The Marriage Course

For those of you who have heard about Alpha, you may not know that the church behind it, Holy Trinity Brompton, have another course specifically tailored at couples called 'The Marriage Course'.

Written by Nicky and Sila Lee, who are also authors of 'The Marriage Book' {which I have read and will review in another post}, the 7 week course is suitable for all age groups, from those preparing for marriage {moi}, those going through a bit of a rocky time and also those who want to enrich their current experience of married life.

The format of each event usually goes like this:

Dinner: Each evening starts at 7pm with a catered dinner meal. Over dinner there’s an opportunity to spend time together as a couple or with other couples if you desire (if you are coming with friends). The mood for the evening is "A Dinner Date" (dress is casual, however!).

Talk: You will then view a talk on a specific topic given by Nicky and Sila Lee on video. Topics include:

• Building Strong Foundations
• The Art of Communication
• Resolving Conflict
• The Power of Forgiveness
• Parents and In-Laws

All chosen because they are foundational to a healthy marriage.

Discussion: During the talk there are exercises for you to do together as a couple. Every effort is made to make sure your conversations aren’t being overheard and music is played in the background. During the longest exercise you are served coffee or tea and cake. The exercises come from a workbook each person will receive on the first night.

Homework: At the end of each session you will be given some homework to do together before the next session. It isn’t looked at by anyone else and is just for your own benefit to help you continue your discussion at home.  The evening ends around 9:15pm.

Each event is set up, so that couples can have an intimate environment {candle lit dinner for two}, giving them the opportunity to talk about their relationship in private. Nicky and Sila’s approach is very down to earth with lots of practical ideas drawn from their own 25 year marriage.

For the past few weeks they have been showing The Marriage Course on UCB and have now started showing it on GOD Channel. Mr E and I have been watching it,  doing our own mini marriage course and the great thing about Sky+ is that you can record it and watch at your convenience. Also being able to rewind and pause where needs be, affords you the time to discuss certain issues and how they relate to the relationship.

We can both confidently say that we have taken away a lot from the course so far and would encourage others to take part, even if it is just watching the programme on TV. For those of you who want to join in on the marriage course fun, check it out the GOD channel {Sky viewers 580}, Wednesdays at 9pm or in the flesh at a place near you!