Family and Congregational Systems Programs

Bowen Family Systems Theory has attracted increasing attention from leaders of faith communities and other organizations. In addition, many have found it a resource for a variety of personal life challenges—parenting, extended family relationships, retirement planning and more. Bowen theory offers a different way to observe and understand human relationships. A common outcome is the discovery that a deeper understanding of one’s own family system propels an increasing effectiveness in other relationship systems—including in one’s profession.

Spring 2026 Conference

Thriving in Ministry: Family Systems Theory as a Resource for Faith Communities

May 5-6, 2026 | Eastern Mennonite Seminary or Online

Presented by the Bowen Center, in partnership with Eastern Mennonite Seminary and with support from the Lilly Endowment, and the Joe Carolin Memorial Fund.

Whatever the challenges are in ministry, the invitation is there to thrive, both personally and as a congregation. Bowen theory maps a way through differentiation of self to pursue a thriving pathway. This can involve embracing the realities and loving the challenges themselves as congregations, clergy, and lay leaders.

All are welcome to this day of exploration and learning as participants consider how Bowen theory can inform Thriving in Ministry. This conference is appropriate for ordained and lay leaders as well as anyone interested in learning more about family systems thinking.