Parenting the next generation is more than care – it is an opportunity for spiritual leadership and social healing.
This certificate program invites ministry leaders across the United States to deepen their capacity to support parents and caregivers as spiritual leaders and agents of justice in their homes and communities.
Rooted in the values of inclusion, compassion, and collective liberation, the Parenting for Spiritual and Social Transformation Certificate Program equips faith-rooted leaders with tools to guide families through the sacred work of nurturing the next generation. Participants will explore parenting as a spiritual practice, a form of resistance to injustice, and a pathway to community renewal.
What You’ll Gain:
Theological and practical foundations for parenting as a form of spiritual leadership
Tools for supporting caregivers navigating racism, inequity, and intergenerational trauma
Frameworks for inclusive, liberative, and healing-centered parenting practices
A supportive network of ministry peers committed to justice and transformation
Who Should Join:
This program is for clergy and ministry leaders who accompany parents and primary caregivers of children in diverse settings. It is especially suited for those committed to fostering inclusion, racial equity, and the spiritual thriving of children and families.
Join us—and be part of a movement where parenting becomes a path of spiritual and social renewal.
“When our children experience a greater capacity for compassion, wholeness, and justice, it will give us the best chance to parent our way into a different kind of future.”
— Rev. Neddy Yong
These SACRED practices offer a flexible and practical life-giving rhythm that can be practiced individually, within families, and in community.
Program Structure
Each module focuses on a key paradigm for personal and relational healing:
Each module integrates contemplative practice, teaching, small group reflection, and real-world application for ministry contexts.
Participants will be trained in the Sacred Parenthood framework developed by Dr. Aizaiah G. Yong and Rev. Nereyda Yong, a contemplative approach to parenthood that fosters healing and social renewal:
Settle
Acknowledge
Curiosity
Restore
Enjoy
Dance
Program Details
Facilitators: Rev. Dr. Aizaiah Yong and Rev. Neddy Yong
Certification: Upon completion, participants receive a certificate from the Radically Inclusive Parenting Project for their training in Parenting for Spiritual & Social Transformation
Registration Cost: $500 per congregation for up to 2 participants per organization
Continuing Education Units are available for this program but subject to an additional processing fee
BONUS:
Participants who complete the program are eligible to apply for a grant up to $5,000 to launch or enhance a parenting initiative with their local congregation!
Our leadership team offers coaching, guidance and encouragement as you envision how to transform parenting in your local context.
See what our first leaders built with their subgrants, just below.
sub-grant projects
Where the Training Takes Root
Leadership Certificate Program participants received subgrants to launch or grow parenting initiatives in their congregations and communities. Explore their projects and see spiritual leadership for parents and caregivers in action.
Hikari: SACRED Parenting in God's Garden
Led by: Deaconess Jeri Okamoto-Tanaka and Rev. Kiana Nicholson
West Los Angeles United Methodist Church, Los Angeles, CA
The Hikari Project offers Los Angeles parents an alternative to high-intensity parenting through contemplative practice, mindful listening, and compassionate connection with children and partners.
Sacred Parenthood Workshop Series
Led by: Shaynii Davidson and Rev. Ursula McClure
City of Refuge UCC, Oakland, CA
Weekend workshops at eight TFAM churches teach Christian parents and caregivers the SACRED framework to build spiritual awareness, resilience, and family connection.
SACRED Roots Parenting Conversations
Led by: Sister J. Aisha Wilks and Minister Keva Presley
Truth & Destiny Covenant Ministries, Cincinnati, OH
This project uses shared learning, dialogue, and affirming tools to help parents feel seen, equipped, and never isolated.
Sacred Parent Retreat
Led by: Xan West & Rev. Jean Jeffress
Plymouth Congregational UCC, Oakland, CA
This retreat gives parents and caregivers rest and spaciousness as they carry global suffering while nurturing their children’s joy.
Growing Together: Parenting in Recovery Group
ed by: Bailley Murray
Nokomis Heights Lutheran Church, Twin Cities, MN
Growing Together creates a sober community where 3 to 7 families can pursue parental recovery while reintegrating into their children’s lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes, all cohort sessions will be held on Zoom.
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The sessions will not be recorded, however supplemental materials will be provided for all participants.
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Yes, at this time our focus is to train and equip ministry leaders in the United States who support parenting and caregiving initiatives.
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Yes, CEU's are available for those who complete the program through the Claremont School of Theology for an additional processing fee.
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Our adaptable methodology serves manufacturing, retail, professional services, and public sector entities.