In a world of increasing divorce rates, rising same-sex marriages and a growing culture of cohabitation, it is evident that the sacrament of marriage is under attack. From the very beginning of creation until now, Satan has been tirelessly working to destroy families and marriages. This is why we must strengthen the relationship of husbands and wives because when we do that, we also get to protect the domestic church.
To answer this call, CFCA South Australia conducted a two-day weekend Marriage Enrichment Retreat (MER 1 & 2) on March 15 and 16 at the Holy Family Mass Centre Parafield Gardens. This gave the participating couples time to listen to Christian talks, for couple discussion and most especially, prayer and meditation.
This retreat was one of the biggest we've ever had with thirteen couples -- ten couples for MER 1 and three couples for MER 2. On the last day of the retreat, the couple-participants also got to renew their marriage vows before the parishioners of the Holy Family Parish during the Holy Mass celebrated by Father Francis Trinh Van Phat.
It was a hectic and full-on schedule but seeing the smiles and the love on the couples' faces brought so much joy and fulfillment in the hearts of the service team. Here are some of the feedback from the participants:
"This is a very great event! For us as a young married couple, it's a privilege to get a deeper connection with each other and especially with God."
"This has been such a great experience."
"There's so much to take away from this weekend and this is just the start of our journey. It's been a very humbling journey for us to become a part of Couples for Christ and feel that we are with like-minded people that share the same family values and Christian values."
"It's great reliving the time when we were just dating and discussing/ planning for our life. It was a very great experience for us."
"We've been through other similar journeys yet this crossroad has taught us so much more. It's a very special retreat for us as a couple."
"It is a humbling experience. My love for God has grown even more and my love for my husband as well. What I learned this weekend is comparing the mass to the church at home, that is truly a blessing."
"There's a lot of wisdom in these two days. I'm looking to have MER 3 next week!"
"The last two days were very empowering, enriching and uplifting to know that God is always there."
Of course, the success of the recently concluded MER would not be possible without the support of the parish and the CFCA community who generously shared their time and talents to carry out God's work. Thank you everyone for your selfless service! To God be the glory!
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