I wholly agree Ron. When in Congregational ministry I insisted on marriage preparation and I believe that if folk are invited to marry in a 'church' that church offers continuing support, whether the couple continue with them in any formal sense. The last couple I married are a prime example of how to do it right. They still seek us out and we have an on going friendship with them forged through addressing hard questions of commitment and expectations in marriage. Thank God that it does work when all parties are supported and supporting. Pax Christi <>:<

I understand the observation even if it isn't substantiated by any statistical research. Christians expect marriage to be an easier partnership by the fact that we share a conviction of faith. I do believe that, as Peter writes, we are subject to the common temptations, and marriage takes work and commitment to the journey. I have been married for fifteen and a half happy years to a wonderful woman. Through this time we have had two children, face financial and professional challenges, felt the pressures of life that create confusion and life questions. Our faith has supported us through these times and given us the moral and spiritual compass sadly lacking in much of society today. It has not forced us to accept the covenant of marriage as sacred but helped us concensually. I love my wife as my friend, lover, mother of my children, and sister in Christ. Paul writes, in Corinthians, that we are not to divorce which makes me think that it is always God's will to work things out with the welfare of your partner as first concern. With friends and aquaintances in our generation that we have seen go through divorce I can only say that the damage done to the family and the fall out affecting friends the best way is God's way.

I am surprised but enlightened by this blog. As a MB ENFP I would probably be the one coming to talk with you. It was always my assumption (led to it by the guy who did my profile) that church leaders are E while their congregation are more often than not I. I do see the sense in introverts being better addressing crowds but the emergent prognosis ... See Moreis that this isn't hitting the post modern button in most people's need for spiritual intimacy. I wish you every blesssing and peace in the call of Christ, thank you for your honesty.