WHAT IS MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT RETREAT (MER)?
Marriage Enrichment Retreat (MER) is a two day weekend activity for couples to discover more intimately the meaning of marriage vocation within the context of God’s plan. The weekend retreat provides time to listen to Christian talks, for couple discussion and most especially prayer and meditation.
STRUCTURE, DYNAMICS AND ELEMENTS
1. PRAYER
Being a retreat, the schedule provides adequate time for both common and personal prayer. The retreat is structured in such a way that every activity is centered on Christ. Prayer is an effective way of Discovering God’s call with faith and humility.
2. TALKS
The retreat provides a series of seven (7) talks focused on examining important areas of Christian marriage and family life. The talks will not only present teachings from the Bible, but practical guidelines will be provided by Couples speakers.
3. COUPLE DISCUSSION
After each talk is presented, the husband and wife will meet exclusively with one another to discuss and pray about specific aspects of their marriage and family life they need to work on.
4. ACTION PLANNING
Towards the end of the retreat, the husband and wife will meet exclusively with one another to discuss and pray about specific aspects of their marriage and family life they need to work on.
5. FELLOWSHIP
As part of enhancing the relationship of participating couples and promoting wholesome and healthy entertainment, the retreat provides couples time for interaction as well as program where all couples take part actively.
MER I
The Marriage Enrichment Retreat (MER) I is part of the first year formation program in CFC. It is usually given to all couples six (6) months after completion of Couples for Christ Christian Life Program (CLP). All couple members are expected to take the MER. MER I helps couples to understand and appreciate God’s plan for marriage and family life, encourage them to work together to fulfill God’s plan; discuss and identify areas where they can grow in their relationship and pray together for God's guidance and protection for their family.
MER II
The Marriage Enrichment Retreat (MER) II is a follow-up retreat to those who already attended MER I. It helps couples to further discover the meaning of marriage and how to further strengthen their relationship and family life.
CFC Guam has completed quite a number MERs in the past. In line with CFC Formation Programmes, these seminars are aimed in strengthening marriages and building homes for God through better appreciation and understanding of God's plan for marriage and family life. Their rich experiences in marriage life and long involvement in CFC community made the retreats very productive and enriching for both participants and service team members alike.
Here are some of the highlights of the recently concluded Marriage Enrichment Retreats that have touched and changed the lives of our brothers and sisters as couples.
