High School

The Prodigal Parent Series

One of Jesus' most popular parables was the "Prodigal Son." A young man took his inheritance, disowned his family, then squandered it all away only to go back home to beg to be a servant of his father. Upon seeing him, the father throws a party for the son shouting a familiar phrase, "my son was lost but now is found!"

While most people generally identify with the child in this story (after all, how many of us have messed up only to go ask our parents for help) the God character is the parent. The prodigal parent showed grace and wisdom that is transcendent. It is our hope to offer resources that help, that are current and compelling, that our parents can show grace and wisdom more naturally in their families.

So You Have a Teen with a Smart Phone

Parents challenged with technology's effect on their teens or younger children are invited to hear expert Bruce Reyes Chow speak about practical ways to deal with this issue.  This is the second session of a two-part series. The first session included practical information and spiritual insights and encouragement. This session will be a chance for everyone to share in a collaborative process with Bruce. Please do not miss this event if your are a parent challenged with this issue, regardless of the age of your children.

Council of Dads

All dads are invited to share in the monthly meeting o the Council of Dads. Come, share a meal and discussion topic with other dads. Check-out our Events/Calendar for our next gathering.

13 Reasons Why > You Matter  -  Sunday, May 21, 11:30am  

By now we’re sure you’ve all heard about the Netflix Series “13 Reasons Why” and it's already got you thinking, talking, and possibly worrying about your teens and their friends. While many parts of the series were extreme worst-case scenarios of teen culture it nevertheless has created an incredible opportunity to have frank and thoughtful conversations with teens about depression, cutting, suicide and more. After chatting with many area parents about the show we knew we had to do something to not only give you hope and uplift your souls as parents but also give you some really practical information about how to talk about these things with your kids. Also, you’re probably noticing that your kids might not be so apt to discuss the show or its topics with you… they’re frankly tired of hearing about. But, we all know as adults that these are important topics that should be discussed.

So we’re bringing in a speaker that we know your teens will love. Kevin Hines (www.KevinHinesStory.com) survived jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge at the age of 19. He suffers from bipolar disorder but has become a nationally sought after speaker for his story. He serves on multiple boards and is a trusted ally by multiple organizations even meeting with the Obama administration.

We also couldn’t have been luckier to find Dr. Julie Hartman (www.MindfulResourceCenter.com). She’s not like many therapists, she’s actually watched the entire show and already has been working with the reactions to it in her teen clients and the other therapists she manages at her practice. She really has a heart to connect with you not just as a clinician but also a mother.

Please pass this around to anyone you think might be interested. Many of us know someone personally that has been affected by suicide so we really hope people will take advantage of this. This event is for ages 13 and up. In partnership with Rodef Shalom's mental health initiative, To Write Love on Her Arms, and the Marin Interfaith Council, there will also be booths to connect you to resources in our community. Food and childcare will be provided.

And of course, if you feel like you or someone you know needs to talk to someone sooner than 5/21 please by all means contact us anytime. That’s what we’re here for.