RETROUVAILLE

Jeremy & Glen Moore

“A lifeline for troubled marriages”

Retrouvaille – A history

Origins in Marriage EncounterStarted in Canada in 1970’s“Retrouvaille” – French word“Rediscover” or “Find Again”Aimed specifically at hurting marriages, focussed on healing the hurt and starting again

A Peer Ministry

The Retrouvaille programme is presented by couples to couples.Presenting Couples interface with the Participants through a shared experience of pain caused by one or both partnersAn initial weekend, followed up by a “Post” programme (6 sessions)Opportunity to continue the journey (C.O.R.E)

All are welcome!

Although the programme is led by Christian couples, the main focus is

COMMUNICATION

many couples of other faiths (and none) have experienced Retrouvaille and have decided to work at their marriages again

Working at an integrated approach to issues

Those with substance abuse (alcohol, drugs) issues are encouraged to seek professional help in addition to the programmeThose who would benefit from counselling are directed ACTIVELY to other, better equipped, agenciesHelping couples to save their marriages requires inter-agency co-operation

BEFORE THE PROGRAMME

Initial contact (web, phone, other…)Interview (by an experienced and trained couple)If third parties are involved, a commitment from the spouse to end the relationshipBoth husband and wife must commit to the whole programme BEFORE the initial weekend

ADVANTAGES?

Couple (and marriage) focussedConcentrating on saving the marriage – not saving face!Techniques employed avoid participants lapsing into blamePeer ministry approach gives WITNESS that things can be different

POTENTIAL DISADVANTAGES

Could be seen as too “churchy” – need to focus on the inclusivity of welcome“Common Law” relationshipsGay/Lesbian relationships (especially in light of recent “Civil Partnership” laws)Targeting the audience – first and, often, most difficult step to admit the problem and face it

FINALLY….

A proven record in Canada, USA, South Africa, Italy, Ireland. Internationally, over 50% of those experiencing the programme are still married 5 years laterDemand in USA is so great that they cannot meet it (lack of couples PREPARED to share their stories of pain and hurt)

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

We are currently preparing our websitewww.retrouvaille.org.uk

Visit the USA websitewww.retrouvaille.org…..and read the testimonies

RETROUVAILLE

Heals painBrings renewed hopeEncourages the hurting to try again

And, most importantly…….

SAVES MARRIAGES