FDTS 2024
Base Directors: Brian & Sue McCoy
FDTS: Stories 2022
FDTS: Stories 2021
FDTS 2024 Classroom - Missionary Dan Baumann teaching
FDTS - 2026
April 2Nd - August 21ST
Just as Jesus walked with His disciples, we are called to walk with others. Our community is a vital part of discipleship, a place where you'll learn from and grow alongside brothers and sisters from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Our discipleship approach is designed to be transformative. Through a combination of biblical teaching, family mentoring, and small group sharing, we provide a safe space to engage with God's Word and apply it to your life. Over five months, you will experience the Lord's power as He heals, prunes, and restores your family for a life of purpose and fruitfulness.
By living in a tiny home, the FDTS offers a chance to simplify your life and focus on Jesus. Each family has a private cabin with a queen bed and a loft for children. We provide complete bedding, so you only need to bring towels and toiletries. Shared bathrooms are located nearby, and each cabin has a "camping-style toilet" for convenience at night.
Lecture Phase
April 2 — June 19, 2026
Rancho Abierto’s bilingual (English and Spanish) FDTS is a transformative journey that goes beyond academics to cultivate a deeper relationship with God. Through engaging curriculum and community living, you will discover His character, experience His love, and learn to share it with others. Over eleven weeks, a new teacher and topic will guide you to encounter God's heart in a fresh way each week.
Children are fully integrated into the experience with age-appropriate sessions. They will discover their role in God's mission and develop a closer relationship with Him. Through shared worship, family time, and intercessory prayer, our community fosters a dynamic environment that supports your family's spiritual growth.
Outreach and debriefing
June 22 — Aug 21, 2026
The FDTS at Rancho Abierto isn't just about learning—it's about doing. After the lecture phase, you'll go on an outreach designed to help every family member discover their unique gifts and serve others. This hands-on experience is a crucial part of the program, equipping you to share your faith effectively.
The debriefing week is a vital time for reflection. We'll help your family process your outreach experiences, connect them to the teachings, and consider how to continue living a life of mission long after you graduate.
SCHEDULE
Our weekly schedule runs Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for both adults and children.
From 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. each day, one parent will be on "Work Duty" to help serve the community, while the other parent has time with the kids or can assist with homeschooling. Every Wednesday evening, we have an all-base campfire for family worship and teaching. The rest of your evenings are free.
Weekends are generally unscheduled, with the exception of meal times. This is a time for your family to rest or explore. About an hour away, you'll find stores like Costco, Walmart, and Home Depot, along with restaurants and, of course, tacos! We also plan a fun monthly outing, like a trip to the beach. You can borrow ranch vehicles for personal use on weekends, but we ask families to cover their own gas. On Sundays, you can choose to attend one of the nearby Spanish-speaking or bilingual churches.
Tuition FEES
Our tuition fees are designed to make our program accessible to families from diverse nations. Please click the link below to find the pricing for the lecture phase based on your nation's economic category (A, B, or C).
The separate eight-week outreach phase costs between $3,500 and $4,500 per adult, with the final price determined by the outreach location. We strive to keep costs for children lower by reducing expenses for accommodations and meals.