As we enter into 2021 A.D. (Anno Domini) not CE (common era), we as marriage preparation ministers are facing challenges that we never thought we would. Among them are: couples deciding on a civil marriage instead of a Sacramental marriage, couples putting off a church wedding indefinitely, meeting safely to properly prepare couples who are going ahead with a church wedding, & the list goes on. So, are we to just "throw in the towel" and hide away until all this passes over? Nay I say! There is hope ahead! Just to let you know what we are seeing here at the Diocese......the number of couples registering for the one day retreat is increasing, calls from couples/parishes concerning couples inquiring about Sacramental marriage are also increasing, & in our interaction with couples attending the retreats, a positive & upbeat outlook has replaced one of fear and anxiety. So "chin up" as it were, & keep doing what you are doing because you are making a difference!
