To learn more about our Support & Interest Groups, click on the group you are interested in:

Souljourners

Souljourners seeks to address the subtle and not-so-subtle challenges facing men today. Sessions include short presentations on current issues commonly facing men, referencing contemporary authors such as Sam Keen, Herb Goldberg, John Grey, and Warren Farrell. The presentations are followed by a group processing time, allowing for reflection and discussion. Topics may include:

• Modern Myths/Modern Man
• Work and Worth
• Male/Female Communication Styles
• The Changing Face of Manhood
• Fathers and Sons
• Fathers and Daughters
• Masculine Spirituality

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MANifest

MANifest Weekend

Men may talk easily about work, sports, and politics, but there are few opportunities for men to talk about their journey as a man. MANifest weekends provide this opportunity. The weekend gives men extended time to take a look inside themselves and to bridge the emotional disconnect that so often happens in the traditional rearing of most men in this society. The weekend is a time to get past the "no fear," "no sadness," "emphasize toughness," "reinforce anger "messages and values so many men carry around with them. The emotional lives of men need to be explored, acknowledged, and celebrated by men, individually and collectively. Retreats are held in a rustic, outdoor setting that provides a sense of connection with nature. The weekend is open to any interested man. Call (515) 274-4006 for more information.

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MANifest Workshops

Men and Their Fathers

Whether a man did or did not have a relationship with his father is a powerful influence on the developing male personality. Men continue to deal with their dad’s physical and emotional presence or absence within their relationships throughout their adult lives. When sons grow up with little or no expression of a father’s affirmation and blessing, they often carry a sense of failure, or shame, or anger that seems unrelated to life events. “Men and Their Fathers” workshop will provide participants the opportunity to explore these issues within their particular growing-up situations. Please call the Center to pre-register.

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Men and Sex

Henry David Thoreau once said, “I lose my respect for the man who will make a coarse jest about sex, but when asked to speak seriously on the subject remains silent.” Gym classes, locker rooms, and maybe an extremely awkward “birds and the bees” talk with a parent are the sum of most male experience with sexual discourse growing up. No wonder most men find it very difficult to know where to begin to have a serious discussion about sex. It has been the observation of the facilitators that the more men can have serious discussions, the more confidence they’ll feel in their sexuality. "Men and Sex” workshop will provide an opportunity for men to explore the sexual/emotional connection and enhance their understanding of themselves as sexual human beings.

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Male/Female Communication

This workshop will provide insights to more effective communication with your spouse / partner.

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W-O-M-A-N

Boys typically are nurtured, cared for, and supervised by women through their elementary school years. Boys develop an internalized view of women from all these experiences that Sam Keen, author of Fire in the Belly, calls W-O-M-A-N. This internalized image may vary from goddess to temptress. This workshop will explore these images and how they may affect a man’s relationships with women in his life. Please call the Center to pre-register (274-4006).

Parents of Children With Asperger Syndrome

This support group is for parents of children with Asperger Syndrome. Parents share their experience, strength, and hope regarding their special needs children. Questions about this group can be directed to Grace Percival at (515) 274-4006.

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Parents of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders

This group is for parents of children (ages 5 and younger) diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders who are interested in mutual support, Applied Behavior Analysis, and/or biomedical intervention. Questions about this group can be directed to Grace Percival at the Center (515) 274-4006.

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Young Adults Socializing

On Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m., there is a social gathering for young adults, ages 18-29, with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The group meets at Caribou Coffee, 3220 Ingersoll Avenue, in Des Moines, for an hour of cards and games. All young adults, ages 18 - 29, are invited to join in.

Our young adults with autism do not easily form social relationships because the initiating of social activity is difficult. However, like any young person, they long to be in relationship with people their own age. This social opportunities group is an attempt to provide a time where young people can gather to laugh and share their lives through cards and board games. Participation is NOT limited to individuals with autism. The only requirement is one must be younger than 30 years of age and at least 18 years of age. A desire to have fun is also recommended.

There is also a “Movie Night” for young adults held at Plymouth Congregational Church, hosted by Sally Pederson and Jim Autry. Movie Nights are scheduled for Fridays, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. This is another social opportunities event open to all young adults, ages 18 to 29. Plymouth Church is located at 42nd Street and Ingersoll Avenue in Des Moines.

For questions or additional information, please contact the Des Moines Pastoral Counseling Center, 274-4006.

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