What We Do When Extended Family Doesn't Care For Our Church?

I was inspired to write a post about this topic when I saw several threads on a Christian forum that detailed the experiences of a person whose extended family did not accept the Episcopal Church (mainly due to liturgy, sacraments, and a perceived liberalism at the national level).  This isn't isolated to the Episcopal Church, as this topic/issue comes up over and over again and I'm sure many of us have experience in dealing with family who comes from a different faith background. 

Unfortunately, I have first-hand experience with dealing with extended family who doesn't accept my faith.  My mother's extended family are made up of mostly Jehovah's Witnesses (two aunts and uncles, a cousin, and a grandma).  Jehovah's Witnesses believe that all other faiths are a part of "Christendom" and are of the devil.  In many ways, Anglicanism and Jehovah's Witnesses couldn't be much further apart when it comes to theology and worship.  Fortunately, I was never baptized in the Jehovah's Witness faith, therefore, my extended Jehovah's Witness family are actually allowed to talk to me.  That being said, we never "argue" about religion or theology.  The fact is, if a Christian is well formed in their faith and are able to make a reasonable defense of that faith, you will generally have the respect of your family, even if they do not agree.

Sadly, letting your family run roughshod over you and running your Church into the ground isn't going to help anything.  You don't have to argue with your family, but you should make it abundantly clear that bashing your faith is hurtful and you should be able to explain why you believe the way you do.  This why it is important to attend bible study and study materials on your own.  One of the best New Testament bible study series out there is the "For Everyone" series by retired Anglican Bishop N.T. Wright.  N.T. Wright's series is set up as being introductory and offers understandable answers.  Also, if you are interested in study bibles, I'd highly recommend the Oxford Study Bible. (\For more info on the Episcopal Church, see this blog post New to the Episcopal Church

Remember, your family may never accept your faith, but if you are well formed, you may gain their respect. 

So, what have your experiences been?  Have you faced family who are unable to accept you faith?