International—From September 13–20, 2026, families and individuals worldwide participated in HOME, the International Family Week organized by the GC Family Department. Under the theme “Home, where faith begins” the week encouraged participants to spend time with God through daily devotional readings, family discussions, and practical activities.
Feedback received after the event reflected its impact across different households. For some, HOME strengthened an established family-worship routine. For others, it provided encouragement to renew a neglected habit or begin daily worship at home.
“It really resurrected the life that was dead in my family,” a participant from Uganda shared.
The activities helped families put the lessons into practice and experience new ways of connecting with one another. A family from South Africa wrote, “As a family we loved the activities as we gained some experiences we never lived and practiced.” Several families relayed how their hearts were touched by the activities involving communication and words of affirmation.
A participant from Austria particularly appreciated the emphasis on everyday relationships: “For the first time since we have been having Weeks of Prayer, I feel that we are receiving practical advice about everyday life and relationships within the family.” The participant also expressed a desire for more discussions and workshops that help families apply biblical principles to the challenges they face.
Participation extended beyond Reform Movement congregations, reaching families from other denominations, isolated members, and individuals living alone. A participant from Malawi shared:
“It was great. Despite the fact that I stay alone, not yet married, these lessons have given me a lot to learn and understand.”
This testimony highlighted the value of the week for those participating on their own, as well as for families worshipping together.
HOME also became an opportunity for evangelism. Several participants shared the devotionals with co-workers and friends, opening conversations about faith and family life that continued beyond the event. Some recipients asked to be invited to similar initiatives in the future.
These experiences demonstrated how resources intended to nurture faith at home can also help members share that faith with others. A simple invitation or shared devotional became a starting point for continued contact and meaningful conversations.
We thank God for the homes and hearts reached through HOME, and all who participated and shared the materials. While the event has ended, its invitation continues: to make daily worship a lasting part of family life, put biblical principles into practice in our relationships, and share with others the hope found in Christ.
