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Preparation for Marriage |
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Purpose of the Program The most significant decision any of us ever makes is the choice of a life-partner. Regrettably, dating practices in our society often make this choice more complicated and difficult. Couples often are so excited about discovering what they have in common that they sometimes overlook the ways in which they are different. While in the beginning those differences are often what attract us to the other person, those same differences, later, can become points of conflict and misunderstanding. |
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It is much easier to prepare for a successful wedding than for a successful marriage. While a wedding involves concrete tasks that need to be completed, a successful marriage requires time to share feelings—both positive and negative. This workshop is designed to provide structure for engaged couples to look at their relationship—to articulate its strengths and pinpoint the areas of potential difficulties. In this workshop, couples will explore the complexities of marriage—looking at what each individual brings to the marriage and what each is expecting of it. What is covered? Topics covered in the workshop include: · The importance of differences · Communication Skills: The task of understanding differences · Conflict Resolution: The art of negotiating and compromising differences · Commitment:: The achievement of intimacy in spite of differences · Family of Origin: Different models of marriage · Realistic Expectation Prepare/Enrich Testing The Prepare/Enrich test is given to each partner individually. Based on your responses, the computerized report identifies areas of strength and areas of growth as a couple. It summarizes how each of you views your relationship. You will have the opportunity as a couple to meet in a private session with your workshop leader to interpret the report in detail after the completion of the workshop, if you wish. Workshop Format The workshop will include presentations by the workshop leader, videos, small group and large group discussions, couple sharing and the testing. Everyone will be encouraged to share in the group. No doubt the workshop will become a springboard for further conversations between you and your partner. Both partners are expected to attend all sessions. The program is meant to supplement, not replace, the counseling received from your pastor before marriage. Test results can be made available to your pastor with your written consent. COST: $150.00 PER COUPLE 1. Week-End Workshops: Three week-end workshops are held in February, April and May at different locations. These involve Saturday daytime hours (9a.m. – 3 p.m.) 2. Private Sessions: If you are unable to attend any of the listed workshop series, private sessions can be arranged for you as a couple. Call the SCC office to learn more about this format. The cost for the private sessions $230.00. Date: February 23, 2008 Location: Birmingham First United Methodist Church 1589 West Maple Road Birmingham
Date: April 19, 2008 Location: Nardin Park United Methodist Church 29887 W. 11 Mile Rd. Farmington Hills
Date: June 7, 2008 Location: Northville United Methodist Church 777 W. 8 Mile Rd. Northville
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