Bowen family systems theory has been applied to thinking about relationship systems in faith communities for over 40 years. Many ministry workers have found family systems theory beneficial in approaching the complexity of working pastorally in these communities and leading congregations. Our Systems in Ministry programs aim to promote systems thinking in diverse Christian ministry contexts that aids in the development of mature ministry workers who engage in fruitful and sustainable ministries. We do this by growing our understanding of ourselves amidst our relationship complexities while equipping others to do the same. Many of the independent activities below that are useful for those in ministry as stand-alone events also build Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) hours which are credited to aspects of the Certificate in Family Systems Theory and Application (see below).
If you’re not sure where to start with thinking about family systems theory, our Introduction to Bowen Theory Group is an excellent way to hear some more about systems thinking, have some guided reading provided, and opportunity to ask questions and discuss ideas with others. This low-cost, low-commitment group runs over six 1-hour sessions and is a popular entry point to the FSI and family systems ideas more broadly. Find out more.
*6 hours RPL per group for Certificate Program
The Systems in Ministry Supervision Group is open and available for anyone in ministry. This online supervision group runs for five sessions for 1.5 hours over lunchtimes, and as a small group provides the opportunity to discuss set readings and present ministry examples for discussion with a Systems in Ministry Coach / Supervisor. An excellent way to explore systems ideas in application to a ministry context.
When: The next Systems in Ministry Supervision Group is commencing in July 2022. To register your interest or ask any questions, please complete the online enquiry form.
*7.5 hours RPL for Certificate Program
Researching your own family of origin is a key way of bringing family systems theory to life, in understanding your own role in your family, and exploring dynamic multigenerational relationships, patterns and adaptations over time. In doing this work, you are often able to get a better sense of your own relational ‘habits’ and how these might influence the way you react in ministry relationships and under stress. The FSI is committed to providing the opportunity for people to think about the application of Bowen theory to their own family of origin through these online research groups or individual family of origin coaching. Find out more here.
*25 hours RPL for Certificate Program.
The Systems in Ministry Supervision Package is a flexible package that provides those in ministry an introduction to systems thinking and opportunities to grapple with its application to their ministry context. The 1-year Ministry Supervision Package combines three core program elements over the year which includes a grounding in theory and then personal application:
Find out more about the Systems in Ministry Supervision Package.
*13.5 hours RPL for joining a Certificate Program
The Certificate in Family Systems Theory and Application is a 2-year training program featuring training in a Bowen Family Systems Theory approach to thinking about self in relationship systems. It provides a rich opportunity for those wanting to integrate systems thinking in the relationships they are working with in broad contexts – for example those in mental health, ministry, health, education, nursing, executive coaching, family business, HR, family support, disability, drugs and alcohol. It includes the same in-depth theory components to the Advanced Certificate program but is not accredited by AAFT and does not include the broader family therapy modules and clinical supervision groups. Find out more here.
Every two-years the Family Systems Institute hosts a Symposium with the goal of bringing Bowen Family Systems Theory to life in a ministry context. The SIM Symposium is open to everyone, and is a great opportunity for those learning more about family systems thinking, as well as those extending their thinking about this approach and its application to Christian ministry. Previous symposiums have covered topics including emotionally mature leadership, conflict, burnout and systems in congregational life.
*3 hours RPL for Certificate Program
In 2022 the FSI will host an online half-day symposium on Triangles in Congregational Life – stay tuned for more details!
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