A weekend of discovery for a lifetime of love

Jul 22, 2015

KUALA LUMPUR: Marriage Encounter (ME) is one of the most successful and dynamic enrichment experiences in the world today, with more than 40 million couples in over 90 countries having experienced a ME Weekend.

The relationships of 19 couples were enriched when they attended ME157 July 3-5 at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Centre.

Patrick and Babe, from the Church of the Divine Mercy Shah Alam, who have been married for 35 years, found the programme helpful in strengthening their marriage as they believe that couples who have stayed longer in their marriage found it harder to keep afloat.

Tony and Anna, parishioners of St Thomas More, first heard about ME in 2003 but were unable to attend. “We are glad that we made it to the Weekend 12 years later on our 17th Wedding Anniversary. This is truly God’s plan for us,” they said joyously.

Carolyn had been wanting to attend ME the last few years but her spouse, Michael, thought that there was nothing wrong with their marriage, hence there was no reason for them to do so. However, after their experience at ME157, Michael and Carolyn, from the Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe, learnt the importance of communication between spouses for better understanding in their relationship.

At the end of the programme, many participants spoke of being better listeners to their spouses. ME has transformed the way they communicate and deepened their love for each other as it provided a conducive environment for couples to spend time together, away from the distractions and tensions of everyday life, while encouraging them to focus on each other and their relationship.

The presenting team for the ME Weekend were Francis & Angeline, John & Francisca, Joseph & Anita and Fr Ravi Alexander, OFM Cap.

The next ME Weekend will be held August 21-23 at the APC, KL in Mandarin.

The Selangor/Wilayah State Committee of WME would like to extend their thanks and appreciation to all Parish Priests for their assistance in promoting the ME Weekend in their respective parishes. -- By Francis & Angeline Chang