Picture courtesy of iStockphoto
By Gabriel Isaac Kandewo
1.0 Introduction
The traditional family, a cornerstone of society and the Church, is facing an unprecedented crisis. The recent communique issued by the Bishops of Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe highlights the breakdown of the traditional family setup as one of the significant challenges facing the region. This erosion is a threat not only to society but also to the Church, as the family is the foundation of both society and the Church. The traditional family, characterised by solidarity, love, and unity, is essential to the well-being of society and the Church. However, economic hardships, social media, and social decay have contributed to the erosion of this vital institution.
2.0 The Traditional Family Setup
In African culture and Zimbabwe in particular, the traditional family setup entails the father, mother, and children staying together, sharing meals, and having quality time to discuss and reflect on issues that affect them. This setup provides an opportunity to nurture good behaviour in children, teach them to pray, and strengthen family bonds. The extended family, including cousins and other relatives, was also an integral part of the traditional family setup, ensuring that those in need were taken care of. The family should live in such a way that its members learn to care and take responsibility for the young, the old, the sick, the handicapped, and the poor (CCC 2208). This setup is essential for building a strong and supportive community where families can rely on each other for help and guidance. By living in such a way, families can provide a solid foundation for society and the Church and help to build a more caring and compassionate world.
3.0 Causes of Breakdown of Traditional Family
3.1 The Urban Lifestyle and Global Village or Universal Lifestyle
The urban lifestyle and global village or universal lifestyle have significantly contributed to the breakdown of the family. In his encyclical letter Caritas in Veritate, Pope Benedict XVI highlights the effects of globalisation on the family, stating that “the gradual spread of a globalisation that is centred on the economy and not on the person, and which therefore neglects the latter’s spiritual and cultural dimensions, can lead to the loss of the sense of the family and of the community” (CV 53). This loss of a sense of family and community is further exacerbated by the urban lifestyle, which often prioritises individualism and materialism over family values and relationships. As the Bible warns, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind” (Romans 12:2). The Catechism of the Catholic Church also emphasises the importance of family and community, stating that “the family is the original cell of social life” (CCC 2207) and that “the Church is a communion of families” (CCC 1658). However, the global village or universal lifestyle often neglects these values, leading to a breakdown in family relationships and a loss of a sense of community. As the Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church states, “the family is the primary and fundamental unit of society” (CSDC 211) and “the universal destination of goods is a principle that applies to all goods, including those of the family” (CSDC 173).
3.2 Social Media
Social media has had a profound impact on the breakdown of the traditional family setup. The rise of social media has created a false sense of connection and community, leading many to substitute online interactions for real-life relationships. Families are no longer spending quality time together, sharing meals, and discussing important issues. Instead, they are glued to their screens, scrolling through their social media feeds, and comparing their lives to others. This has resulted in a decline in face-to-face interactions and deep, meaningful relationships within families. Social media has also created a culture of individualism, where people are more focused on their own interests and needs rather than the needs of their families. Furthermore, social media has exposed families to different cultures and values, leading to a blurring of traditional family values and a loss of cultural identity.
3.3 Social Decay
Social decay has also contributed to the breakdown of the traditional family setup. The decline in social values and morals has led to a lack of guidance and support for families. The increase in crime, violence, and substance abuse has created a culture of fear and instability, making it difficult for families to feel safe and secure. “The Christian family is an institution that is indispensable to the Church and to society. It is a ‘domestic church’ in which the parents are the first heralds of the faith to their children” (CCC 1657). The decline in community involvement and social responsibility has also meant that families are no longer supported by their communities, leading to a lack of emotional support and guidance.
3.4 Economic Hardships
Economic hardships have also had a significant impact on the breakdown of the traditional family setup. The rise in unemployment, poverty, and economic inequality has created a culture of stress and anxiety, making it difficult for families to spend quality time together. The decline in economic opportunities has also led to a decline in family incomes, making it difficult for families to provide for their basic needs. The increase in working hours and the decline in job security have also meant that families are no longer able to spend quality time together, leading to a decline in family bonding and solidarity. “The family is the primary place of humanisation, where men and women are enabled to reach the fullness of their humanity. It is the ‘first school’ of human values, where children learn the fundamental values of life” (CCC 2208).
4.0 Effects of Breakdown of Traditional Family
The breakdown of the traditional family setup has led to a loss of family bonding and solidarity. Families no longer spend quality time together, sharing meals, and discussing important issues. This has resulted in a lack of emotional support and guidance for family members, particularly children.
The loss of family bonding has also led to a decline in family values and traditions, as well as a loss of cultural identity. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church states, “The family is the primary place of humanisation” (CCC 2208). When the family breaks down, individuals may seek fulfilment in other ways, such as through materialism or hedonism.
The breakdown of the traditional family setup has also had a negative impact on children. Children are no longer nurtured in a family environment that teaches good behaviour and prayerfulness. As the Bible warns, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). They lack guidance and support, leading to behavioural problems and a lack of direction in life.
Furthermore, the decline in family values and traditions has resulted in a lack of moral guidance, leading to an increase in delinquency and crime among young people. As Pope John Paul II states in his encyclical letter Familiaris Consortio, “The family is the foundation of society and the Church” (FC 1).
The breakdown of the traditional family setup has also led to a lack of solidarity among family members. Families are no longer there for each other in times of need, leading to a decline in emotional support and guidance. This has resulted in a lack of resilience and coping skills, leading to an increase in mental health problems and suicide rates.
Furthermore, the decline in family solidarity has led to a lack of community involvement and social responsibility, resulting in a decline in social cohesion and an increase in social problems. As Pope Benedict XVI states in his encyclical letter Caritas in Veritate, “The breakdown of the family is a source of suffering for many people, and it can have serious consequences for the individual and for society” (CV 44).
The facts highlighted above reveal that the breakdown of the traditional family has serious consequences for individuals, society, and the Church. It can lead to a breakdown in social cohesion, emotional and psychological distress, a decline in moral values, and a loss of faith. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church states, “The family is the foundation of society and the Church” (CCC 2207), and its preservation is essential for the well-being of all.
5.0 Solutions
To address the breakdown of the traditional family setup and promote a culture of life and family values, it is essential to implement the following solutions:
5.1 Small Christian Communities (SCCs)
Small Christian Communities (SCCs) are a vital solution to rebuilding and strengthening the traditional family setup. As emphasised in the African Bishops’ document “The Synod Comes Home,” SCCs can provide a sense of family and community for all members. These communities are small groups of families and individuals who come together to share their faith, support one another, and celebrate the Eucharist. By participating in SCCs, families can experience a sense of belonging and connection, which is essential for building strong relationships and a vibrant faith.
5.2 Associations
Associations are another essential solution to supporting families and rebuilding the traditional family setup. As mentioned in the Communique, associations should be taken seriously and made mandatory for every Church member. These associations can provide a platform for families to come together, share their experiences, and support one another. They can also offer programs and services that cater to the needs of families, such as counselling, education, and community service. By participating in associations, families can receive the support and guidance they need to thrive.
5.3 Education and Training
Improving the education and training of priests and lay leaders is also crucial to addressing the breakdown of the traditional family setup. As mentioned in the Communique, priests and lay leaders need to be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to address the complex issues facing families today. This includes training in sociology and counselling, which can enable them to provide effective guidance and support to families. By investing in the education and training of priests and lay leaders, the Church can ensure that families receive the support they need to build strong relationships and a vibrant faith.
5.4 Bishops’ Reflections
The Bishops’ Communique reflects on the importance of promoting the sanctity of life and traditional family values as a crucial aspect of addressing the breakdown of the traditional family setup. As it is written in Psalm 127:3-5, “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them.” This biblical perspective reminds us that families are a blessing from God and a vital part of His plan for humanity. Theologically, the family is a sacrament of God’s love and a reflection of the Trinity’s communion. By promoting the sanctity of life and traditional family values, the Church is not only upholding biblical principles but also safeguarding the dignity of human life and the integrity of the family as a divine institution. As St. John Paul II emphasised, “The family is the Church of the home” (Familiaris Consortio, 21). By strengthening families, we are building the foundation of a vibrant Church and a society that honours God’s plan for humanity.
By promoting the sanctity of life and traditional family values, the Church can provide a solid foundation for rebuilding and strengthening families, and fostering a culture of life and family values. This includes promoting a culture of life, encouraging responsible behaviour, supporting families in their vocation of marriage and family life, and accompanying and supporting young people to build a strong sense of identity and purpose.
6.0 Conclusion
The breakdown of the traditional family setup is a complex issue with far-reaching consequences, affecting not only individuals but also society as a whole. We acknowledge and appreciate the Bishops for raising this important point, highlighting the need for urgent attention and action. By promoting the sanctity of life and traditional family values, encouraging family prayer and spiritual growth, supporting couples in their vocation of marriage and family life, providing guidance and support for young people, and fostering community involvement and social responsibility, we can rebuild and strengthen families. This comprehensive approach involves implementing pastoral strategies that promote the integrity of the family, introducing Small Christian Communities that offer support and guidance, making associations mandatory for every Church member to foster a sense of belonging, and improving the education and training of priests and lay leaders in sociology and counselling to equip them to address the complex issues facing families today. By working together, we can create a culture that values and supports families and ultimately build a vibrant Church and society that honours God’s plan for humanity, where children can grow and thrive, and families can flourish and become a blessing to others.
7.0 References
- The Bible (various quotes)
- Catechism of the Catholic Church (various sections)
- Communiques of the Second Sub-Region Consultative Meeting of Bishops of Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe (July 15-19, 2024, Malawi)
- Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church (2004)
- Pope Benedict XVI, Caritas in Veritate (2009)
- Pope Francis, Amoris Laetitia (2016)
- Second Vatican Council, Gaudium et Spes (1965)
- Social Compendium: A Guide to the Church’s Social Doctrine (2011)
- St. Augustine, De Civitate Dei (The City of God)
- St. John Paul II, Familiaris Consortio (1981)
- St. Thomas Aquinas, Summa Theologica (Supplement, Q. 41, A. 1)
- The Pontifical Council for the Family, The Family in the Modern World (1999)
- The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Marriage and the Family (2015)