Explore the emotional and family-life issues of transitioning from a nuclear family to an extended family in this 5-part series.  Ditching the Empty-Nest-Helicopter-Parents-Boomerang-Children cultural norms this series centers on a study of God’s process of preparing His son, Israel, for service in the world. The workshop equips parents to build homes characterized by refuge and celebration, whatever their children’s ages. Parents will learn to strengthen themselves and their children for the separations necessary to effective Kingdom work, and to balance that separation-sorrow with the joyful invitations that call capable young adults back into family contexts in healthy ways.

A PSALM FOR EMPIRE-BUILDERS

Our culture tells us we are headed for the Empty Nest, but God’s compass points to a different destination: the Extending Family. Contrast God’s patterns of empire-building with cultural norms of inter-generational self-indulgence, and discover a vibrant perspective on your past and your future. (Lecture & film. 1 hour)

GOD’S PATTERNS FOR LAUNCHING ARROWS

Learn God’s parenting methods as He prepared His son, Israel, for mature service, shared power and the weight of glory. Consider the expanding responsibilities and extending scope of the work of Israel’s offices as priest, king and prophet. Learn to let go by bequeathing legacies. (Lecture & large group discussion. 1 hour)

GOD CALLS US HOME- REFUGE

We all love what has grown to be familiar.  It calls to us.  Learn how God leveraged those longings in the cultural institutions He designed for Israel at Sinai: the Law and the Passover. Explore the cities of refuge, the sanctuary and the festival calendar with new eyes. (Lecture. 1 hour)

GOD CALLS US HOME- CELEBRATION

It’s about time. It’s about space.  It’s about giving Creation its true voice, the voice that calls us together to enjoy our Creator. Hear, taste, and see how to use Old Testament patterns to create celebrations that commemorate what God has done for us as His covenant people and for your family in particular. (Lecture, group discussion. 1 hour)

WIND & FIRE PARENTING

Learn to let go by observing God’ s send-offs for His children.  Compare and contrast the send-offs at Babel and at Pentecost.  Find essential examples of commissioning, blessing, and empowering. (Worship time of singing and prayer. Lecture. 1 hour)

Learn how to schedule a workshop.  Contact workshops@countdown2college.net