Coming Home to a Better Marriage
Understanding & Moving Through Conflict with Communication that Connects
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries and the Family Wellness Ministry will offer a new three-part series for married and engaged couples this spring.
“Coming Home to a Better Marriage” will begin on Thursday, March 11, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. PST, and will continue with session two on Thursday, April 8, and the final session on Thursday, May 13.
This series will integrate cutting edge marriage research with the cutting edge of the Word of God. Reflections from the Parable of the Prodigal Son will allow participants to see how the Journey of Marriage fits beautifully into the Lenten Journey. The theme of “coming home” will guide couples toward the authentic love of God, the authentic self, and the authentic marriage that connects from the heart.
“This program is another example of how the Metropolis of San Francisco is committed to reaching out to our young couples to strengthen them in their relationships, and help them keep their lives centered on the Lord,” remarked His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos. “As we prepare to journey through Great Lent, these couples will also have the opportunity to embark on their personal journey and walk with Jesus Christ on His journey to the Cross and the celebration of His Resurrection.”
Participation is free, however registration is required to receive the secure Zoom link. Register online today! Visit either the Family Wellness Ministry of the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries websites for more information.
Watch this video for a sneak peak of this new program!
PART 1 – Thursday, March 11, 2021
“How Couples stay Connected”
We all are created for connection, nonetheless our current communication patterns often lead us into conflict and disconnection. Insights into our ‘attachment styles’ and authentic connection with God will be offered to help us find our path ‘back home’ to our own heart and meaningful connection in our marriage.
Presenters:
Rev. Father Vasili Hillhouse, M.Div, M.A Marriage Studies
George Papageorge LMFT, M.A., Metropolis Family Wellness Ministry Program Director
PART 2: April 8, 2021- “One Fight, Two Winners”
Many avoid conflict believing it leads to negative results. Others engage at resolving conflict only to get angry, frustrated, feeling rejected and criticized. Proverbs 12:18 tells us that reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. “One Fight, Two Winners” invites us to respond to conflict with wisdom as we discover that conflict done well offers opportunities for true intimacy, understanding, and connection.
Presenter:
Rev. Father Tom Tsagalakis, M.Div., M.S., LMFT
PART 3: May 13, 2021 “Stop the Insanity!” (Perspective Taking & Practical Tips)
Attempting to resolve conflict using the same methods while looking for a different outcome is a classic example for the definition of insanity. In part 3 of this series you will learn some practical tips on how to engage conflict in different, and healthy ways, as well as learn how perspective taking can be the catalyst in helping you create deeper connections and positive changes in your marriage.
Presenter:
Rev. Father Timothy Pavlatos, M.Div., M.S., LMFT, CCTP
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