The PRESENT SITUATION:

Families are the building block of our societies yet so often the strength of families is missed and many families are suffering.
We live in a broken world filled with broken families and broken hearts. Too many families are struggling to find the ‘life to the full’ that Jesus talked about.
Families come in all shapes and forms today and, regardless of the definition of the term ‘family’ that may be used, people living in households in this nation are being challenged on many fronts.
Rebuilding nations and communities begins through the transformation of families and their children – restoring hope and life.

The PURPOSE:
To gather influential Christian leaders to begin a conversation and a shared journey towards a better future for families.

The PRINCIPLES:

This is a first CONVERSATION not a CONFERENCE
Be creative in how to capture people’s thoughts so that every voice can be heard
No logos, no product promotion, no hidden agenda
This is a listening process – to each other, to the ‘voices’ of our community, and to God – let us dream together and strive together for a better future of families that moves beyond words and vision to practical outcomes.
Leaders are invited to speak from their passion, experience and expertise, so as to develop long term, practical possibilities for change.

The POSSIBLE OUTCOMES:

While the conversation will lead towards some expected outcomes, some will be unknown – bringing people together and allowing the Spirit of God to convict, inspire and direct. However, some of these may result…

A clearer understanding of the urgency and priority of the need to support families and their children
More awareness of the vital role of families and society
New connections and networks formed
Collaborative initiatives (across political, social, economic, spiritual…)
An audit of resources currently available
Contribute to the global community for the sharing of stories, ideas and  practical strategies

Many churches have some form of provision for children in the life of the church but may have no outreach to the child whose family do not attend church. Children often have a low priority in mission, but a healthy mission strategy in the local church will have children’s work as a high priority. Today we are being told that as many as 4 out of every 5 of our youth are leaving the churches!

Jesus said to preach the Gospel to every person (Mark 16: 15) and to make disciples of all nations (Matt.28: 19-20). Deuteronomy 6 & Psalm 78 tell us to make God known to the next generation so that they will faithfully pass it on to the generation after them. The Church is NEVER more than one generation from extinction!