FOLLOW US
Madrid Marriage & Family Forum: Marriage Preparation
Written by Mercedes Gonzalez, Coordinator, Marriage & Family Initiative, UPF-Spain
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Madrid, Spain - These days many families and young people take a vacation to celebrate Easter Sunday. When I invited people to this event many told me: “I’m sorry, but I’m going on vacation.” Nevertheless, with faith and enthusiasm we prepared the program.
We had 18 participants, and even though the group was small, it was clear that we had a great affinity in values. Five Ambassadors for Peace attended, and several guests brought friends with them. One woman was feeling ill but decided to come with her husband rather than miss this opportunity; her loyalty to the initiative is remarkable.
I gave a lecture on Successful Marriage Preparation. The general response of the audience was that they welcomed the concepts. A high percentage of the participants were Catholics and could resonate with concepts such as the importance of sexual purity before marriage. The discussion was deep and constructive as we explored concepts such as engaged couples centering their relationship on God, making a solid foundation for their marriage and family.
Afterwards, the Family Peace Council met, opening with an invocation so that the time together could be guided from above. The 12 people in attendance expressed their ideas and input in the following points:
◘ How to help young couples develop God-centered values and a sense of responsibility during their engagement period
◘ How to help married couples have a more stable marriage
◘ How to unite around a common belief in God as the protector of families
It was a magnificent day filed with inspiration, good atmosphere, and growth in knowledge and spirit. This was a responsive group of people who care about others and want to do something for a better society and world.
If you find this page helpful and informative please consider making donation. Your donation will help Universal Peace Federation (UPF) provide new and improved reports, analysis and publications to you and everyone around the world.
UPF is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization and all donations are tax deductible in the United States. Receipts are automatically provided for donations of or above $250.00.
|
Donate to the Universal Peace Federation: Your donation to support the general programs of UPF. |
Donate to the Religious Youth Service (RYS): Your donation will be used for service projects around the world. |
Donate to UPF's Africa Projects: Your donation will be used for projects in Africa. |