ZAMBIA: Hosts Marriage Encounter Catholic Movement’s Pan-African Conference
Members of Marriage Encounter Catholic Movement
Sandra Kunda
Over 500 couples from across Africa gathered at Mount Zion in Lusaka this week for the Annual Pan-African Conference of the Marriage Encounter Catholic Movement, an event aimed at strengthening the bond of marriage through faith and shared experiences.
The conference which was hosted in Zambia after many years, saw participation from couples and priests from across the continent.
The Catholic Church views marriage as a sacred institution, a reflection of God’s love and a covenant between spouses. To support couples in nurturing this holy bond, the Church formed the Marriage Encounter Movement, a global initiative that helps couples deepen their relationships through faith-based programs.
This year’s conference, held from 24th to 28th September 2024, was part of the Church’s ongoing effort to promote strong, faith-filled marriages.
The Marriage Encounter Movement’s National Coordinating couple, Peter and Cathy, expressed their delight in Zambia being chosen as the host country for the international event.
They emphasized the importance of the conference, saying it provides a space for couples to renew their commitment to one another and to God.
“We are blessed to see so many couples from all over Africa come together to strengthen their marriages. This gathering not only deepens relationships but also strengthens families and communities,” said the National Coordinators.
The conference provided tools for communication, conflict resolution, and other key aspects of married life.
Some of the attending Encountered priests, including Fr. Zakhele Ziqubu from South Africa and Fr. Anthony Bansi of Cameroon, emphasized the movement’s strong spiritual foundation, with prayer and reflection adding that being encountered also helps them in their day to day lives.
Meanwhile, Theodosia and Victor, a couple from Cameroon, shared how impactful the experience has been for them.
They said the tools provided by the movement have helped them reduce conflicts and resolve minor disputes more quickly.
“The experience has enriched us, and we will not go back the same. We have gained new insights and practical advice we can apply to our marriage,” they said.
Cecilia and Marshall, who have been married for 31 years, highlighted how the Marriage Encounter has helped them to know one another better and communicate more effectively.
Meanwhile, Harriet and Sebastian shared how they have learned to stay together through both good and bad times while continuing to love each other.
The couples who attended encouraged other couples, both within and outside the Catholic Church, to join the Marriage Encounter and experience its benefits.
The Marriage Encounter Catholic Movement’s Pan-African Conference is not only a platform for learning but also a celebration of love, unity, and faith.
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