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On a rainy Sunday night, it was a welcome sight indeed to see the volunteers from Victory Vida greeting concerned parents who had gathered for Porn and Parents. The Victory Vida worship team set a tone of expectation as they led the group into worship in both English and Spanish. In spite of the pouring rain, V3 was packed out with parents eager to learn what they could do to help their teens keep safe in their Internet usage.

Craig Gross began by giving some startling statistics: 65% of parents are unaware of what their children are doing online; 8 out of 10 teen boys are struggling with porn; 90% of teens are online. So what do we do? Craig summed it up in a few points:

1. Have a conversation with your teens about this issue. He recommended this link: xxxchurch.com/gethelp/parents/resources.html that can give parents the tools they need to discuss this issue with their teens,
2. Move your computer to a public area in the house. He reminded parents of their parental role in this issue – with 13 -18 year olds spending an average of 72 hours a week using some sort of technology – almost two full time jobs – parents do not want to leave their children open to harm;
3. Safeguard your computer, just as you do your television set. It is vital for everyone to have filters and software on your computer to protect your children. He mentioned both filter and accountability software that is readily available through x3watch.com.

Craig also cautioned about the dangers of unmonitored use of social media sites, pointing out that most parents would not allow their teens to travel wherever they want, whenever they want, but routinely let them do that in the online world.

Most teens do not realize the dangers that are inherent in distributing personal information online. The internet is full of online predators, and parents must ensure that they regularly check any social media accounts that their children maintain in order to keep them safe from harm.

The evening ended with an open Q & A session with Craig Gross and Pastors Dennis and Colleen, who have already navigated this world with their own teen. Then, they challenged all the parents to stand firm as they protect their children, even when their children and other parents pressure them to give in. After all, we are responsible to the Lord for them. Pastor Dennis then closed in prayer, asking for wisdom for parents and protection for our teens. ~ Pamela B.