Couples: Bond Through Periodic Hangouts to Strengthen Marriages, Catholic Church Urges.

 Couples: Bond Through Periodic Hangouts to Strengthen Marriages, Catholic Church Urges.

The Catholic Church has advised married couples to engage in periodic hangouts and outside-the-home treats as a means of boosting intimacy and ensuring marital stability.

The advice was given on Sunday during the Catholic Men Organisation (CMO) Couples’ Feast held at Saints Peter and Paul Parish, Tedi, Lagos.

Speaking at the event, a marriage counselor, Mr. Okechukwu Obereagu, described marriage as a divine calling with specific purposes and guiding principles. He emphasized that marriage is the first institution established by God to sustain humanity.

Mr. Obereagu lamented that many couples unknowingly contribute to the erosion of their unions, which often leads to separation or divorce. He encouraged spouses to reignite the spark in their relationships through bonding activities like regular hangouts.

“Couples should pray together, making God the pilot of their marital journey. Expect imperfection from your partner and embrace it with love. Avoid unhealthy arguments and competitions, laugh together, and know when to do things that endear you to each other,” he advised.

He also warned against prolonged conflicts, urging couples not to sleep separately during disputes. “Let one person activate the healing process within 24 hours to resolve any friction,” he added.

Also speaking, the CMO Chaplain and Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Anthony Thompson, charged fathers to love their wives as Christ loved the Church, and wives to be submissive, avoid constant complaints, and live as exemplary Christian mothers.

Fr. Thompson urged all parishioners to maintain an attitude of gratitude to God for the gift of life and prayed for peace in homes and divine protection for children.

The event featured prayer sessions, entertainment, and teachings on sustaining love in marriage.