Finding Support and Strength through the M
arriage has its ups and downs, its storms and havens, and its joys and sorrows. No matter what life throws at your marriage, it is fantastic to know that you are not alone. Thanks to organizations like the Couples Prayer Group, married couples can rest assured that God “has their back.” “In an age where divorce continues to be prevalent, and marriage is regarded by some to be disposable, we need to honor the Sacrament of Marriage,” says Jamie Friye, who attends the Couples Prayer Group with her husband, Saleem Mamdani. “One very effective way to do this is to by getting together to prioritize prayer and fellowship. Meeting as a group also gives us a chance to draw closer to each other and pray for one another, sharing our
difficulties and celebrating our victories with each other.” The Couples Prayer Group usually meets every third Sunday of the month — except for during the summer — following the 11 a.m. Mass. They meet in various locations, such as our parish, members’ homes, or at community locations — such as a restaurant for the Christmas gathering. During their meetings, they share lunch and work through a reflective lesson together based on varying themes. “We are currently working our way through the lessons from Evenings for the Engaged as a refresher course since most of us went through the program prior to marriage,” Jamie says. “We always have a meal, whether carry-in or brought in by a specific
couple (assigned before the meeting), and we sometimes have childcare available. If not, children are still welcome to attend and play as a group. We conclude each meeting with shared prayer, which includes reflecting on the past week, making any special intentions known, and giving thanks for the good things we have received.” The couples enjoy learning from each other and sharing the wisdom they have gleaned. “I really enjoy hearing from the other group members when we do a reflective exercise together,” Jamie says. “Their insights are thought-provoking for me. Reflecting on things alongside one another helps us see that we are not alone in our struggles, and see things from a new perspective from time to time.”
“We are a fun, dynamic group and are welcoming to all. It doesn’t involve a large time commitment, and it is time well spent. Any couple of any age or stage in life, is welcome to join. You do not have to be a member of St. Francis Parish to do so. We have members with infants, members with school-age and adult children, and everything in between.” — Jamie Friye
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