A program of marriage enrichment

By Fr. Ambrose Pereira and Lucy Napitalai

Gabutu (Port Moresby), PNG, 26 July 2023 -- A Marriage Enrichment session, held at Don Bosco Technical School (DBTS), Gabutu, on 24 July 2023, brought together 21 couples from Gabutu, Vabukori, Sabama, Serokone and Boroko.

The couples were welcomed to a warm and cosy atmosphere that was romantic with lights and flowers. It set the mood for the program.

The session entitled, ‘Strengthening Connection’ was based on the Marriage Course by Nicky and Sila Lee. Using the analogy of a vine in a winery that requires - Adjusting, pruning, supporting, and renewing – the couples were led into moments of reflection and sharing with each other. Video clippings of couples, and inputs by Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb gave the couples discussion pointers. The couples shared on their first encounter with each other, their friendship, communication, physical relationship, future together and their weekly special moments together.

Marriage is the closest possible relationship of intimacy and interdependence. This requires working at one’s marriage if the couple is to remain connected. The session aimed to equip couples with tools to build a healthy marriage and to strengthen or restore the connection between the couple. It was an opportunity to engage with each other, find out more about the other and continue the journey of discovery, thus staying connected. Sr. Mini Joseph MSMHC and Sr. Kanchan Toppo MSMHC were present to assist anyone in need.

Several couples were delighted with the program and expressed their gratitude. “We needed it as a couple”, said one couple.

“It has been a gift to us, as just a month ago we celebrated the Sacrament of Marriage”, said Joanna and Paul Maino.

“As couples, we cannot claim to know each other and were happy to attend the program for our own enrichment and encouragement”, said Mr. Paul Harricknen, who has been married for 37 years.

The program was an initiative of Fr. Ambrose Pereira, SDB, Spiritual Moderator of DBTS and Parish Priest of MOHC, Sabama who saw the need for enrichment amongst couples and the Sacrament of Marriage in the Mary Help of Christians parish, Don Bosco Technical School and in our communities. Other sessions are planned.

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