TWO FRIENDS IN LOVE – Memorable Marriage Retreat in Nairobi

Under the theme of "Two Friends in Love", the marrieds of the Nairobi Christian Church gathered for a two-day retreat on December 11th and 12th.

Steve and Carol Mukenya

Steve Mukenya opened up the retreat with a powerful and practical class on friendship, making it clear that friendship is the basis for romance, which in turn makes for a great marriage. Without great friendship, therefore, there cannot be a great marriage. One couple shared later how that evening the two of them were competing to share and apologize to each other, such was the impact of what they learned.

Having been inspired by the opening address, the marrieds returned the following day to hear George Irungu speak to the brothers and Carol Mukenya speak to the sisters about "Understanding as the Climate for Growth." George helped the brothers see that no two people are totally compatible and that godly wisdom and understanding rather than educational qualifications or length of time in marriage are what help two people grow in their relationship.

George and Ann Irungu
After a time of meeting in groups for sharing, confession and feedback, Herve Fleurant closed out the retreat with a tremendous, class on parenting followed by an incredibly helpful question-and-answer session. A sister shared later that it was from the question-and-answers that she learned most.

"It has transformed our marriage," shared one couple later. "I can now listen and respect my wife," the husband said, summing up what he walked away with from the conference with these four words: "Great friendship equals a great marriage."

Clearly, the retreat had a great impact on the marriages of many. And before going home the couples present joined together for some fun games that allowed them to laugh together and end the retreat on a very cheerful note.

Notes from each class session: