Join Calvin and Maggie for a true grit picture of marriage as it travels over the rocky and rowdy places of life.
Margaret Vanz Odhner, BSN, is a 29 year veteran registered nurse with a specialty in Critical Care. She is the mother of 5 children and is currently a “stay at home mom” residing in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Maggie loves people, homeopathy and babies and often can be seen with all three. With a life and marriage full of failures and success Maggie feels she has grown through the sorrow and joy and is grateful for the unceasing love she feels from her Maker.
Reverend Calvin Acton Odhner, MA, MFT, MDiv., is currently Assistant to the Pastor of the Olivet New Church and School in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Together with his wife Maggie (Van Zyverden) they watch/manage a family of 5 that is mostly out of the house but always in touch. Calvin is enjoying teaching, counseling and preaching in the Toronto church society and looks forward to discovering new ways to spread the church. He is also a self-described guitar-playing-Laureliting-SWETtie-Warrior with a passion for men’s work and healing.
We welcome people who would like to help us with providing a wonderful program for children. By volunteering to help during this session you will be able to spend some quality time with children, and the $25 fee for childcare for your family will be waived. We are grateful for your help!
We will deal with money issues that adults commonly face. (A program for teens is in slot B3.)
- Bank on It – an introduction to bank services
- Borrowing Basics – an introduction to credit
- Check it Out – how to choose and keep a checking account
- Money Matters – how to keep track of your money
- Pay Yourself First – why you should save, save, save
- Keep it Sage – your rights as a consumer
- To Your Credit – how your credit history will affect your credit future
- Charge it Right – how to make a credit card work for you
- Loan to Own – know what you’re borrowing before you buy
- Your Own Home – what home ownership is all about
Diana Mergen is a work-at-home mom of two children. When she is not managing her household she is working for her real estate investment company which she and her husband, Reuben, started in 2008. Before becoming a mom, Diana worked her way up from being a bank teller to managing operations for 100 banking centers at Bank of America. During that time, she was featured on WHYY during a Money Smart training program that was geared towards helping those who experienced homelessness get back to work. She also spent much of her time volunteering at community centers and schools teaching individuals about the basics of money. It has been Diana’s goal to once again offer this program to those who want to stay in control of their finances. She encourages those, young and old to come and participate in this hands on training about money!
Boundaries...what are they and do we need them? Robert Frost says that "good fences build good neighbors". Do they? Join us as we discuss and do some role-playing in order to learn more about healthy boundaries. We think ALL relationships need healthy ones...not flimsy ones, not walls. Come explore with us and have a chance to laugh at yourself while you are at it!
Gwenda and Michael met at church camp (Maple Leaf Academy) in 1974. After graduating college and Theological school respectively, they married in 1982. During the span of their 29 years together, they raised 6 kids (two are married). They served the Church in 5 different congregations, especially loving their work at Laurel and Maple camps. Michael is the pastor of the Lord's new Church and Gwenda teaches high school girls about relationships and marriage. They dream of someday building a cabin in the woods...
"If you're happy, then I'm happy. If you're angry, then I'm angry." That's codependency. And yet we also know that true love is experiencing the joy of another as joy in oneself (see DLW 47). So how do we experience that mutual sharing, without losing our individuality and simply depending on our spouse for our own happiness? Angel couples are stronger individuals, as well as having one of the closest relationships imaginable. So how do we find that sweet spot of inter-dependence, which means that our individual happiness doesn't depend on our spouse, and yet we are also able to experience intimate mutual trust, and a sharing of affections? We will share some ideas we've learned from various books. We will also have self-evaluation tools. And we hope to have a discussion with you about this important challenge in marriage.
Solomon and Tiral Keal have been married nearly eleven years. Solomon is a candidate for the ministry, hoping to graduate and be ordained in May. They have five children and have a passion for supporting marriage. Solomon and Tirah also have a music ministry which you can hear at www.solomonkeal.com.
Sig and Judy have been married for almost 38 years. They have four children and 4 granddaughters. In 1993 their oldest daughter, Erin, died from cancer. Sig's brother, Sven, died at the age of 43; and his father died when Sig was 21. Dealing with the grief, loss and pain has been a struggle for many years. Many people have been affected by recent deaths in the past year in Bryn Athyn. The Pastor's Office has recognized a growing need to provide support to these grieving individuals. Sig was asked to run a support group similar to the very successful Widow/Widowers group. The first meeting is scheduled for January 16th and the next meeting will be February 20th. The group is called Loss And Found. This workshop will be an opportunity for participants to come together for support as they deal with various losses. The focus will be on the death of a loved one. We may touch on other losses such as jobs, marriages, physical abilities and cognitive functioning. We all experience loss in our lives. Finding a place to feel supported is a gift. Sig retired last year, after working for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for 34 years. He worked as a Recreation Therapist, Vocational Counselor and Rehabilitation Supervisor. He is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. He also volunteers for the Bryn Athyn Fire Company as an EMT/driver.
Sig Soneson retired last year after working for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for 34 years. He worked as a Recreation Therapist, Vocational Counselor and Rehabilitation Supervisor. He is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. He also volunteers for the Bryn Athyn Fire Company as an EMT/driver.
- Learn new ways to manage stress that will make your relationship stronger and improve your communication skills.
- Identify your Stress Type: your reactions and responses to stress and the importance of knowing your partner’s stress type.
- Learn the kinds of stress that affects couples;
- Primary stress is your stress
- Secondary stress- your partner’s stress, and
- Inter-couple stress, which involves both members on the same issue: parenting, finances, vacation decisions etc.
- You will learn strategies to overcome Primary, Secondary, and Inter- couple stress.
Anna Cole is a certified professional life coach from the premier coaching school, Coaches Training Institute. She is married to James Cole and works with busy moms and professional moms who struggle balancing family, work, and self. Anna helps her clients strengthen their relationships, let go of guilt, improve self-confidence so they create lives and careers they love. Visit her website at AnnaCole.com.
Monica Leggett is a writer, speaker, life coach and relationships specialist, who coaches clients making life and relationship transformations. Monica is certified in PeopleMap ™ Systems, a personality assessment tool, which helps individuals, couples, small business owners, and work teams to identify their individual strengths, Achilles Heels, communication styles, response to stress, and areas for personal, professional, and relationship growth. Visit her website at www.NewStepsLifeCoaching.com.
Often we regret the actions or words that come out of us when we seem to be overpowered by strong and difficult emotions. We don't want to just bottle them, but what do we do with them that is still in line with the Lord's injunction to "love others as ourselves" and to "set a guard over our mouth"? I have explored some ideas found in modern psychology and brain research that suggest techniques we can learn to make us tolerant of our emotions, that is, able to ride out the storm and act from good. I am not in any way an expert on this, but I hope to share what I've learned about impulse control and the brain. We'll look at connections between New Church thought and psychological thought and aim at practical ways to use these ideas to help our marriages and dealings with our kids.
Ann Buss is an artist, and enjoys teaching about the magic of color and paint. She and her husband, Erik, lived in South Africa for a decade, and some of her paintings from that time reflect the images of that country. They moved to the United States a year-and-a-half ago with their five children.
Alaina Mabaso's book The Conjugial Culture describes some issues with the way the book Conjugial Love has been taught in the Academy of the New Church and in the the New Church. The workshop will be an open discussion of some of these topics. You are welcome to join us whether or not you have read the book. We can focus on particular chapters and passages if people wish.
Linda Simonetti Odhner has been married to Dewey for almost thirty years, and has taught workshops on a range of topics concerning marriage, sexuality, childbearing, and childrearing.
No one diet is right for everyone. All foods—even healthy foods—have different effects on different bodies. While foods like soy, oranges, and corn are healthy additions for some people, for others they can trigger weight gain, asthma, migraines or even depression. Are you often tired? Do you have high cholesterol, high blood pressure, digestive issues, or brain-fog? Do you have excess weight that won’t budge? You could be suffering from a food-related intolerance. Come learn about this program and discover that your body has the answers to your well-being!
Star Silverman, M.A. in Education, University of Denver, has been leading spiritual growth groups and marriage education programs since 1989. In 2008, she transferred this experience to the field of nutrition, including motivational strategies for optimum health. Since then, hundreds of participants have experienced new levels of health and vitality through the simple practice of learning to listen to their own body. Star is happily married to Ray 35+ years and they have raised seven children. At this point she is living in gratitude and enjoying the blessings of extended family, friends, and especially grandchildren.
A good marriage takes work. It requires consciousness and attention. Men often work hard, pay a good deal of attention and are conscious of what they are doing- everywhere that is except to their marriage. Come explore what men can bring to a marriage.
Chris Lermitte has been happily married to Debra Morey Lermitte for going on 19 years. Having met after both being divorced, Chris and Debra are serious about thriving in their marriage. Soon after marrying in 1993, they helped create "Marriage Enrichment: The Sequel" -- a support group for couples who were also on their second marriages. The group ran for 13 years and they count the time spent as an important part of their marital and spiritual growth.
Men accuse women of being irrational. Women accuse men of being unfeeling. Even though this is an irrational accusation, it serves a man's spiritual life well to give credence to his feelings. To be aware of them. Communications are so different (and better) when that is the case.
This group is only for men, married or unmarried. It will be conducted with the same rules of engagement as you may know from the Journey groups. The theme is: feelings. What are they? Do they exist? Has anyone ever seen them? What do you do with them if you catch one? Bring your sense of humor, and your honesty with yourself.
Stephen was born in Holland and worked as a software engineer. After discovering the Writings of Emanuel Swedenborg he became more and more interested in religion and possibly a career change. He is in his final year of studying for the ministry. He and his wife Tatiana have one son, Eric.
We welcome people who would like to help us with providing a wonderful program for children. By volunteering to help during this session you will be able to spend some quality time with children, and the $25 fee for childcare for your family will be waived. We are grateful for your help!
We will spend time learning and trying several communication skills, drawn from various sources and books. No matter how much you know a technique in your head, it does not seem to show up until we have done it many times. This is your chance to try it. Lori and John have been working on marriage programs for many years. We read, go to workshops, and use the tools in our own lives. This is not just a nice idea. This is what keeps us going.
John Odhner is part of the pastoral staff at Bryn Athyn Church and Lori is Director of Marriage Programs. He and Lori have been married for thirty years and marriage education is part of their life's calling.
How often do you feel disturbed, upset, and resentful –especially when your resentment is justified? Now imagine what it would be like if disturbances did not bother you at all—not because you don’t care, but because you are aware that your ego is the source of all unhappiness. Using a variation of the 12 step program, Peter Rhodes and Ray Silverman have created a DVD that helps people become free of ego concerns—the single most destructive element in any relationship. Ray and Star will show how this DVD program can successfully be used to reconcile difficult relationship issues. If you have a disturbance in your relationship and would like to work it through in this workshop, please come. You do not need to bring your partner, but you do need to bring your disturbance. Through this DVD program you will learn how to respond consciously and transform any situation into one that will lead to your greatest happiness. Experience a life that is happy, joyous and free.
Ray and Star Silverman have been married for 35 years and have raised 7 children. They have received extensive training in marriage education and have developed their own programs—notably Rise Above It— Spiritual Development through the Ten Commandments and the Spiritual Dimensions of Marriage. Star has an MA in Education, University of Denver; Ray, an ordained minister, currently serves as Bryn Athyn College Chaplain, and has a PhD in English and Education from the University of Michigan.
This program about money issues is geared towards teens age 12-20. (A similar program for adults is offered in slot A1.)
- Bank on It
- Check it Out
- Setting Financial Goal – how to keep track of your money
- Pay Yourself First
- Borrowing Basics
- Charge it Right
- Paying for College and Cars – general information on installment loans
- A Roof Over Your Head – what home ownership and renting are all about
Diana Mergen is a work-at-home mom of two children. When she is not managing her household she is working for her real estate investment company which she and her husband, Reuben, started in 2008. Before becoming a mom, Diana worked her way up from being a bank teller to managing operations for 100 banking centers at Bank of America. During that time, she was featured on WHYY during a Money Smart training program that was geared towards helping those who experienced homelessness get back to work. She also spent much of her time volunteering at community centers and schools teaching individuals about the basics of money. It has been Diana’s goal to once again offer this program to those who want to stay in control of their finances. She encourages those, young and old to come and participate in this hands on training about money!
When the life’s love is attacked the life’s warmth takes fire, makes a stand, and breaks out against the assailant.... in order that (their love) may not be extinguished and with it all enthusiasm, vivacity, and all perceptibility of delight from its love. (Married Love §359)
- In this presentation we will explore the following questions:
- What do people currently think jealousness is?
- How is jealousness presented in the Word?
- Is the Lord truly jealous?
- What is the psychology behind jealous emotions and actions?
- How can we keep our own jealousness as a helpful and positive tool in our marriages?
The presentation will be a combination of lecture and group discussion, followed by Q&A.
Alan Cowley is a second year student at the Bryn Athyn theological school. He is married to Susan.
Lael and Mari will open a discussion about how to juggle two careers and still keep marriage a priority.
Lael Odhner works at the Grab Lab at Yale, creating robotics. He has a PhD from MIT, and is working on a postdoc. Mari is a physicians assistant. They were married last summer in Las Vegas.
Degeneration is often hidden from our awareness but can have devastating affects on our mind, heart, body, soul, and marriage. Addiction, abuse, Autism, Alzheimer's, cancer, diabetes, CFS, depression, crime, divorce, materialism, damaging genetic tendencies, for example, are growing problems that also affect children at alarming rates. Enough! Ask yourself, does this matter? How to reverse today's serious trends and turn to regeneration on all levels? Much can be done - roll up your sleeves and think outside the box about life-changing healing and regeneration.
Lisa Childs, BSW, UNH, post-graduate MBA work at Temple University with 8 years in Social Work, 20 years in Computer Science. She is currently Mom and doing publication work for New Church organizations. Lisa was intimately involved with the cancer struggles and death of her mother (1994) and then husband, Garry (2011), always learning along the way.
All marriages today are affected by the presence of pornography around them. And children growing up are even more affected because we can no longer buffer children from porn in the way we used to. We’ll talk about porn and about what we can do to create safe places where marriage can thrive.
Erik Buss is married to Ann and has five children, aged 14-22. He is the assistant pastor at Bryn Athyn Church and has written several books, including One Heart: Finding True Happiness in Marriage.
As a marriage, family and individual therapist for several decades, Mark has a vast history of experience helping people improve their lives, attain healing and begin to rebuild family systems. Join him as he shares ways that have proven helpful to the many clients he has served over a generation of counseling.
Mark Carlson is a Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice in Huntingdon Valley. He has made a significant difference in the lives of many families, persons and marriages over the nearly 35 years of his career. He is also a New Church minister.
Our theme is Giving and Receiving within the marriage relationship. A healthy marriage relationship is a dance of active (yang) and receptive (yin) energies. This workshop is about noticing and celebrating what works as well as offering gentle techniques for support when we find ourselves out of balance. We will introduce essential oils that embody these qualities, explain how to use them, and give examples from our experience. Maximum 10 participants (singles welcome). Note: this workshop involves smelling natural plant essences!
Rich and Anastasia Show love working with plants, teaching, and using essential oils. Anastasia is a Certified Aromatherapist and Rich is a Horticulturalist. We got to know each other through working at our church and in the surrounding gardens and we have been growing together in marriage for three wonderful years.
Marriages bounce from the poles of “I am so in love I can’t stand it” to “I can’t stand it.” Looking at how we discover grace in our relationships, valuing curiosity over assumption seems to be a task constantly put before us. Join us for this interactive workshop as we practice finding a space between the poles, finding curiosity.

Chuck is the Senior Pastor of New Church Live, an innovative experience of contemporary spirituality. He and his wife Keene have five children. Chuck has a passion for teens, for people searching and for religion.
Toxins creep into your relationships but they don’t have to destroy them. Becoming aware of the signs and signals allows you to consciously choose alternative behaviors. In this interactive workshop we will explore such toxins as defensiveness and blame, and learn about the many antidotes, which can prevent damaging conflict and heal emotional wounds. You will walk away with powerful tools to strengthen your marriage and family relationships.
Anna Cole and Monica Leggett met years ago as students at the Coaches Training Institute (CTI). They are certified life coaches in private practice, working with clients around the country, and enjoy collaborating on personal growth workshops. Anna Cole coaches women struggling to find balance between family, work and self. She helps her clients to simplify their lives, practice effective time management, put themselves first, and strengthening their relationships. Anna and her husband, James, have been married for 21 years and have three teenage children. Monica Leggett coaches clients making life and relationship transformations. As a wedding coach, she guides brides, couples and/or moms through the often-stressful journey of planning a wedding while making powerful choices for their relationships. Monica and her husband, Steve, have been married 30 years, have three married children and are expecting a grandchild in April.
We welcome people who would like to help us with providing a wonderful program for children. By volunteering to help during this session you will be able to spend some quality time with children, and the $25 fee for childcare for your family will be waived. We are grateful for your help!
Christina will be leading her popular workshop on making interlocking rings. This workshop is limited to 8 people. No previous metal working experience necessary.
Christina will be leading her popular workshop on making interlocking rings. This workshop is limited to 8 people. No previous metal working experience necessary.

Christina Orthwein and her husband, George, are raising three wonderful boys: Felix, Linus and Oliver. Christina is a photographer as well as a ceramics artist who sells her work through craft sales.
Rock climbing and slacklining allow people to grow individually and also to connect and form meaningful bonds with others through the shared experience of something both physically and mentally demanding. Because rock climbing and slacklining are demanding activities they force us to confront whatever is distracting us within. These activities not only help us identify inner-distractions but they also provide us with a way in which we may overcome them - renewing our inner-energy with balance and becoming more focused and more confident human beings. It doesn't matter what your physical abilities are, or whether or not you've had any prior experience with rock climbing and/or slacklining, please come and join Bess and Jared Alden and learn how to use physical activities to drive your spiritual growth. It is truly amazing to witness your spouse overcome something that once appeared impossible - so come and make your impossible possible!
Bess and Jared Alden love spending time together in the great outdoors. They have been rock climbing and slacklining together for over ten years. Their belief is that by perfecting themselves in the activities they love, they are practicing and experiencing the "art" of perfection; this "art" may be applied naturally to the perfection of marriage.
Yesenia has been dancing her whole life. Perhaps you have seen her on Dancing With the Stars, or on television. She will teach basic skills so come ready to have fun. Yesenia and her husband Zach Walter moved to Pennsylvania from California this summer so that he could attend Theological School.
Yesenia Adame Walter has appeared several times as a special guest performer on Dancing with the Stars. Her television credits also include roles on Brothers and Sisters, Show Me the Money, Days of Our Lives, and Entourage. Yesenia's film credits include Angels & Demons where she was thrilled to work with award-winning producer Brian Grazer and director Ron Howard. She can also be seen in Mano a film based on salsa dancing where she is the female lead.
Join Donna for a fabulous time making music on all kinds of drums. If you have one, bring it, otherwise she will provide them.
Donna Bostock, a working percussionist, music arranger and teacher, specializes in world rhythms and helped found the Bostock Band and Ellas y Amigos. She has been teaching, performing, recording and arranging music for many years and is currently co-teaching instrumental music at the Academy of the New Church as well as directing their past four theater productions. She also teaches at the Philadelphia School, and the Bryn Athyn Church elementary school.
The makers of Fireproof have created a movie about fatherhood. Join us at MPAC for this inspiring flick.
Bring something soft to lie on and join us for a session of gentle Shiatsu. It is a good way to release tension and connect as a couple.
Michelle is married to Landon. They have four children, and she has been practicing Shiatsu for years.
There will be a room ready and soft music playing for anyone who wants to come do a self directed routine. If anyone emerges as a willing guide, that works too. Bring your own mat and wear comfy clothes.
Gail’s “love bead” workshop offers men the opportunity to make a token of love for their partner in the form of a necklace or bracelet. Gail will share many examples of beads and tokens that are symbolic of love and life. Then she will assist each participant in creating their gift from a wide variety of provided materials. No experience necessary; just come to have fun.

Gail Simons, wife of Christopher, has spent her career as a New Church educator. As an educator and an artist, she is intrigued by the creative process. Her particular area of artistic expression is in designing and making jewelry, with beads as her primary material. Gail calls her jewelry work her “therapy.” With retirement around the corner, she wants to offer workshops to help others find their creativity, using beads as a form of expression.
We will needlefelt a quick and easy project. No experience necessary. You will walk away with a finished figure!

Rebekah has done all kinds of crafts her whole life, from jewelry and crocheting to fabric painting and making hats. She and Dan have three sons who are homeschooled. They have been married 14-1/2 years.
Using your hands to relax and heal your partners body is a gift for both of you. Come learn Shiatsu techniques for a simple and effective healing treatment. Shiatsu uses acupressure points and the 12 meridian theory to treat and heal the body. Done fully clothed and on the floor it is a easy to do anytime anywhere. Please bring thick blankets, twin bed size.
Michelle Synnestvedt is an advocate for staying married. She recived her training for The International School of Shiatsu in Doylestown. She has been practicing Shiatsu for 8 years on friends and family.
We welcome people who would like to help us with providing a wonderful program for children. By volunteering to help during this session you will be able to spend some quality time with children, and the $25 fee for childcare for your family will be waived. We are grateful for your help!
Catered Lunch is $15 for adults and teens over 15.
Catered Dinner is $20 for adults and teens over 15.
Catered Lunch is $15 for adults and teens over 15.
Catered Dinner is $22 for adults and teens over 15.
Join Calvin and Maggie for a true grit picture of marriage as it travels over the rocky and rowdy places of life.
Margaret Vanz Odhner, BSN, is a 29 year veteran registered nurse with a specialty in Critical Care. She is the mother of 5 children and is currently a “stay at home mom” residing in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Maggie loves people, homeopathy and babies and often can be seen with all three. With a life and marriage full of failures and success Maggie feels she has grown through the sorrow and joy and is grateful for the unceasing love she feels from her Maker.
Reverend Calvin Acton Odhner, MA, MFT, MDiv., is currently Assistant to the Pastor of the Olivet New Church and School in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Together with his wife Maggie (Van Zyverden) they watch/manage a family of 5 that is mostly out of the house but always in touch. Calvin is enjoying teaching, counseling and preaching in the Toronto church society and looks forward to discovering new ways to spread the church. He is also a self-described guitar-playing-Laureliting-SWETtie-Warrior with a passion for men’s work and healing.
We welcome people who would like to help us with providing a wonderful program for children. By volunteering to help during this session you will be able to spend some quality time with children, and the $25 fee for childcare for your family will be waived. We are grateful for your help!
We will deal with money issues that adults commonly face. (A program for teens is in slot B3.)
- Bank on It – an introduction to bank services
- Borrowing Basics – an introduction to credit
- Check it Out – how to choose and keep a checking account
- Money Matters – how to keep track of your money
- Pay Yourself First – why you should save, save, save
- Keep it Sage – your rights as a consumer
- To Your Credit – how your credit history will affect your credit future
- Charge it Right – how to make a credit card work for you
- Loan to Own – know what you’re borrowing before you buy
- Your Own Home – what home ownership is all about
Diana Mergen is a work-at-home mom of two children. When she is not managing her household she is working for her real estate investment company which she and her husband, Reuben, started in 2008. Before becoming a mom, Diana worked her way up from being a bank teller to managing operations for 100 banking centers at Bank of America. During that time, she was featured on WHYY during a Money Smart training program that was geared towards helping those who experienced homelessness get back to work. She also spent much of her time volunteering at community centers and schools teaching individuals about the basics of money. It has been Diana’s goal to once again offer this program to those who want to stay in control of their finances. She encourages those, young and old to come and participate in this hands on training about money!
Boundaries...what are they and do we need them? Robert Frost says that "good fences build good neighbors". Do they? Join us as we discuss and do some role-playing in order to learn more about healthy boundaries. We think ALL relationships need healthy ones...not flimsy ones, not walls. Come explore with us and have a chance to laugh at yourself while you are at it!
Gwenda and Michael met at church camp (Maple Leaf Academy) in 1974. After graduating college and Theological school respectively, they married in 1982. During the span of their 29 years together, they raised 6 kids (two are married). They served the Church in 5 different congregations, especially loving their work at Laurel and Maple camps. Michael is the pastor of the Lord's new Church and Gwenda teaches high school girls about relationships and marriage. They dream of someday building a cabin in the woods...
"If you're happy, then I'm happy. If you're angry, then I'm angry." That's codependency. And yet we also know that true love is experiencing the joy of another as joy in oneself (see DLW 47). So how do we experience that mutual sharing, without losing our individuality and simply depending on our spouse for our own happiness? Angel couples are stronger individuals, as well as having one of the closest relationships imaginable. So how do we find that sweet spot of inter-dependence, which means that our individual happiness doesn't depend on our spouse, and yet we are also able to experience intimate mutual trust, and a sharing of affections? We will share some ideas we've learned from various books. We will also have self-evaluation tools. And we hope to have a discussion with you about this important challenge in marriage.
Solomon and Tiral Keal have been married nearly eleven years. Solomon is a candidate for the ministry, hoping to graduate and be ordained in May. They have five children and have a passion for supporting marriage. Solomon and Tirah also have a music ministry which you can hear at www.solomonkeal.com.
Sig and Judy have been married for almost 38 years. They have four children and 4 granddaughters. In 1993 their oldest daughter, Erin, died from cancer. Sig's brother, Sven, died at the age of 43; and his father died when Sig was 21. Dealing with the grief, loss and pain has been a struggle for many years. Many people have been affected by recent deaths in the past year in Bryn Athyn. The Pastor's Office has recognized a growing need to provide support to these grieving individuals. Sig was asked to run a support group similar to the very successful Widow/Widowers group. The first meeting is scheduled for January 16th and the next meeting will be February 20th. The group is called Loss And Found. This workshop will be an opportunity for participants to come together for support as they deal with various losses. The focus will be on the death of a loved one. We may touch on other losses such as jobs, marriages, physical abilities and cognitive functioning. We all experience loss in our lives. Finding a place to feel supported is a gift. Sig retired last year, after working for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for 34 years. He worked as a Recreation Therapist, Vocational Counselor and Rehabilitation Supervisor. He is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. He also volunteers for the Bryn Athyn Fire Company as an EMT/driver.
Sig Soneson retired last year after working for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for 34 years. He worked as a Recreation Therapist, Vocational Counselor and Rehabilitation Supervisor. He is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. He also volunteers for the Bryn Athyn Fire Company as an EMT/driver.
- Learn new ways to manage stress that will make your relationship stronger and improve your communication skills.
- Identify your Stress Type: your reactions and responses to stress and the importance of knowing your partner’s stress type.
- Learn the kinds of stress that affects couples;
- Primary stress is your stress
- Secondary stress- your partner’s stress, and
- Inter-couple stress, which involves both members on the same issue: parenting, finances, vacation decisions etc.
- You will learn strategies to overcome Primary, Secondary, and Inter- couple stress.
Anna Cole is a certified professional life coach from the premier coaching school, Coaches Training Institute. She is married to James Cole and works with busy moms and professional moms who struggle balancing family, work, and self. Anna helps her clients strengthen their relationships, let go of guilt, improve self-confidence so they create lives and careers they love. Visit her website at AnnaCole.com.
Monica Leggett is a writer, speaker, life coach and relationships specialist, who coaches clients making life and relationship transformations. Monica is certified in PeopleMap ™ Systems, a personality assessment tool, which helps individuals, couples, small business owners, and work teams to identify their individual strengths, Achilles Heels, communication styles, response to stress, and areas for personal, professional, and relationship growth. Visit her website at www.NewStepsLifeCoaching.com.
Often we regret the actions or words that come out of us when we seem to be overpowered by strong and difficult emotions. We don't want to just bottle them, but what do we do with them that is still in line with the Lord's injunction to "love others as ourselves" and to "set a guard over our mouth"? I have explored some ideas found in modern psychology and brain research that suggest techniques we can learn to make us tolerant of our emotions, that is, able to ride out the storm and act from good. I am not in any way an expert on this, but I hope to share what I've learned about impulse control and the brain. We'll look at connections between New Church thought and psychological thought and aim at practical ways to use these ideas to help our marriages and dealings with our kids.
Ann Buss is an artist, and enjoys teaching about the magic of color and paint. She and her husband, Erik, lived in South Africa for a decade, and some of her paintings from that time reflect the images of that country. They moved to the United States a year-and-a-half ago with their five children.
Alaina Mabaso's book The Conjugial Culture describes some issues with the way the book Conjugial Love has been taught in the Academy of the New Church and in the the New Church. The workshop will be an open discussion of some of these topics. You are welcome to join us whether or not you have read the book. We can focus on particular chapters and passages if people wish.
Linda Simonetti Odhner has been married to Dewey for almost thirty years, and has taught workshops on a range of topics concerning marriage, sexuality, childbearing, and childrearing.
No one diet is right for everyone. All foods—even healthy foods—have different effects on different bodies. While foods like soy, oranges, and corn are healthy additions for some people, for others they can trigger weight gain, asthma, migraines or even depression. Are you often tired? Do you have high cholesterol, high blood pressure, digestive issues, or brain-fog? Do you have excess weight that won’t budge? You could be suffering from a food-related intolerance. Come learn about this program and discover that your body has the answers to your well-being!
Star Silverman, M.A. in Education, University of Denver, has been leading spiritual growth groups and marriage education programs since 1989. In 2008, she transferred this experience to the field of nutrition, including motivational strategies for optimum health. Since then, hundreds of participants have experienced new levels of health and vitality through the simple practice of learning to listen to their own body. Star is happily married to Ray 35+ years and they have raised seven children. At this point she is living in gratitude and enjoying the blessings of extended family, friends, and especially grandchildren.
A good marriage takes work. It requires consciousness and attention. Men often work hard, pay a good deal of attention and are conscious of what they are doing- everywhere that is except to their marriage. Come explore what men can bring to a marriage.
Chris Lermitte has been happily married to Debra Morey Lermitte for going on 19 years. Having met after both being divorced, Chris and Debra are serious about thriving in their marriage. Soon after marrying in 1993, they helped create "Marriage Enrichment: The Sequel" -- a support group for couples who were also on their second marriages. The group ran for 13 years and they count the time spent as an important part of their marital and spiritual growth.
We welcome people who would like to help us with providing a wonderful program for children. By volunteering to help during this session you will be able to spend some quality time with children, and the $25 fee for childcare for your family will be waived. We are grateful for your help!
John Odhner is part of the pastoral staff at Bryn Athyn Church and Lori is Director of Marriage Programs. He and Lori have been married for thirty years and marriage education is part of their life's calling.
We will spend time learning and trying several communication skills, drawn from various sources and books. No matter how much you know a technique in your head, it does not seem to show up until we have done it many times. This is your chance to try it. Lori and John have been working on marriage programs for many years. We read, go to workshops, and use the tools in our own lives. This is not just a nice idea. This is what keeps us going.
How often do you feel disturbed, upset, and resentful –especially when your resentment is justified? Now imagine what it would be like if disturbances did not bother you at all—not because you don’t care, but because you are aware that your ego is the source of all unhappiness. Using a variation of the 12 step program, Peter Rhodes and Ray Silverman have created a DVD that helps people become free of ego concerns—the single most destructive element in any relationship. Ray and Star will show how this DVD program can successfully be used to reconcile difficult relationship issues. If you have a disturbance in your relationship and would like to work it through in this workshop, please come. You do not need to bring your partner, but you do need to bring your disturbance. Through this DVD program you will learn how to respond consciously and transform any situation into one that will lead to your greatest happiness. Experience a life that is happy, joyous and free.
Ray and Star Silverman have been married for 35 years and have raised 7 children. They have received extensive training in marriage education and have developed their own programs—notably Rise Above It— Spiritual Development through the Ten Commandments and the Spiritual Dimensions of Marriage. Star has an MA in Education, University of Denver; Ray, an ordained minister, currently serves as Bryn Athyn College Chaplain, and has a PhD in English and Education from the University of Michigan.
This program about money issues is geared towards teens age 12-20. (A similar program for adults is offered in slot A1.)
- Bank on It
- Check it Out
- Setting Financial Goal – how to keep track of your money
- Pay Yourself First
- Borrowing Basics
- Charge it Right
- Paying for College and Cars – general information on installment loans
- A Roof Over Your Head – what home ownership and renting are all about
Diana Mergen is a work-at-home mom of two children. When she is not managing her household she is working for her real estate investment company which she and her husband, Reuben, started in 2008. Before becoming a mom, Diana worked her way up from being a bank teller to managing operations for 100 banking centers at Bank of America. During that time, she was featured on WHYY during a Money Smart training program that was geared towards helping those who experienced homelessness get back to work. She also spent much of her time volunteering at community centers and schools teaching individuals about the basics of money. It has been Diana’s goal to once again offer this program to those who want to stay in control of their finances. She encourages those, young and old to come and participate in this hands on training about money!
When the life’s love is attacked the life’s warmth takes fire, makes a stand, and breaks out against the assailant.... in order that (their love) may not be extinguished and with it all enthusiasm, vivacity, and all perceptibility of delight from its love. (Married Love §359)
- In this presentation we will explore the following questions:
- What do people currently think jealousness is?
- How is jealousness presented in the Word?
- Is the Lord truly jealous?
- What is the psychology behind jealous emotions and actions?
- How can we keep our own jealousness as a helpful and positive tool in our marriages?
The presentation will be a combination of lecture and group discussion, followed by Q&A.
Alan Cowley is a second year student at the Bryn Athyn theological school. He is married to Susan.
Lael and Mari will open a discussion about how to juggle two careers and still keep marriage a priority.
Lael Odhner works at the Grab Lab at Yale, creating robotics. He has a PhD from MIT, and is working on a postdoc. Mari is a physicians assistant. They were married last summer in Las Vegas.
Degeneration is often hidden from our awareness but can have devastating affects on our mind, heart, body, soul, and marriage. Addiction, abuse, Autism, Alzheimer's, cancer, diabetes, CFS, depression, crime, divorce, materialism, damaging genetic tendencies, for example, are growing problems that also affect children at alarming rates. Enough! Ask yourself, does this matter? How to reverse today's serious trends and turn to regeneration on all levels? Much can be done - roll up your sleeves and think outside the box about life-changing healing and regeneration.
Lisa Childs, BSW, UNH, post-graduate MBA work at Temple University with 8 years in Social Work, 20 years in Computer Science. She is currently Mom and doing publication work for New Church organizations. Lisa was intimately involved with the cancer struggles and death of her mother (1994) and then husband, Garry (2011), always learning along the way.
All marriages today are affected by the presence of pornography around them. And children growing up are even more affected because we can no longer buffer children from porn in the way we used to. We’ll talk about porn and about what we can do to create safe places where marriage can thrive.
Erik Buss is married to Ann and has five children, aged 14-22. He is the assistant pastor at Bryn Athyn Church and has written several books, including One Heart: Finding True Happiness in Marriage.
Mark Carlson is a Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice in Huntingdon Valley. He has made a significant difference in the lives of many families, persons and marriages over the nearly 35 years of his career. He is also a New Church minister.
As a marriage, family and individual therapist for several decades, Mark has a vast history of experience helping people improve their lives, attain healing and begin to rebuild family systems. Join him as he shares ways that have proven helpful to the many clients he has served over a generation of counseling.
Our theme is Giving and Receiving within the marriage relationship. A healthy marriage relationship is a dance of active (yang) and receptive (yin) energies. This workshop is about noticing and celebrating what works as well as offering gentle techniques for support when we find ourselves out of balance. We will introduce essential oils that embody these qualities, explain how to use them, and give examples from our experience. Maximum 10 participants (singles welcome). Note: this workshop involves smelling natural plant essences!
Rich and Anastasia Show love working with plants, teaching, and using essential oils. Anastasia is a Certified Aromatherapist and Rich is a Horticulturalist. We got to know each other through working at our church and in the surrounding gardens and we have been growing together in marriage for three wonderful years.
We welcome people who would like to help us with providing a wonderful program for children. By volunteering to help during this session you will be able to spend some quality time with children, and the $25 fee for childcare for your family will be waived. We are grateful for your help!
Christina will be leading her popular workshop on making interlocking rings. This workshop is limited to 8 people. No previous metal working experience necessary.
Christina will be leading her popular workshop on making interlocking rings. This workshop is limited to 8 people. No previous metal working experience necessary.

Christina Orthwein and her husband, George, are raising three wonderful boys: Felix, Linus and Oliver. Christina is a photographer as well as a ceramics artist who sells her work through craft sales.
Rock climbing and slacklining allow people to grow individually and also to connect and form meaningful bonds with others through the shared experience of something both physically and mentally demanding. Because rock climbing and slacklining are demanding activities they force us to confront whatever is distracting us within. These activities not only help us identify inner-distractions but they also provide us with a way in which we may overcome them - renewing our inner-energy with balance and becoming more focused and more confident human beings. It doesn't matter what your physical abilities are, or whether or not you've had any prior experience with rock climbing and/or slacklining, please come and join Bess and Jared Alden and learn how to use physical activities to drive your spiritual growth. It is truly amazing to witness your spouse overcome something that once appeared impossible - so come and make your impossible possible!
Bess and Jared Alden love spending time together in the great outdoors. They have been rock climbing and slacklining together for over ten years. Their belief is that by perfecting themselves in the activities they love, they are practicing and experiencing the "art" of perfection; this "art" may be applied naturally to the perfection of marriage.
Yesenia has been dancing her whole life. Perhaps you have seen her on Dancing With the Stars, or on television. She will teach basic skills so come ready to have fun. Yesenia and her husband Zach Walter moved to Pennsylvania from California this summer so that he could attend Theological School.
Yesenia Adame Walter has appeared several times as a special guest performer on Dancing with the Stars. Her television credits also include roles on Brothers and Sisters, Show Me the Money, Days of Our Lives, and Entourage. Yesenia's film credits include Angels & Demons where she was thrilled to work with award-winning producer Brian Grazer and director Ron Howard. She can also be seen in Mano a film based on salsa dancing where she is the female lead.
Join Donna for a fabulous time making music on all kinds of drums. If you have one, bring it, otherwise she will provide them.
Donna Bostock, a working percussionist, music arranger and teacher, specializes in world rhythms and helped found the Bostock Band and Ellas y Amigos. She has been teaching, performing, recording and arranging music for many years and is currently co-teaching instrumental music at the Academy of the New Church as well as directing their past four theater productions. She also teaches at the Philadelphia School, and the Bryn Athyn Church elementary school.
The makers of Fireproof have created a movie about fatherhood. Join us at MPAC for this inspiring flick.
Bring something soft to lie on and join us for a session of gentle Shiatsu. It is a good way to release tension and connect as a couple.
Michelle is married to Landon. They have four children, and she has been practicing Shiatsu for years.
We welcome people who would like to help us with providing a wonderful program for children. By volunteering to help during this session you will be able to spend some quality time with children, and the $25 fee for childcare for your family will be waived. We are grateful for your help!
Catered Lunch is $15 for adults and teens over 15.
Catered Dinner is $20 for adults and teens over 15.
Catered Lunch is $15 for adults and teens over 15.
Catered Dinner is $22 for adults and teens over 15.
Be sure to enter your children's ages so the appropriate options will appear.
Teens who help provide child care for younger children will be paid for their work. (13-14 year olds earn $5/hr., 15-17 year olds earn $7/hr.).
During the adult sessions we offer child care. Please let us know which sessions your child will be attending. Children may help with the Sunday afternoon service project (there are no other child care activities at that time).
Catered Lunch is $4 for children age 1-4. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $4 for children age 1-4. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $4 for children age 1-4. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $15 for adults and teens over 15.
Catered Dinner is $22 for adults and teens over 15.
Teens who help provide child care for younger children will be paid for their work. (13-14 year olds earn $5/hr., 15-17 year olds earn $7/hr.).
During the adult sessions we offer child care. Please let us know which sessions your child will be attending. Children may help with the Sunday afternoon service project (there are no other child care activities at that time).
Catered Lunch is $4 for children age 1-4. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $4 for children age 1-4. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $4 for children age 1-4. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $15 for adults and teens over 15.
Catered Dinner is $22 for adults and teens over 15.
Teens who help provide child care for younger children will be paid for their work. (13-14 year olds earn $5/hr., 15-17 year olds earn $7/hr.).
During the adult sessions we offer child care. Please let us know which sessions your child will be attending. Children may help with the Sunday afternoon service project (there are no other child care activities at that time).
Catered Lunch is $4 for children age 1-4. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $4 for children age 1-4. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $4 for children age 1-4. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $15 for adults and teens over 15.
Catered Dinner is $22 for adults and teens over 15.
Teens who help provide child care for younger children will be paid for their work. (13-14 year olds earn $5/hr., 15-17 year olds earn $7/hr.).
During the adult sessions we offer child care. Please let us know which sessions your child will be attending. Children may help with the Sunday afternoon service project (there are no other child care activities at that time).
Catered Lunch is $4 for children age 1-4. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $4 for children age 1-4. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $4 for children age 1-4. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $15 for adults and teens over 15.
Catered Dinner is $22 for adults and teens over 15.
Teens who help provide child care for younger children will be paid for their work. (13-14 year olds earn $5/hr., 15-17 year olds earn $7/hr.).
During the adult sessions we offer child care. Please let us know which sessions your child will be attending. Children may help with the Sunday afternoon service project (there are no other child care activities at that time).
Catered Lunch is $4 for children age 1-4. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $4 for children age 1-4. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $4 for children age 1-4. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Dinner is $8 for children age 5-15. Children will be with their parents during meal times. Child care is provided during sessions only, not during meals.
Catered Lunch is $15 for adults and teens over 15.
Catered Dinner is $22 for adults and teens over 15.
Be sure to select volunteering for child care for the session you would prefer above. Thanks!
We welcome donations for raffle prizes. If you have something you would like to donate to be raffled, please describe it here.
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