We first attended the Marriage Enrichment Retreat (MER) in 2018, a year after we joined Couples for Christ (CFC) Singapore. We then completed MER 2 in 2019, and it was a truly transformative experience for us. Last year, we had the privilege of being part of the service team, which was an immensely rewarding experience as we served alongside other couples, contributing to the community.
This year’s MER provided us with another unforgettable experience, which was held last June 15-16 at Best Western Hotel in Batam, Indonesia. We were able to bring along our children and given that the retreat was close to the holiday season, our CFC household decided to stay an additional night. Although one couple from our household could not join us, the rest of us participated together, turning the retreat into an extended family affair. We celebrated our daughter Ainna’s 17th birthday, the birthday of Bro George, one of our household members, and Father’s Day, all in one. The love of God was evident in both our household and the CFC community.
Our marriage is a journey, akin to a marathon, and we face its challenges with confidence, knowing that Jesus Christ is with us. The MER has been instrumental in enhancing our communication and deepening our understanding of each other, reflecting the love Christ has for us. The talks and shared experiences from the speakers and sharers were profoundly moving and inspiring, allowing us to listen with our hearts. Our experience has led us to believe that every married couple should attend the MER. After eighteen years of marriage, we have encountered our fair share of challenges, trials, pain, and joys; and our commitment to our marriage and to the Lord has strengthened our bond. The CFC community has played a significant role in uniting us in Christ and His love. And we are grateful to God’s mercy and
grace to us.
The theme of this year’s MER, “United in Love,” reminded us of Christ’s love for us, as stated in 1 John 4:19: “We love because He first loved us.” The happiness we experienced during the retreat was immeasurable. Throughout our journey from Singapore to Batam, Indonesia and back, the love and warmth was evident. This was also our first MER outside Johor, Malaysia marking another milestone for us. Core memories have been created and we couldn’t be thankful enough for all the activities that CFC gives to its members.
The CFC service team ensured that all participants were well cared for, and the enjoyment of the social night was evident in the photos and videos. We were able to relive the early joys of our marriage and even had the pleasure of seeing our eldest child dance at the banquet. We extend our gratitude to the service team, the East 2 and North 3 CFC Chapters, as well as to all the servant leaders who conceptualised and organised this year’s MER.
This experience has reinforced the importance of making the MER an annual event and we would be delighted to include our children in future retreats.
And with this may God be praised!
— Bro Rudolph and Sis Aims Razul
Household Leaders of CFC Serangoon 2 Chapter Unit 3 Household 4
31 July 2024