On Friday night, February 19, the Ocean State Church hosted a parenting workshop led by Mark and Laura Ayasse of the Boston congregation. This was our initial rental of the Cape Verdean American Community Development of Rhode Island (CACD) on High Street in Pawtucket.

The facility worked out well, as the campus watched the kids in the downstairs and the parents heard wise teaching upstairs. The night upstairs began with a hilarious game of Family Feud. While one disciple answered every question with “food,” others diversified as they were queried about camping, pet goldfish and more.

Following the fun, the Ayasses shared very openly about the challenges and joys of parenting. Several thought-provoking lines were delivered like, “It takes a village to raise you,” “Watch your tone and temper,” and “Your kids need to know they are a priority.” A question and answer period brought out more specific thoughts for some families. We concluded the evening with discipling groups, where we all discussed with each other the issues we are facing as parents.

All combined, over 50 showed up for this first parenting workshop in our church. The fellowship, bonding and words were powerful. In addition to Mark and Laura, we want to thank our college-age crowd for hanging with our children and making their time memorable as well.