Online Seminar-- The Power to Bless

The Power to Bless

April 7-25, 2008
Facilitators: Lynn Smith, M.Div.
12.0 contact hours

"The blessed child is one who is affirmed and loved by those responsible for the child's care, usually the parents," writes Dr. Myron Madden in his book, The Power to Bless. "But no child seems to get enough blessing to last a lifetime. As we move through adolescence and into adulthood, we have the need for affirmation beyond the family."

Through peer dialogue reflecting on writings by Dr. Myron Madden (The Power To Bless) and three popular films, seminar participants will reflect on the meaning of blessing. Participants will also explore the interaction between parents and children in the giving and receiving of blessing along with the giving and receiving of blessing outside the family.

Presentations and Films (one per week):

"Blessing As Gift" by Myron Madden, Ph.D.
- Film: October Sky
Questions About the Blessing" by Myron Madden, Ph.D.
- Film: Whale Rider
"Returning the Blessing" by Myron Madden, Ph.D.
- Film: Finding Forrester

Learning Objectives:

Following this seminar, participants should be able to:

Recognize the presence and/or absence of blessing within one's self and others.
Interpret the Old Testament practices of blessing in light of contemporary practices we observe within families and beyond families.
Articulate an understanding of what Myron Madden describes as the "Power to Bless."
Recognize who holds the power to bless in a given context.
Identify situations where elders are seeking, and needing, the blessing of younger persons.
Help those to whom we minister find and/or grant blessing.

Registration:

This seminar is limited to 12 participants.
WEOI members are free / non-members are $60

Registration is closed for this session