CIRCLES of HOPE

When a child comes out to their parents as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or queer, it can be a disorienting experience for the parents. This revelation can raise a flood of questions, especially for Christian parents who may have conflicting beliefs or values.

This curriculum is designed to facilitate interaction among parents by addressing the 12 most asked and difficult questions.

Laura van Dernoot Lipsky, a front-line social worker in the United States and internationally, struggled with acute trauma due to her work. In her book "Trauma Stewardship" (2009), she describes a model called the Five Directions, designed to assist in managing trauma.

The Five Directions provide a guide to regain calm. Being calm allows us to remember our source of wisdom and regain our perspective regardless of how out of control everything and everyone around us seems.

  Andy Stanley, a best-selling author, communicator, founder, and senior pastor of  North Point Ministries, has spent over thirty years in ministry exploring what it takes to create a personal and enduring faith. He has tried to identify the common denominators and the factors that fuel or facilitate the development of enduring faith and enduring confidence in God.

He found that five things appeared consistently in every situation. These were all derived from the teachings and life of Jesus, and he named them the "five faith catalysts." These five elements are incredibly potent and impactful because they can be applied in any stage or season of life – including the one you find yourself in now.