waiting
for
children

 

About

Waiting for children is a course for couples facing fertility issues. We recognise that this can be a very lonely and confusing time. Through the course, we hope to offer encouragement and support, whilst acknowledging that each couple’s story is unique. Over the five weeks we will cover the following topics:

  • Impact on couples

  • Dealing with loss and telling others

  • Adoption

  • Fertility treatment

  • Living fruitfully

 

What couples have said about the course

“It was really helpful; The couple who shared their story were brilliant. We appreciated the way they shared their faith as well as their prayer and thoughtfulness about the whole decision making process”

“Thought provoking. The couples addressed difficult topics sensitively and answered some very challenging questions. Very informative”

“We were impressed and moved by the speakers and really inspired. It was comforting to hear their stories, encouragement and hope for the future”

 

How does the course work online?

The course will be hosted live over Zoom by Jo Roper, Ike Cooke and Alexia Hewson who will introduce the session and interview a series of couples they have invited on their experience of fertility issues. Although all are welcome, we recommend that couples attend the course together as there will be time, during the sessions, when they will be encouraged to talk between themselves about certain issues. These issues will never be subject to group discussion and you will not need to share anything with anyone else. There will be opportunity to connect with others if desired.

2023

St. Andrew’s Church in Oxford are running a similar course in the Spring Term.

HTB Course Dates

Autumn 2023 - dates tbc.

Duration

5 Weeks

LED BY:

Jo Roper, Alexia Hewson and Ike Cooke

Cost

Free

Location

Run remotely via an online platform

 

About your hosts

Jo is an obstetric and gynaecology doctor who is married to Mark Roper, a curate at HTB. They attend HTB Onslow Square. Jo’s parents had a long wait for children and this is part of the reason this issue has been laid on her heart. Although it has not been a personal issue she has faced, she has been alongside many of her close friends in the fertility journey.

Alexia worked as a solicitor but is currently taking a career break. She lives in Surrey with her husband and two children. They attend Holy Trinity Church. After a long wait for her children, and as a previous attendee of this course during her own fertility treatment, she is passionate about this issue and this course reaching those going through a similar experience.

Ike is the founder of a home technology startup and lives in north London with her husband Kieran and one year old son. They attend HTB Courtfield Gardens and lead a connect group for young parents. Having previously attended the Waiting for Children course, Ike found support and encouragement on her personal journey and is passionate about supporting other couples who are waiting for children.

 

What happens when I sign up for a course?

We will send you (prior to the course start date):

  • details of how to join the Zoom call online for each live session

  • a PDF copy of the course handbook

Your booking can be cancelled at any time, please contact us to do so.
If you have any questions prior to the course, please contact courses@htb.org.