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Abstract

"Contemporary theological perspectives on the family can be grouped broadly into two models. The covenant model highlights similarities between God's covenant with his people and the marriage relationship - for example an initiative of love which invites a response and creates a relationship; a moral affirmation (an oath or vow) which secures the relationship; obligations (commandments) which undergird it; blessings promised to the faithful; and an element of sacrifice ( eg an end to singleness and dependence on parents). 1 The model can be extended to include children. 'In a moral sense, what brings people together as a family is the covenant ofloyalty to one another from birth to death.' Children are nurtured within 'a circle of covenanted care'"