DESCRIPTION: This course presents an analysis of the current understanding and "modes" of "family ministry" over against a theological, sociological, and developmental understanding of contemporary culture. Various models of family ministry will be examined, and through the use of case studies, lectures, and research, students will learn how to create a family ministry that best suits the needs and vision of a given church or ministry organization.

COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students will be able to (1) grasp a comprehensive theological understanding of the nuclear family and the church as a "family" (Cognitive); (2) recognize and appreciate the unique challenges families face in any social context (Affective); and (3) create relational programs and parish strategies that enable both the strengthening of marriages, families, and the church as a multi-generational missional community (Skills).

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: While much has been written about family ministry the last few years, there are few comprehensive models. Even the term "family ministry" is not clear, for there are as many definitions as models. The western family, however, is in need of help. Churches have abandoned relational interconnectedness in favor of growth-oriented programming. This course will enable the student to understand and practically respond to the needs of singles, couples, and families while building the local church into a "family of families."

COURSE FORMAT: Lectures, class discussion, and presentations by guest experts will make up the class time. Each student will complete a detailed final project. The class will meet for ten three-hour sessions; please see the web schedule for dates.

REQUIRED READING:

Clapp, Rodney. Families at the Crossroads: Beyond Traditional and Modern Options. IVP, 1993.

Elkind, David. Ties That Stress: The New Family Imbalance. Harvard University Press, 1994.

Garland, Diana. Family Ministry: A Comprehensive Guide. InterVarsity Press, 1999.

Gibbs, Eddie. Church Next. InterVarsity Press, 2000.

Marquardt, E. Between Two Worlds: The Inner Lives of Children of Divorce. [ISBN #0-307-23710-9].

McKenna, Theresa. The Hidden Mission Field: Caring for Single Parent Families in the 21st Century. Winepress Publishing, 1999.

Perkins, James C. Building Up Zion's Walls: Ministry for Empowering the African American Family. Judson Press, 1999.

Thomas, Steve. Your Church Can Be Family Friendly. College Press, 1997.

Verrier, Nancy Newton. The Primal Wound: Understanding the Adopted Child. Gateway, 1993.

Wallace, Eric. Uniting Church and Home: A Blueprint for Rebuilding Church Community. Lorton, VA: Solutions for Integrating Church and Home, publishers [703-455-5163], 1999.

1. Reflection papers (2-3 pp.) on Ties That Stress, Church Next, and Families at the Crossroads (30%).

2. Midterm exam on lectures and Family Ministry (25%).

3. Write a three- to five-page practical theology of "family ministry in the local church" (15%).

4. Design a family ministry program, including but not limited to every issue covered by the lectures and the majority of those covered by the texts (40%).