For Ministry Leaders -
Many churches unintentionally have a gap in their "age-and-stage" programs and curriculum. (E.g., they have them for young adults, parents of children/teens, and seniors - but don't have anything specific for 40-65 age members). In your own church or ministry, have you found "middle adults" gradually disappearing? If so, you are not alone. Church research reports that especially since COVID, middle adults are leaving the church in surprising numbers because they don't feel their needs are being met.
There are other empty nest books, but my heart was drawn to provide a tool specifically for churches. A Bible study curriculum that yes, addresses the highs and lows of the season, but more importantly draws women in to Scripture themselves. To remind these mamas that their core identity is not in being a mom, but is in Christ.
Of course, one curriculum is not a catch-all solution, but my hope is to provide just one tool you might use to serve these middle-aged women.
Thank you for your calling to serve others in ministry.
I am truly grateful for you.
Ministry Endorsements
"We have used this curriculum at our church. Now with its official publication, I am excited for others to get the opportunity to use it!"
Angela Cirocco
Group Life Minister
Northwest Bible Church
"I could go on and on about how fabulous Open Nest is! Debby has the ability to use Scripture in a way than no matter what your knowledge level of God is, you learn something and apply it. Through God's Word she gives reachable and uplifting answers.
I recommend this study for anyone at any stage of
the 'open' nest."
Natalie Jones
President, Parent Compass
Christian Life and Family Show
"This is a topic that churches need to be addressing. Thank you to
Dr. Debby Smith for providing this Bible Study."
Dr. Michelle Pokorny
Adjunct Professor, DMin Studies
Dallas Theological Seminary
"Although written specifically to women, there is much that men can glean from this wonderful work as well. Open Nest helps all of us navigate the transition from a full nest to an empty nest, and now
to an open nest for ministry."
Clarence Hardison
Founder, Learn My Bible, Inc.
“After working through this Open Nest curriculum, I've witnessed empty nesters move from depression and hopelessness to productivity and joy, ready to serve the church for the rest of their lives.
(With current life spans, that's often thirty years or more.)
I've never seen anything like it!”
Dr. Sue Edwards
Professor Emeritus, DTS
Author Discover Together Bible Study Series
“Open Nest helped me to see myself and my adult children in a whole new way, giving me the ability to embrace this new season with excitement. Through this practical and interactive study based in Scripture, I have a new freedom. Open nest, here we come! No empty nest for me!”
Dr. Anne Meredith Frey
African Strategic Discipleship Movement