Registration Cost: $25 per Couple
Child Care: $25 per Family
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Common Marital Challenges and How to Navigate Them
Presented by Allerica Carr
Many of us experience the highs of love and the lows of life’s unexpected twists. From marital disagreements to blended families, from moments of intimacy to facing the complex dynamics with in-laws, many of these aspects of life are challenges that come with joining two distinct lives together. These obstacles can often leave us feeling misunderstood, alone, or even hopeless. But happy couples have conflicts. This doesn’t mean the love is gone; it simply means that growth is necessary.
I’ve learned that the real key to overcoming these challenges is understanding your cycle—the patterns of behavior and communication that emerge in your relationship. How do you and your partner interact during moments of tension? It’s through this process of uncovering the cycle and working together to change it that a deeper, more meaningful connection is formed. Relationships are not static; they evolve with time, and the goal isn’t perfection but understanding.
Together, let’s discuss some common marital challenges, why some of these challenges arise, and how to navigate them as a couple.
Marriage as a Spiritual Practice – How Funny Is That?
Presented by Steve and Vera Dyck
When we are committed to our own spiritual and emotional growth, and in a relationship that is safe and respectful enough, marriage can be a training ground, a playground, and a path to heaven. With a combination of attempted comedy and storytelling, sharing ideas about what has been helpful for them, and facilitated experiential exercises, Vera and Steve will plumb the wisdom in the room, leading the community gathered in a workshop of learning with and from each other.
Singles, separated/divorced, and never-married folks will be welcomed and included.
Introduction to the work of John and Julie Gottman
Presented by Michael and Gwenda Cowley
While working on a Master of Marriage and Family Degree at Ottawa University in 2005, Michael discovered the work of the Gottmans, with actual empirical evidence to support what makes marriages succeed or fail. So began a study of Emotional Intelligence, and John Gottman’s work “The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work”.
In this session couples will be introduced to the Principles and to other of Gottman’s work that pertains especially to marriage. All relationships can benefit from the concepts. There will be some time for interaction and discussion. Hopefully, couples will find some tools, but also share some laughs and benefit from the experiences of those in the room.