The first Diocesan Clergy Day of 2020, took place at the Synod Offices, conference room and Trendell Lounge on Tuesday, January 28. More than 50 clergy of the diocese arrived at 9:30 for a 10am start to hear from Pastor Lori-Ann Boutin-Crawford as she shared information about Bowen Family Systems Theory. A number of clergy in the Diocese of New Westminster are trained in Bowen Family Systems Theory. In brief, Bowen Family Systems Theory "is a theory of human behavior that views the family as an emotional unit and uses systems thinking to describe the complex interactions in the unit."
The day consisted of a brief look at concepts in Bowen Family Systems Theory to help inform the clergy in their ministry and in their family lives. The presentations included space for those gathered to analyze their ministry context and to work on their own leadership roles within the church. Pastor Lori-Anne guided the group as they focused on applications of the theory to everyday life.
The clergy of the diocese were requested in advance to come prepared to share stories, their thoughts and their questions to generate an ongoing dialogue.
The Reverend Lori-Anne Boutin-Crawford is a pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (ELCiC), and has served in various roles in the BC synod, and is currently leading the congregations of Christ The King, Surrey (2017-present) and King Of Life, Coquitlam (2019-present). Lori-Anne has engaged in her post-graduate learning in Family Systems Theory and clinical counselling work with Living Systems Counselling, Education, and Research Society in North Vancouver, including a 2-year Internship and a 1-year Residency in Marriage and Family Therapy and Pastoral Counselling (2016-2019), as well as continuing with a Residency in Bowen Theory and Theology (2019-present).
Following the morning plenary session the clergy of the diocese spent time together over lunch, visiting and reconnecting with colleagues.
IMAGES
- Lori-Anne presenting
- A view of the plenary facing to the west in the conference room
- Lori-Anne contemplates a question
- Teddy the "Westie" is present with Archbishop Skelton during lunch
- Clergy conversations during lunch