What is National Marriage Encounter?

NMEGC is the local affiliate of a large non-profit organization called National Marriage Encounter, Inc. We provide programs that refresh and strengthen marriages, and help couples rebuild romance in their relationship. This process starts with a “Weekend of Romance and Renewal” for married couples to discover themselves more fully in an accepting, loving and safe atmosphere. During the weekend, couples examine their relationship with each other, God, and society. The emphasis is on open and honest communication which leads to a growing awareness of the strength, beauty and uniqueness of themselves and their marriage.

Historically, the Marriage Encounter movement was begun by Gabriel Calvo in Barcelona, Spain in 1952. We still follow the founder's guidelines, and operate as a non-denominational Christian marriage enrichment movement. Couples of all faiths and those with no religious affiliation are invited to share the experience. Fr. Calvo is recognized by ACME (Association of Christian Marriage Enrichment) as the founder of modern day marriage enrichment programs.

We now call our initial Marriage Encounter a “Weekend of Romance and Renewal”. Our team couples have experienced the weekend process, make the principles of ME an important part of their lives, and have been trained to lead the program. These team leaders will share from their life experiences. Your personal sharing during the weekend is strictly between you and your spouse. It is not group therapy, group sharing or marriage counseling. It is a time of private, shared discovery between the husband and wife. (top)

What can National Marriage Encounter do for my marriage?

The goal of “A Weekend of Romance & Renewal” is to help you enrich your marital relationship, your growth as individuals and as a unified couple. The program allows you to evaluate the status of your marriage, to assess its strengths and weaknesses and to share your hopes and dreams for the future. The more you put into the process, the more you’ll get out of it.

Here are some replies from participants:

   * This weekend gave our marriage the booster shot it needed. How
     wonderful!
   * About half way through the weekend my apprehensions disappeared.
     We opened up to each other like never before. And we fell in love again.
   * The most valuable weekend of my life.
   * We gained a lot from it and we have been married less than a year.
     A couple married 50 years said the same thing. It’s amazing how the
     same program fits each of us where we are. (top)

Who is a weekend encounter for?

A Weekend of Romance and Renewal is for a married man and woman who want to improve their relationship. It is for couples of any age, faith, or income and applies to every stage of marriage from newly wed to those celebrating their 50th anniversary and beyond.

For more serious marital challenges such as substance abuse, domestic violence or third party relationships we recommend professional counseling and programs such as Retrouvaille (pronounced re-tro-vi) or The Third Option which are designed for such cases. (top)

What happens on a weekend?

You will hear a series of talks by married couples who will share their experiences, hopes and struggles in areas such as communication, understanding self, subjects for understanding and God's involvement in their marriages. After each talk you will reflect privately on the talk and answer specific questions on the topic. Then you and your spouse will have private time to share your reflections and insights with each other. It is our hope that you will use the tools provided to continue this openness and sharing throughout your daily lives.

There is time for private spiritual reflection and some fun activities are included. (top)

Is there a follow up after the weekend?

Yes there is! We encourage participation in a "Continuing Dialogue" (CD) group which usually meets on a monthly basis to help couples maintain the deeper level of communication developed during the weekend. These groups provide a safe environment where you can share insights and experiences with others. Not only does this keep the process going, it gives you a chance to make some close friendships. Some of our groups have been meeting for more than 20 years. You and your spouse will also be afforded the opportunity to help with future weekends. (top)

What are the costs for the weekend?

Couples are asked to pay a registration fee and then asked to contribute an amount at the end of the weekend to cover our expenses. These amounts vary depending on the facility used and the details planned. National Marriage Encounter of Greater Cincinnati is a non profit ministry staffed with all volunteers who are dedicated to helping others as they themselves were helped. Your donation is tax deductible.

National Marriage Encounter offers the weekend for all couples regardless of their financial situation. If the cost of the weekend represent a serious financial hardship for you please contact us and we will make every effort to accommodate you and your spouse. (top)

When and where are the weekends held?

Weekends of Romance and Renewal are held at local churches, in a retreat center, or in a hotel. While each location offers a different environment and accommodations, the program is the same. For scheduling a Weekend of Romance and Renewal at your church, see the section on this website for CHURCHES. (top)

How do I register for a weekend?

Please send an email with your contact information or call 513-784-7976. (top)

Can a National Marriage Encounter weekend be held at my church?

National Marriage Encounter would be pleased to present a weekend in your church for members of your community.  First, please contact your pastor regarding their interests and what they might expect from the program.  Then contact us to schedule the weekend and make the necessary arrangements.

Additionally, we will be happy to visit your church, or any other group, to explain our program and answer any questions. (top)

What do encountered couples say about the weekend?

Here are some actual quotes from couples who have recently attended a weekend...

"The emphasis on marital unity and God-unity has been a real blessing.  The topics were specific so that all areas of marriage are affected."

"I experienced much grace in the sharing and giving of the team couples, the hospitality of previously encountered couples, the supportive presence of other couples.  The process helped me break out of a 'static' place and begin to open up again."

"I think it was a wonderful time of learning and growing together as a couple - something to build upon for the years to come."

"Marriage Encounter gave me the tools that I need to improve my marriage and to communicate with my wife in an open and loving manner." (top)

We are privileged to be able to offer a particularly good weekend package that will enrich your marriage and strengthen your relationship in calm surroundings.

Join us for our next weekend.

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