"Families are under attack. Increased divorce rates, blended households, single parents, and a strong undercurrent of violence pull and tug at the family. To survive the 21st century, traditional family values must resurface. Healthy families create healthy churches and communities,” said Adolphus Garnett, Greater Los Angeles African-American Region (GLAR) director. “Our goal is to provide services to families in need.”

The region introduced the My Family Matters comprehensive initiative during the 31st annual convocation held in Pasadena. Powerful messages by keynote speaker Emil D. Peeler, D.Min., focused on “Cleaning House” and “Family Dreams in a Pit Stop.” Each family attending the convocation received a free book, Lord, Save My Family, by Richard O’Ffill.

Garnett explained, “My Family Matters is designed to promote strong, healthy families by providing professional family therapy and counseling resources through a centralized database. Families needing financial subsidy may apply." In addition, free classes on building healthy family relationships are held each quarter.

In a video introducing the Family Matters approach, Yvonne B. Burke, supervisor, Second District, Los Angeles County, conveyed her support for rebuilding family traditions. “We have a tremendous responsibility to serve our community,” said Burke. “We work with many faith-based communities to provide family preservation programs.”

Following the convocation, an intensive week of free family workshops was held nightly at Los Angeles Adventist Academy. Professionals including Curtis Fox, Ph.D., M.F.T.; Pattie Herring Ph.D.; Linda Tigner Weekes, M.D.; Yolanda Cross, M.S.W.; Cliff and Freddie Harris, Drug Alternative Program directors; Zephon Lister, M.A.; and Claudia Guilluame, M.A., presented vital information on health, drugs, literacy, effects of hip-hop music and various issues affecting families today.

To obtain copies of Convocation 2005 “My Family Matters” featuring Dr. Emil Peeler, visit website www.CrossTalk-Productions.com or call 1-866-57-VIDEO.

Upcoming “My Family Matters” workshops will be held on Sunday, Sept. 18, starting at 10 a.m. at the University Church in Los Angeles. Topics will include “Building Healthy Self Esteem,” by Michael Morgan, Ph.D.; “Parenting in the 21 st Century,” by Elizabeth B. Watson, Ph.D.; and “Children Need Guidance,” by Cynthia Powell, M.A., Ph.D. For more information, contact GLAR at 818-546-8443.