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Has the Marriage Group Been Successful?
In just a few years the parishes that have piloted the program have seen a great increase in the parishioners having a desire to be stewards of time, talent and treasure. Couples feel encouraged and motivated to continue enriching their marriages. What has been the response of the couples attending the marriage group? Most couples comment on how participating in the Covenant of Love has allowed them to understand more clearly the purpose of their vocation of marriage. There have been numerous comments on how couples had no idea that their marriage could be so wonderful. The most encouraging response has been realized through meeting other couples that live through the same situations, and although the participants have been involved in bible studies and enrichment activities individually, this is the first time they have experienced a growth of their spirituality together. What are some of the fruits of the Covenant of Love Marriage Group? Couples say it has transformed their marriages, families and spiritual lives. Husbands and wives both agree that it has given them tools to be able to successfully and joyfully live out their duties and responsibilities as Christian spouses. What has the fellowship been like? It has been inspirational for couples to receive support from other married people in their own faith community. Who governs the Covenant of Love Marriage Ministry? The Alexander House and all of its program/services are guided by a national advisory team, consisting of clergy, theologians and therapists from across the United States. Who developed the material for the program? The program content was developed by Greg and Julie Alexander with the help of those piloting the program at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Centennial, Colorado and St. Vincent de Paul in Austin, Texas and Our Lady Queen of Peace in Montgomery, Alabama. What is the best day of the week to host the Marriage Group? We have found that the best day of the week to host the Marriage Group is typically on the second Friday of the month. However, feel free to use a day that works best for your parish. How long does it take to get the Marriage Group started? The amount of time it takes to get the Marriage Group started varies in every situation. As soon as you can get your leaders and CORE Team in place, you can meet to design a calendar for the year, start promoting and have your first group session shortly after that. It is safe to say that this can be done in a period of 2 to 4 months. What if our Pastor won’t approve the ministry for our parish? The pastor has complete authority and responsibility of his parish. His approval is necessary before The Alexander House will allow any of its programs to be run in a parish. If a pastor won’t approve the ministry, you won’t be able to participate. Are there any other programs of the Covenant of Love Marriage Ministry? Yes, The Alexander House through the Covenant of Love Marriage Ministry plans to launch the Marriage Disciples program in 2009. The Marriage Disciples program will be a parish-based mentor program for couples. |