August 3, 2006
Who Needs FOCCUS?
A growing number of congregations and ministers have become more
intentional about providing marriage preparation through FOCCUS (Facilitating
Open Couple Communication, Understanding, and Study) materials and training.
Since 2003, more than 120 individuals across the United States have
participated in the FOCCUS inventory training.
| Who needs FOCCUS? The answer is twofold: anyone who
believes that covenantal relationships are important; and any community
who proclaims Jesus Christ and promotes communities of joy, hope, love,
and peace. Call Peace and
Justice Ministries at 1-800-825-2806, for more about FOCCUS or to find a
facilitator. |
FOCCUS gives couples the opportunity to discover strengths and areas for
growth in their relationships by looking at issues including but not limited
to finances, parenting, religion and values, personality match, and extended
family. Couples complete a one-hour inventory, which results in a report
detailing couples’ strengths and growth areas. Follow-up sessions are used to
review the report.
FOCCUS is not a test, nor is it a predictor of whether or not a marriage
will succeed. Instead, it creates awareness of issues to help couples make
decisions about their relationship. Ideally, the FOCCUS inventory would be
administered before a couple becomes engaged. Engaged couples who are six
months or more from a wedding date will also gain valuable insight in this
process. The inventory may be used up to three years into a marriage.
Outreach to Couples
The most exciting thing about FOCCUS is couples’ reactions. In the years I
have been using it, every couple has been enthusiastic about the process and
results. This ministry is an outreach to communities and is highly specific,
though not exclusive, to young adults.
One of my most memorable experiences was with a young Catholic woman and
her boyfriend, who had been raised Methodist. They were aware marriage
preparation typically cost $150 to $300 and were ready to pay. I assured them
the $25 processing fee was the only cost. I shared about my call to ministry
and assured them my work with them was part of it.
Our Wednesday evening sessions at the congregation coincided once a month
with our congregational meal. The couple enjoyed fellowshipping with the
congregation and not having to plan a meal at home. At the close of our
sessions, we exchanged hugs and thanks.
The couple expressed that if they decided to marry, our church would be an
ideal place for the ceremony and their relationship. The pastor received a
donation from them in gratitude for the ministry of marriage preparation.
—Jeri Lauren S. Lambert reporting
Family ministry specialist
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