Larry Fowler
First Person with Wayne Shepherd
Deep Dive
Why is the Legacy Coalition focused on equipping grandparents?
The Legacy Coalition aims to empower grandparents to have a spiritual impact on their grandchildren, recognizing the significant role grandparents play in faith transmission across generations.
What inspired Larry Fowler to start the Legacy Coalition?
Larry Fowler's personal experience with his grandchildren, particularly after his daughter's marriage failed and he became both a father and grandfather, led him to explore the biblical role of grandparents and eventually start the Legacy Coalition.
What are the main challenges grandparents face in influencing their grandchildren?
Grandparents often face geographical, relational, and spiritual distances. These challenges include living far from grandchildren, strained relationships due to family conflicts, and adult children who may be disinterested or antagonistic toward faith.
How can grandparents overcome relational distance with their grandchildren?
To overcome relational distance, grandparents should first reflect on their own actions and consider if they contributed to the strained relationship. They should strive to repair relationships by asking for forgiveness and focusing on building a positive, influential connection.
What is the Legacy Grandparenting Summit, and who can attend?
The Legacy Grandparenting Summit is a national conference focused on Christian grandparenting. It is held in Birmingham, Alabama, and streamed to churches across North America, making it accessible to many grandparents.
What biblical verse inspires Larry Fowler's work with the Legacy Coalition?
Deuteronomy 4:9, which commands leaders to teach the things they have seen to their children and grandchildren, serves as a foundational verse for the Legacy Coalition's mission.
Why is the timing of the Legacy Coalition's work significant?
The timing is significant because the baby boomer generation, now aging into grandparenthood, is healthier and more active than previous generations, making them well-suited to take on the role of faith-based legacy builders.
How can grandparents use technology to stay connected with their grandchildren?
Grandparents can use tools like FaceTime and video calls to maintain regular contact with grandchildren, especially those living at a distance. These tools help bridge the physical gap and keep relationships strong.
What is the significance of the word 'coalition' in the Legacy Coalition's name?
The term 'coalition' reflects the organization's goal to bring together churches, individuals, and ministry leaders who are passionate about intentional Christian grandparenting, emphasizing collaboration over individual efforts.
What advice does Larry Fowler give to grandparents dealing with spiritually distant adult children?
Fowler advises grandparents to lead with grace, avoid pushing their beliefs too strongly, and consider forming prayer groups with other grandparents facing similar challenges. It's also important to reflect on one's own actions and seek forgiveness if necessary.
- Early calling to ministry at age 13
- Challenges in securing a church job after seminary
- 39-year career with Awana, including missionary work
Shownotes Transcript