In 1994, newlyweds Rob and Amy Rienow began their journey as believers with a shared love for God, but without a clear biblical vision for their family. Over time, God turned their hearts toward His word and toward intentionally ministering to each other and their children. They came to realize that their most significant calling was to impress the hearts of their children with a love for God. While they knew they still had much to learn about becoming a truly visionary family, they experienced God’s grace and mercy every step of the way.

Their passion for family ministry was sharpened by a sobering reality: many young people who were active in church during their teen years were walking away from their faith as adults. Research by George Barna in 2013 revealed that 59% of young adults had stopped attending church. In their work with churches across the country, Rob and Amy found that two out of three empty-nest parents had at least one child who was no longer walking with the Lord. This pattern prompted deep reflection on their approach to parenting and discipleship.

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart.
Deuteronomy 6: 5-6, ESV

Scripture brought clarity. Guided by Deuteronomy 6:5–6, Rob realized that while he was investing heavily in the spiritual lives of other people’s children as a youth pastor, he had neglected his primary responsibility as the spiritual leader of his own home. This conviction marked a turning point. They began to understand that ministry must start within the family, and that strong, Christ-centered relationships are essential for resisting the enemy’s attacks.

Out of this calling, Visionary Family Ministries was founded in 2011. Guided by the mission “Helping Families Around the World Follow Jesus,” the ministry equips parents to lead spiritually in their homes. Today, Visionary Family Ministries encourages families and trains church leaders through live conferences, books, video Bible studies, and free online resources. Each year, the ministry hosts more than 50 events across the United States and internationally, including in countries such as Singapore, France, and Ukraine.

God continues to move through this work—turning the hearts of parents toward their children and the hearts of children back to their parents. Fathers are stepping into their role as loving spiritual leaders, and mothers are renewing their commitment to discipleship at home. Visionary Family Ministries exists to bring hope to families, strengthen relationships, and equip households to shine as lighthouses for Christ—advancing the Gospel one family at a time.