DESCRIPTION: The individual-in-family-within-community is the focus of study in
the pastoral care and counseling of biological families within the spiritual
family. Family systems theory, theology, and therapy will be integrated as the
student explores his/her own multigenerational family system and applies
learnings to one's own role in his/her family of origin and to all family
ministry.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: Self-awareness and understanding of
identity and location shape the pastoral counseling ministry with others. This
is particularly important within the complex and dynamic family
system--comprised of one's spiritual family, biological family, kinship
networks, and the persons within these contexts. This course equips the
counselor to reflect on his/her own family system, relate and respond
systemically, and intervene effectively in ministry with families.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: At the completion of this course, the student will have
gained a greater understanding and new ways of connecting with family of
origin, learning clear self-definition and personal differentiation with clean
boundaries, balancing separateness and connectedness in healthful ways.
Additionally, the student will discover new clarity of self-in-relation with
oneself, with others, and with God. Lastly, the student will be able to think
through and apply systems theory in relationships and ministry.
COURSE FORMAT: Class will meet once weekly for a three-hour session. The course
focuses on assisting participants in understanding, differentiating, and
deepening relationships in their family of origin in personal development as a
basis for work in family intervention. Lectures, reading reflections,
experiential process, case studies, and audiovisuals will be utilized to assist
the pastoral counselor in growth toward effective preventative and creative
change in family systems.
REQUIRED READING: