The Story Behind the St. Francis of Assisi Marriage Enrichment Ministry

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For more than ten years, Jim and I were involved in a marriage ministry that was study based, spiritually enriching and offered the gift of gathering monthly with like-minded couples in a small group setting.  Those years strengthened our marriage and helped us build meaningful relationships with other married couples in the parish.

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Then the Pandemic arrived and like so many ministries, ours began to fall apart without the personal connection that had held it together.  When we attempted to regroup afterward, we realized that couples were busier than ever and committing to  a regular monthly meeting had become increasingly difficult.

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After much prayer, discussion and discernment we felt called by the Holy Spirit to explore a new direction, one that would still support marriage but in a way that was more accessible, more flexible and more community building.  We had noticed that neighboring Catholic parishes offered marriage enrichment ministries centered around fellowship and social connection.  We sensed that our own large parish community needed something similar.

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With that in mind we met with our Pastor, Fr. Rudy Garcia to share our vision for a Marriage Enrichment Ministry at St. Francis.  We knew many of our married parish couples were attending marriage events elsewhere and it was clear that our parish home needed a space for couples to gather, grow and connect.

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Fr. Rudy gave us his blessing and with the support of Deacon Alex Barbieri and Deacon Henry Weichman, we began the formal approval process.  Once approved, the real work began.  With the guidance, support  and encouragement of Terry Bannerman, our parish Ministry Leader our vision has come to life.

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What began as a hope and a prayer has not become a ministry dedicated to strengthening marriage, building community and creating opportunities for couples to grow together in faith and fellowship.