The sixth annual Adventist Family Conference was held at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University, July 21–25. The theme for this year's event was "Intimate Partners in Marriage." Each year the North American Division family ministries leadership, in cooperation with the Adventist Association of Family Life Professionals and Andrews University, provide continuing education unit (CEU) credits and professional certification for lay leaders, pastors, counselors, therapists, social workers, graduate students, administrators, and other members of the community. Presentations are offered in both English and Spanish.

The academic program for graduate certification in family life education prepares professionals to work in church, community, and school settings to strengthen families through group teaching strategies that use redemptive processes and a focus on family strengths. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to apply for certification by the National Council on Family Relations. CEU credits are also available through Griggs University.

This year's modules included: "Marriage Strengthening," "Communication," "Effective Family Ministries in the Local Church," "Anger and Conflict Resolution," and "Your Family as an Evangelistic Center." The featured speaker was Daniel Trathen, an adjunct professor at Denver Theological Seminary and a clinical member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.

Those interested may begin planning for the seventh annual Adventist Family Conference, July 21–24, 2005, where Barry C. Black, 62nd Chaplain of the United States Senate, will be the featured speaker. Chaplain Black will present "The Witness of Family." For registration forms, visit www.adventistfamilyministries.org.

Gary Burns, Lake Union Herald editor