FOCUS Ministries (in a wonderful collaboration with illustrator Maya Dzik) is very excited to announce the recent completion of our latest publication, Time To Talk. Just in time for February — Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month — this booklet is specifically designed for families and church youth groups to start those very important conversations about healthy relationships.
We don’t waste any time getting right into it — the first section describes dating violence in all of its terrible flavors: physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional and verbal abuse. We are quick to show the teens and young adults what early warning signs to watch for when they begin new relationships. We’ve all see those ugly “red flags” and often ignored them. We explain the power and control motive behind abuse as well as the cycle of abuse in relationships. NOTEWORTHY: Abuse can happen in romantic relationships, friendships and in family dynamics.
Our 32-page booklet explains the origins of sin according to God’s Word the Bible — we go back to the Garden of Eden when sin destroyed the original perfect home, family and happy trusting friendship. We include a Gospel message and God’s good plan for healthy relationships. There is a large section on how to have healthy boundaries in our relationships based on Cloud and Townsend’s classics, Boundaries and Boundaries in Dating. Of course, we offer a whole page of possible questions to talk about! If teens or families need additional resources, they are easily found on the back cover.
Our illustrator, Maya Dzik, is a local teen who knows and loves the Lord Jesus Christ. We think you will find her colorful artwork compelling, hopeful and thought-provoking.
Healthy relationships matter, no matter if we are young or old. And it is Time To Talk about that.
Please contact FOCUS Ministries for more information about receiving your own copies of this important new booklet.
