part of a much bigger story.”
📖 2. Memorize a Psalm Together by the Pool
Scripture + sunshine = heart work.
Pick a short Psalm—like Psalm 23, 100, or 121—and memorize it as a family over the summer. Repeat a verse each day during a relaxed time: by the pool, on the porch, or before bedtime. Make it playful: use hand motions, chalk art, or songs.
Faith takeaway: “God’s Word can live in our hearts—anywhere.”
🌳 3. Unplug on Sundays
Rediscover the joy of a screen-free Sabbath.
Choose one day a week—maybe Sunday—to power down devices and power up presence. Replace screen time with nature walks, board games, Scripture reading, or a family picnic after church. Watch how conversation, laughter, and peace re-enter the atmosphere.
Faith takeaway: “Rest is worship. Distraction-free time honors God.”
🌱 4. Plant Something
Let creation be your classroom.
Whether it’s a backyard garden or a few pots on the porch, plant seeds together and talk about patience, growth, and God’s timing. Read parables like the sower and the mustard seed while you water and weed.
Faith takeaway: “God grows things we can’t always see—inside us, too.”
🙏 5. Start a Gratitude Jar
Turn small joys into spiritual practice.
Set out a jar and some slips of paper. Every day, each family member writes down one thing they’re thankful for. It could be silly or sacred—“ice cream after dinner” or “answered prayer.” Read them aloud at the end of summer or when someone needs encouragement.
Faith takeaway: “Gratitude turns ordinary days into worship.”
💛 6. Family Kindness Challenge
Make love your summer mission.
Challenge your family to perform one act of kindness per day. Hold the door, write notes of encouragement, donate toys, pray for a neighbor. Make a chart or journal to track how you’ve loved others.
Faith takeaway: “We reflect God’s heart when we serve others.”
🕊 7. “Worship Outside” Night
Take church to the backyard.
Grab a guitar, a Bible, or just your voices and hold a simple worship night outside. Sing songs, read a parable, and pray together under the stars. Let your kids help lead—it doesn’t need to be polished, just heartfelt.
Faith takeaway: “God is present wherever we invite Him.”
Does reading about faith inspire you? Do you have a story or information about your faith you want to share? Tell us more!
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