The Cana Ministry of The Lords Flock UAE Chapter joined “The Beloved” program last June 2023. “The Beloved” is a 2-part program by the Augustine Institute (USA) for married couples. It seeks to deepen their love and have a better understanding of their roles in marriage. It is a Catholic program to help them rediscover their vital importance to society.
“The Beloved” Part 1 Series is composed of six wonderful topics, entitled: Does Marriage Matter, Entering the Story of Marriage, Love Revealed, Total Gift of Self, A Sacramental Bond, and lastly Real Challenges, Real Love.
The sessions were mostly done through Zoom meetings every Thursday between 9:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The activity consists of a 30-minute video followed by an engaging Q&A. The couples discussed their relationship and how to become better partners. Lastly, they had a group activity wherein the couples shared their experiences and learned from each other. Every session gave an opportunity for all the couples to have lively discussions on their life experiences and they learned from one another.
The Part 1 series was a fun-filled program for the couples. It was a breather for the couples, who for a long time, did not reflect on their relationship. They rediscovered the vows they made during their wedding.
Here are some excerpts from what the couples experienced about the program:
“We are thankful for the Beloved… we are reminded of our marriage vows, appreciate each other more, and we can discuss sensitive topics – thanks to the couple discussion questions!” Dexter & Janice
“Beloved is very helpful for married couples like us to overcome challenges; it reminded us na mas maging matatag lalo na sa panahong pasuko na ang isa.” Arjay & Leslie
“We discussed managing kids, raising them in a way they will see us as their example… we hope for more sessions like this.” Levelyn & Jasmine
“We learned that marriage is a vocation to holiness, and a commitment to walk together, learn to appreciate each other, keep your relationship and your family intact.” John and Bema
“Kahit matagal na kaming kasal, may mga bagay na di pa namin alam bilang mag-asawa at isang pamilya.” Janette & Marvin
“We have been married for 21 years…we learned that our marriage must align with God; it is not just a sacrament but a sacrifice. It is a way of lifting each other and supporting each other.” Jessie & Agnes
“We learned that couples should mirror their love like Christ who loves His Church.” Riemar & Queenie
“In every session, we were given examples on how to handle difficult situations in marriage and which we should cherish and prioritize.” Ronald & Magnolia
“We are very grateful for the session since we learned the deeper meaning of marriage and how to strengthen the ties between wife and husband.” Edmon and Grace
“We learned a lot of things like appreciating the little things each of us contributes to marriage; we learned from other couples’ experiences; it strengthens our relationship as a couple.” Andrew & Maria
“Kung dumating kayo sa pagtatalo, huwag dapat pairalin ang nasa ulo mo; bagkus alalahanin mo ang laman ng puso mo ay ang taong pinakasalan mo.” Arnel & May-ann
Truly, all the couples must have time to reflect on their marriage and remember the vows they promised on the altar with God. TRULY GOD IS PRESENT IN EVERY MARRIAGE.
TO GOD BE THE GLORY!
Written by: Bro. Rem Sagarino (Scribes Ministry)
