Congregation-based classes
Are there a few pregnant moms in your church? Invite me to teach a Lamaze class for families in your congregation. In a congregation-based childbirth class, you can:
- Develop a stronger support network. During the classes, you will have the chance to bond with other young families who will be part of your community long after the birth of your baby.
- Talk about the spiritual aspects of birth and parenting. Faith affects the way we see the world and understand our lives. Surrounded by people from your own religious tradition, you can feel free to talk about what is in your heart as you move through this holy time of life.
- Receive the highest quality childbirth education. Our classes will include all the same information that is in standard Lamaze classes. We will look at the latest research about birth, talk about what to expect during the process, and prepare partners to take the role that feels right for them. For more information on class content, see: www.Lamazeclasses.org
Where I'm coming from:
I believe that in giving birth and parenting, her job is the same as it always is: to live more deeply into the love of Christ. It's a big job, but an abundance of grace is available to help us, and boundless forgiveness is ours when we fall short. In our culture, quite a bit of fear surrounds birth and the decisions that we are asked to make about it. Putting the experience of birth into the framework of faith allows us to work through any fears or disappointment as well as to celebrate the beauty of the experience with greater joy.
Birth and parenting offers special opportunities to encounter God's love and forgiveness. Because each labor is different, and each person's walk with God is unique, it is not my job to teach anyone how they should experience the spiritual aspects of birth. However, I can share my enthusiasm for the glory of it all, and encourage new parents to live into that grace even more fully.
I'm a Christian and a Quaker, and my community has recognized me he as having an emerging gift of Gospel ministry. I believe that there is value in the diversity of Christian tradition, and I respectfully support people even when their traditions differ from mine.
Frequently asked questions:
What are congregation-based classes like?
They are very much like my standard Lamaze classes, which include discussions, practicing comfort measures, demonstrations, videos, games, and more. We open and close each class with an opportunity to share some of our favorite prayers, and there are some discussions when I or my students might bring up issues of faith.
Where are the classes held?
In your church, probably. We need space to sit comfortably as well as to stretch out on the floor to try different labor positions and comfort measures. A DVD player would be ideal, but not necessary. If space in your church is not available, we will look for an alternative location.
What is the class schedule?
We will pick a regular schedule for the class based when we and our space are available. These classes are 12 to 15 hours long. We can divide up that time between three, four, five, or six sessions. The more sessions we can schedule, the more the students will be able to get out of the class.
How much does it cost?
It depends on the number of people who sign up before the first day of class
2-4 couples: $150 per couple
5-8 couples: $130 per couple
I can offer a discount for people who are on Minnesota Care or Medicaid. I will collect payment on or before the first day of class unless I have a special arrangement with someone. Refunds are not available.
What if there are not enough pregnant moms at my church?
You could check around at some other like-minded churches to see if other moms might be interested. I am also available for private classes, at a charge of $25 per hour.
What if some moms at the beginning of their pregnancies and other moms are at the end of their pregnancies?
If someone is taking this class during the first half of the pregnancy, I will offer them a free 45-minute refresher class by phone during their third trimester. The expectant family can call me and set up that phone date when the time feels right to them.
Where do you teach?
- Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the southern suburbs: I am free Sunday evenings after 6:30 PM as well as many Sunday afternoons if I end by 4 p.m. I might have some Saturday availability as well.
- Northfield, Faribault, Lakeville, and Farmington: I have quite a bit of scheduling flexibility.
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