“IT IS the most dynamic and life changing thing we’ve done in our entire marriage…”, was the feedback that was given by a schoolteacher, married for seven years, after attending a similiar event, previously.
“I thought we had the perfect marriage – it’s even better now…”, said a building contractor of fifteen years after another, such event.
JUST RECENTLY I attended a meeting at the LOVE SOUTHEND offices at Clarence Road Baptist Church. Also present were Phil Andrews, Minister at Avenue Baptist Church, and Wendy Thomas of the local Transformation Prayer Gatherings, among others. We met with Mark Daniels of Family Life, a vital part of Agape Ministries.
At the meeting, Mark outlined the plans for such an event, this Weekend To Remember, in Southend on 8th-9th October, 2005*. He kindly explained that it was something for all couples, and not just for those Christian couples with many years of married life behind them – it’s for couples contemplating marriage, for newly weds, for marriages where one partner is a Christian and the other not. Because of the potential make-up of those attending such an event, the gospel message is therefore clearly presented, over the course of the weekend.
But it’s more than just an evangelistic witness…
“THIS WAS a turning point in our marriage. This is a brand new start and a new commitment to each other and our marriage and family…”, said a lady who is a housewife, after another similiar event in a different area.
Mark went on to describe how the event will feature speakers with useful insights and personal stories on the subject of marriage; it will include the exploration of Biblical principles and practical suggestions; there will hopefully be a relaxing atmosphere and an entertaining style to the proceedings; application exercises between couples (no group exercises) and halfway through the event…Saturday Night Dinner.
A bit like the “away day” on the Alpha Course, the Saturday Night Dinner will be an integral part of the weekend*, although here, couples will be required to book a special ‘meal for two’, at a local restaurant in advance. Jim Hamilton, Minister at Shoebury Baptist Church, was also at the meeting, and he reminded Mark of such a weekend being held at Shoebury a few years ago.
JIM MENTIONED the Saturday Night Dinner that he and his wife enjoyed, back then. Thinking that other couples on the course would go for a meal in restuarants in Shoebury, they decided instead, to book a table at Farthing’s restaurant, in Southchurch. This way, they wouldn’t bump into any of the other particpants, and would have a bit more privacy to do the learning task required of all of them, that night.
Only, the other couples were all on the same wavelength. Imagine the surprise of the staff when the place became full of couples, all of whom knew each other; all of whom were carrying a sealed pink envelope!
“I wish we’d had this opportunity 30 years ago. My husband and I are sending our children to the next weekend as a gift to them, for their future…”, remarked one senior executive.
A WEEKEND TO REMEMBER! takes place at Crowstone St. George’s URC in Crowstone Road, Westcliff, Southend-on-Sea, on 8th-9th October*, starting at 9.30am on the Saturday. This is a national event and as participants are expected from different counties, you are advised to book as soon as possible, if you’re interested. The cost is £35 and more information can be obtained from Wendy Thomas at Love Southend, or from Family Life on 0121 765 4404 or at info@familylife.uk.com
*PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS EVENT IS TAKING PLACE ON 8-9th OCTOBER and not when it has been accidently quoted, by our outside facilitators on the leaflets!
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