Ministry Modules offer those in ministry or pastoral contexts an opportunity to engage in structured sessions on an aspect of systems thinking.

Modules will require pre-reading and provide time for questions, discussion, and personal application. 

The sessions will introduce core concepts and principles from Bowen Family Systems Theory that aim to increase awareness, thoughtfulness and maturity in relationships.

Each Ministry Module consists of three online 1.5-hour reading and discussion groups. Cost per module is $120+GST or $400+GST to register for all four.

MODULE 1 - CONGREGATIONS AS RELATIONAL SYSTEMS

How can I navigate the pressures and complexities of ministry relationships? What can I do to be thoughtful and calm when those around me are feeling anxious or emotional?

This Ministry Module considers the core systems idea that all human relationship systems are driven by anxiety and how understanding the patterns that evolve in relationships can be useful in ministry.

Time: Wednesdays 11:30am-1pm

Dates: 22^nd Feb | 8^th March | 22^nd March

Facilitator: Nicky Fortescue

MODULE 2 - RELATIONAL TRIANGLES IN MINISTRY

How does side-taking or gossip affect relationships in the church community? What can I do when someone tries to draw me into a conflict or problem they are having with someone else?

Murray Bowen called triangles the building block of any relationship system. This Ministry Module considers how triangles operate in groups when anxiety is high and how you can manage yourself helpfully.

Time: Wednesdays 11:30am-1pm

Dates: 10^th May | 24^th May | 7^th June

Facilitator: Lauren Errington

MODULE 3 - PASTORAL CARE THAT PROMOTES MATURITY

How can systems theory help me approach pastoral care in a way that is less reactive, more sustainable and more helpful for those I care for?
Is help ever unhelpful?

This Ministry Module explores family systems ideas of over- and under-functioning in relationships and why thinking about the helper role in pastoral care is worth paying attention to.

Time: Tuesdays 11:30am-1pm

Dates:  1^st Aug | 15^th Aug | 29^th Aug

Facilitator: Anna Moss

MODULE 4 - MANAGING CONFLICT

Why can conflict so easily derail or distract me from my ministry goals?
What options do I have when conflict escalates and how can I manage this more effectively?

This Ministry Module uses a systems lens to think about conflict in relationships and how directing efforts to manage oneself may create different outcomes when seeking to navigate difficult interactions.

Time: Tuesdays 11:30am-1pm

Dates: 24^th Oct | 7^th Nov | 21^st Nov

Facilitator: Andrew Ball

Places are limited – so register soon!