24 October 2016 | Nicosia, Cyprus [Marica Mirilov]
The first weekend in October saw twenty couples in Nicosia, Cyprus benefiting from a free, unforgettable three-day marriage enrichment programme. It was hosted by the local Seventh-day Adventist church.
The engaging seminars were presented by experienced and inspirational family trainers Karen Holford, Trans-European Family Ministries director and the author of several books in the field; and her husband, Pastor Bernie Holford. Seminars covered reflected on the Seasons of Marriage, Building Healthy Relationships, Creative Conflicts, and Fun and Friendship in Marriage.
Silvana and Andrew de Jesus, one of the youngest attendee couples found encouragement in realising that the disillusionment stage in marriage is only a phase that can be passed through, moving to more exciting stages of discovery and depth in marital relationship.
The most popular practical tip of the programme was 10 x 1 minute/per day connecting. The couples were challenged to make lists of 10 creative ways to consciously connect with their spouses each day. Such a practical suggestion was fully embraced by the couples since it fits in with the stressful and time limited modern lifestyle. Once the participants started putting down ideas such as a massage, telling a joke, sending a love message, taking a selfie together, or simply holding hands, they realised that this is not an obligation but rather a fun way for people who love each other to connect.
Cyprus reflects the rest of Europe with its decreasing marriage rate and an increasing number of divorces. Dr Branislav Mirilov, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Cyprus, expressed the need for regular programmes such as this. “Healthy marital relationships equal loving families, and lead to a more stable society. The church must play a significant role in nourishing relationships. It is far more than just performing marriage ceremonies.” [tedNEWS]
tedNEWS Staff: Victor Hulbert, director; Esti Pujic, editor
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