"Love is never something ready made, something merely 'given' to man and woman; it is always at the same time a 'task' which they are set. Love should be seen as something which in a sense never 'is' but is always only 'becoming', and what it becomes depends up on the contribution of both persons and the depth of their commitment."
- St. John Paul II, Love and Responsibility
Marriage is like a beautiful garden - in order for it to bloom and bear fruit, it needs to be cultivated, enriched, and protected. Daily life offers many opportunities for couples to grow in their love and commitment to one another. On the other hand, married couples face also many challenges in their lifelong journey together, from the demands of work to the stressors of daily life. The good news is couples do not have to face these struggles alone. They have one another, and they have the greater family of the Church to offer support, encouragement, and wisdom.
This page offers marriage enrichment resources for couples who seek to strengthen, rejuvenate, or heal their marriage. Please know that this is not an exhaustive list. If the offerings below are not suitable for your needs, we encourage you to seek your local parish for advice or information.
For Your Marriage helps couples at all stages of life to understand and live God’s plan for happy, holy marriages by providing educational and spiritual resources. The website was launched in 2007 as part of the USCCB National Pastoral Initiative for Marriage. Visit their Marriage Enrichment page to view their wonderful collection of articles and other materials.
National Marriage Week USA seeks to mobilize individuals, organizations, and businesses in common purpose to strengthen marriage in communities and convey what the social science clearly tells us: marriage leads to greater wealth, health, longevity and happiness.
Cana Feast is an online ministry dedicated to helping busy Catholic couples deepen their connection with each other and with God. We offer faith-filled and practical inspiration and resources for husbands and wives to make their marriage an intentional priority in their daily lives.
Marriage Encounter is a weekend for married Christian couples who value their relationship and desire a richer, fuller life together. Online retreats are available!
World Wide Marriage Encounter
World Wide Marriage Encounter (WWME) is an international marriage organization that promotes weekend experiences for couples who want to take their marriage to the next step!
Seattle Worldwide Marriage Encounter
The Seattle Worldwide Marriage Encounter is the local chapter of the WWME network. Visit their website for information specific to Western Washington.