Many people view church as essential to one's lifelong well-being.

To people who find religion fulfilling and gratifying I say, More power to 'em.  But in this case, to me, it sounds like the boy is spending a lot of energy resisting going to church, which ends up involving games and treats.  I wonder if that is really a form of spiritual development.  But I tend to think first in terms of the relationship, and then about other goals.  And I don't generally think in terms of "winning."  I don't think I would think I "lost" if I went to a sacred place alone or with someone who also wanted to be there.  So there's obviously a very different approach here, which I respect.