Catholic Engaged Encounter continues preparing couples through lockdown

In spite of the Covid restrictions and the peculiar situation in which we find ourselves, CEETT has continued to serve couples who are preparing for marriage. We continue to ensure they have the best possible foundation for their future Sacrament and have an ongoing support system for them as they begin their lives together.

Since May 2020 to April 2021, we have convened 12 virtual Zoom weekends. We have tried to keep the numbers per weekend to no more than 16 couples, to ensure the best possible personal experience. Due to the demand for weekends, we had two weekends in October and November last year, so as not to compromise the interaction. Each weekend has its own WhatsApp group.

In addition, to keep the community connected, the members have steadfastly been faithful to our Wednesday night prayer and sharing (every Wednesday since early August 2020), also on Zoom where we pray, share on various topics/scripture, and catch up with what’s happening in everyone’s lives, sharing our experiences, as we navigate these uncertain times. It’s all done in a very informal and relaxed atmosphere (there is always an after-meeting lime!).

On March 14, we had a one-day retreat attended by 19 members (some with children) as we made every attempt to ensure that the Ministry had a group spiritual experience and keep us aware of the One who called us to this work, and to strengthen our marriage relationships, to be more effective witnesses.

We are also looking to take advantage of these times to reach out in a different way to our couples, via our Facebook, Instagram, and webpage (ceett1982.org), to provide resources and a forum where couples can feel welcomed, listened to, and find resources for their marriage.

Look out for future webinars, podcasts and other such events as we reinvent our outreach and embrace of our married couples. —CEE Magazine