The bi-lingual (Spanish/English) Family Discipleship Training School (FDTS) at Rancho Abierto is not merely academic, it is a school of the heart, intended to help students know God on a personal level. The FDTS curriculum is designed to familiarize students with the Biblical perspective on God’s character, nature, and His desire to lovingly relate with every human. The school also includes practical elements that will help students connect with God individually and explain to non-believers how to do the same. During the eleven-week Family Discipleship Training School (FDTS) lecture phase, couples experience the heart of God by living in community with other families. They learn from seasoned missionaries and international teachers and engage in worship and intercession for the nations.

The school-aged children learn similar topics in the Foundation School as their parents do in their class sessions. The children also participate in their own times of intercession and worship and gain an understanding of their role in the family and in the Great Commission, all the while learning to hear and obey God’s voice. The goal is to equip the whole family for ministry and to help each family member grow closer to God through learning about Him in the classroom and practicing their skills on outreaches in the local communities in Mexico. At various times throughout the week, the families have the opportunity to worship together, have family time, and engage in interactive intercession. 

During the one-week debriefing portion of the Family DTS, students review their experiences during the field assignment, what they learned during the lecture phase, and process how they can apply the lessons of DTS to their lifestyles after graduation. Our hope is that the families gain a vision and God's heart for the nations and will look for ways for their families to continue their involvement in missions as a lifestyle.