Your child may be off at college—but your influence as a parent doesn’t stop at move-in day. In fact, the way you support their spiritual life from afar can make all the difference as they navigate new challenges, questions, and freedoms. Whether they’re thriving in their faith or still searching for their place, here’s how you can encourage and walk alongside them without overstepping.

Help Them Find Their “Why”

College is a time when your child will be challenged—academically, socially, and spiritually. Help them get rooted not just in what they believe, but why it matters.

You might suggest:

• Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
• The Case for Jesus by Dr. Brant Pitre
• Videos from Fr. Mike Schmitz or Jackie & Bobby Angel on YouTube

Faith that’s deeply rooted will grow—even through tough seasons.

Normalize Struggles and Doubts

Let your child know it’s okay to question, wrestle, or feel uncertain. God isn’t afraid of their doubts, and neither should they be.

"Even if you're unsure or struggling with your faith, don’t disconnect from it completely. Stay curious, ask questions, and find people who want to walk with you."

Celebrate the Small Wins

When your child takes a step toward faith—a retreat, a confession after a long time, helping at a campus event—celebrate it. Acknowledge their effort and affirm their choices.

That kind of support means more than you know. 

• Send a congratulatory text.
• Tell them you’re proud of them.
• Remind them those little steps matter.

Encourage, But Don’t Pressure

Let your child know you support them spiritually, but don’t guilt them into Mass or events. A well-timed nudge can go a long way, especially when it’s given in love.

You might say: "I found that there's a Newman Center near your dorm—want me to send you the info?"

Faith grows best when it’s freely chosen, and your encouragement can help them make that choice. 

Connect Them With Catholic Peers

If you know Catholic students or families at the same school, offer to introduce them. Sometimes, all it takes is one familiar face to ease the fear of showing up to a new group or Mass alone. With our Faith Forward movement, get them personally connected to their next Catholic community. 

Support Their Faith from Afar

Just because your child is away doesn’t mean your influence stops. A few ways to stay spiritually connected:

• Send a care package with a small devotional, prayer card, or Catholic book
• Text them a Sunday reminder (if that fits your relationship)
• Let them know you’re praying for them—and mean it

Small gestures remind them they’re not alone in their faith.

Respect Their Journey

Some students plug into campus ministry immediately. Others take time. All of that is part of the journey.

Keep praying. Keep asking thoughtful questions. Keep the door open for faith conversations. Trust that God is working, even if you can’t always see it.

Great Resources to Share With Your Student

• FOCUS – Fellowship of Catholic University Students
• Newman Connection – Find Catholic campus ministries
• Catholic Link – Videos and articles for young adult Catholics
• Hallow App – Catholic prayer and meditation app
  
  

A Simple Prayer for Parents

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of my child.
As they step into this new chapter, I ask You to guide their path, protect their heart, and draw them closer to You.
Help me to support them with love, patience, and prayer.
May they find a community that nurtures their faith and helps them grow into the person You’ve created them to be.
Amen.

Even from miles away, your presence, prayers, and encouragement matter. Your role may look different now, but it’s no less powerful. By supporting your child with love and trust, you remind them that their faith isn’t something they have to navigate alone. Stay connected, keep the conversation open, and trust that God is working in their heart—one step at a time.