Movies, questions provide couples with fun, dialogue

That -- and a willingness to discuss the film -- are all that are needed to benefit from the diocesan Family Life Office's newest marriage enrichment program: Video Viewpoints.

"It's easy and convenient," said Mary Moriarty, associate director of the Family Life Office.

Flicks and Qs

Each video comes with a set of questions designed to promote discussion between couples. (Couples who already own the movie or who prefer to rent their own copy can request just the questions.)

While originally designed for newlyweds, Mrs. Moriarty said the program is for any married couple and can be adapted for engaged couples.

Skill-building

"The perfect marriage is the ideal," Mrs. Moriarty said. "To admit you have less than the ideal can be difficult. We like to set ourselves up as a great family."

However, participating in a marriage enrichment program does not mean a couple is admitting failure. "It's not about having a problem; it's about preventing problems," she said. "It's getting a couple talking about their relationship so they're not just talking about their job, the kids and Bill Clinton."

Benefits

The activity may illustrate for couples that they don't agree on everything, which is a good thing to recognize, Mrs. Moriarty said, adding: "It is our hope that you discover your unique attitudes and experiences, and celebrate the differences."

Themes

"All of them have a question about family of origin since many problems [in marriage] stem from that," she said.

Mrs. Moriarty said parishes are invited to request the materials so that they can distribute them to their own parishioners. Couples can also request the information directly from the Family Life Office.

(To request a movie and discussion questions, or for more information, call the Family Life Office at 453-6677.)

(10-22-98) [[In-content Ad]]