ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
Married and engaged couples looking to strengthen their relationships will have the opportunity to learn more about successful marital unions at "Boundaries in Mar-riage," an eight-week seminar offered through the Chapel beginning Feb. 3.
Some couples might feel uncomfortable or anxious about getting outside help. "Even the so called 'experts' in the field of marriage and family have probably utilized a counselor or class such as this to make their marriage strong," said Capt. (Chap.) Brandon Parker, 316th Wing protestant chaplain. "I myself have done this and there shouldn't be any shame in recognizing that we do not have all of the answers, and perhaps we need help. We do not have a hard-wired manual that comes with our birth into the world, as it comes to relationships; we write these manuals as we go."
Chaplain Parker said the Boundaries class is ideal for newlyweds and engaged couples, but is also beneficial for those who have been married for several years. "A recent survey by George Barna states that five out of 10 marriages end in divorce, but out of that 50 percent, only about 20 percent say that they have a good and intimate relationship with their spouse," said Chaplain Parker. Singles are also invited to attend the workshops. "The class will benefit those wanting to get a jump start on educating themselves concerning marriage, as well," said Chaplain Parker.
The class curriculum, co-authored by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend, focuses on working out conflict, establishing healthy communication, problem solving and dealing with the struggle for differing needs. "Boundaries in Marriage will show couples why boundaries are so important for a thriving productive marriage, how values form the structure of a marriage, how to protect a marriage from intruders, whether parents, other people, affairs, or personal idols, why each partner needs to establish personal boundaries and how to go about it, and how to work with a spouse who understands values and boundaries and how to work with one who doesn't," said Chaplain Parker.
Marriage can be a tough transition for couples. "In the process of knitting two souls to-gether, it's easy to tear the fabric," explained Chaplain Parker.
Chaplain Parker said that at the end of the eight-week seminar, couples will have gained a greater sense of self and their marital environment. "I hope they will gain new insight into themselves, their spouse, and tools necessary for making a successful marriage," said Chaplain Parker. "The class will also help provide some accountability to implementing some of the new insight gained."
The Boundaries in Marriage class will be offered Tuesdays, beginning Feb. 3, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Chapel 1. For more information, call 301-981-2111.