Rites of Passage: A missing link in the building of communityHistorically, intentional rites of passage marking the transition from adolescence to adulthood were an intrinsic part of human cultures. The absence of wide spread rite of passage in modern Western culture is conspicuous. This session explains the hallmarks of rites of passage and initiatory terrain and offers examples of how it was created historically. Modern examples of rites of passage processes currently is use are also offered. This is a fascinating area of learning which unfailingly reminds participants of their own life stories and pivotal moments. The use of participants' own stories will help to illuminate and understand the human need for rite of passage experiences. Practical skill building will include learning to see rites of passage needs in current youth culture, avoiding emotional triggering by youth's negative behaviors, and concrete examples of ways to implement rite of passage knowledge into typical work and social environments. Questions we will explore will include...What price do we pay for this omitted practice of human development? How are youth initiating themselves in the absence of intentional rites of passage? Who serves as elders and guides in youth culture? What are the role of peer groups and gangs? What 'ultimate standards of reference' are being imprinted in our youth? What stories are being told in our culture that act formationally? Who is telling them? What can be done to help fill this void? This content is for parents, educators, youth workers, school administrators, health care and justice system professionals, and other interested parties Session Length: Full day workshop, half day/evening also available. Rites of Passage has been presented at: BC Alternate Education Conference BC School District # 70 BC United Church Youth Ministry Certificate Program Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver Calgary Immigrant Services CAPS Family Services - New Zealand City of Eugene Recreation - Oregon, USA Conflict Resolution Network of Canada EDUCO - BC Manology: Exploring 21st Century Masculinity - Vancouver Methodist Ladies College - Melbourne, Australia Oregon Youth Authority - USA PD Seminars - New Zealand Place Maillardville Community Centre - Coquitlam, BC St. Georges Senior School - Vancouver Tatamagouche Centre - Nova Scotia | |