by Chrisma Pereira
KUWAIT, JANUARY 15, 2014: On Thursday, 9 January 2014, the Cherubs Team of the Family Ministry of St Thérèse Parish in the North Arabian Vicariate organized its monthly program for couples 
The Program began with Mass celebrated by Fr. Francis Kharjia. The liturgy was well prepared keeping the marriage theme in mind. The liturgical singing was animated by the melodious voices of the school children, ably led by Faust and Reema. In his usual witty style, Fr. Francis touched upon various marriage issues, emphasizing the importance of keeping Christ, love and mutual respect at the center of their marriages.
The homily was followed by renewal of marriage vows. At the end of the mass, each couple came forward to be specially blessed by Fr. Francis and receive a momento – a Diary of Daily devotionals, a book by Pope Paul II, a Family Prayer Card and an inspirational fridge magnet.
Mass was followed by a brief presentation by Cherub Susan D'costa on the various parish activities to increase awareness and offer these empty nesting couples an opportunity to participate more actively in the parish community.
Over light snacks, an enrichment session was conducted by Amira Peter on "Defeating the Parasite in our Marriage" with a focus on the challenges of midlife. The session illustrated how lifestyle patterns that bring pleasure, joy and comfort if not kept in check / eliminated could gradually invade our lives and marriages, ultimately destroying us. Spiritual and practical measures for fireproofing our marriages against these parasites were also discussed. Three couples Diana & Wilfred, Milania & Jacob and Latha & Kuruvilla shared how they are fireproofing their marriages with infusions of love and spirituality.
This enriching session was followed by a lively fellowship of innovative games, spot prizes and plenty of dancing. The lively music provided by Cherub Shaun Rebello kept the couples on their feet while MC Charlie did a stellar job of keeping them all engaged and excited with active games.
Vote of Thanks delivered by Bertha, Francis Dsouza and Libby Sequeira summed it up all so well. While expressing strong appreciation for the Cherubs and the Parish, Bertha added "It was an enjoyable evening…we met with old friends and made some new friends too". Trinidade DeSouza sent in an email saying, "I enjoyed the program to the fullest and will carry this memorable event with me always".
Nourished and enriched, the couples returned back to their homes after volunteering for the various parish activities. Feedback forms completed by the couples will help the Cherubs continuously improve the program over time.
"For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future". Jer 29: 11