VISTA CAMPUS | SATURDAYS 11AM-12:30PM | October 11 – November 15
Grace in the Gap: A Christian Journey Through Family Estrangement
Based on the book Rules of Estrangement by Joshua Coleman
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Family estrangement brings deep pain, especially for parents longing for reconciliation with their adult children. This 6-week faith-based course draws on insights from Dr. Joshua Coleman’s Rules of Estrangement while grounding each session in Christian principles of compassion, forgiveness, and hope. Through Scripture, prayer, and guided reflection, participants will explore the emotional challenges of estrangement, learn practical tools for healthy communication, and seek God’s wisdom for healing—whether reconciliation comes soon, later, or only through personal peace. This course offers a supportive space for parents to process their experiences, grow spiritually, and trust God’s work in their families.
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Week 1 – Facing Estrangement with Faith
• Understanding why estrangement happens and debunking common myths
• Reflecting on God’s heart for families and the hope He offers
• Scripture: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted” (Psalm 34:18)
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Week 2 – Grief, Guilt, and Grace
• Naming the emotional impact: loss, regret, shame, anger
• Exploring God’s grace when you feel like you’ve failed
• Reflection and prayer for healing hearts
• Scripture: “My grace is sufficient for you” (2 Corinthians 12:9)
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Week 3 – Responsibility, Boundaries, and Letting God Lead
• Taking ownership without falling into self-condemnation
• Understanding healthy boundaries through a biblical lens
• Journaling exercise: Surrendering control to God
• Scripture: “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7)
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Week 4 – Speaking the Truth in Love
• Practical guidance on writing letters or reaching out with humility
• How to show love and respect, even with strained communication
• Role-play conversations in a grace-filled way
• Scripture: “Let your conversation be always full of grace” (Colossians 4:6)
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Week 5 – When Reconciliation Isn’t Immediate
• Finding peace and trusting God’s timing
• Healing from bitterness through forgiveness and prayer
• Guided meditation: Releasing your child into God’s hands
• Scripture: “Be kind and compassionate… forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32)
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Week 6 – Moving Forward in Hope
• Creating a personal faith-based plan for healing and growth
• Sharing testimonies, reflections, and prayers for one another
• Scripture: “For I know the plans I have for you… plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11)
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Class Format:
• Weekly 90-minute sessions
• Prayer and Scripture reflections
• Group discussion and journaling exercises
• Optional at-home readings and prayer prompts
If you have questions about this group please contact Susan Trueblood at strueblood@northcoastchurch.com.