Many youth ministries and church organizations around the country use "purity balls" as an activity not only to emphasize abstinence for teenagers, but also to emphasize fathers' responsibilities.
Many "purity balls," like the highly popular event Andy and Lisa Wilson host annually in Colorado Springs, run like typical gala events, including a meal and some form of entertainment or dancing. In addition to these traditions, however, purity balls give fathers and daughters the chance to announce their dedication to purity.
Recent studies have suggested close relationships between fathers and daughters can reduce the risk of early sexual activity among girls and teenage pregnancy. Studies also have shown most teenagers who say they will remain abstinent, like those at the ball, end up having sex before marriage, and they are far less likely to use condoms than their peers.
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The Wilson's purity ball, however, focuses less on the daughter's pledge and more on the father's responsibility to care for, set an example, and remain present for their daughters. To ensure their daughters' purity, the fathers are asked to set an example and to hew to evangelical ideals in a society they say tempts them as much as it does their daughters.
The night includes a time in which fathers read aloud a covenant "before God to cover my daughter as her authority and protection in the area of purity," as well as a cross-kneeling ceremony.
Discussion StartersHave you hosted any youth ministry activities that focus on purity? What do think is more effective: to focus on the parents or on the students? In your experience, have you found abstinence pledges to be effective and healthy for your students?
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