Couples Course

What is it about?

The Hakuna Association offers premarital courses, called courses because of their long duration (3 months) and the serious commitment required from participants.

These courses aim to help those interested prepare as Christians for marriage, addressing the different dimensions of the person. Not only practical content is taught, but also doctrinal content. We try to show a path of spirituality. One of the foundations of the course is the closeness and personalized companionship provided by other experienced couples. It is about preparing the soul to enter and be flooded by the mystery of God, and learning by contrasting with the vision of others.

The courses carry out their activities over three months. Individuals or couples who have any impossibility to attend fully express it so that the way to make up for absences can be studied on a case-by-case basis.

In cases where one of the two who want to take the course is away, by talking with the accompanying couples, the best possible way to resolve their absence will be found so they can follow it remotely. In cases where the wedding takes place during the course, it will also be resolved on a case-by-case basis. The aim is to find a way to make it possible for anyone in special circumstances.

A priest will accompany each course.

General Contact (Spain)
  • Nachi: +34 616 17 73
  • Damascus: +34 699 93 78 30
General Contact (International)
  • Belén and Lorenzo: +34 616 17 73

Structure

1. Discussion Groups (5 sessions)

By discussion group we mean biweekly meetings, in which about five couples participate, accompanied by two experienced couples (called accompanying couples). In each discussion group, one of the couples presents a topic for twenty or thirty minutes. Afterwards, all participants discuss the topic, adding nuances or perspectives, raising doubts or questions; that is, chatting confidently and friendly about the matter, enriching themselves with what each one contributes.

After the course, couples who have participated and wish to continue can keep attending these meetings, but on a monthly basis. It is a good opportunity to walk through the first years of marriage accompanied by other couples with whom they share views, experiences, get to know and love each other. This companionship is very valuable.

In the first session, the couples in each discussion group decide the day, time, and place where these six sessions will take place. They can be at one of their homes, in a bar, at the Hakuna studio… Sometimes, advance notice will be given of some reading or video that must be read or watched beforehand as preparation for the discussion group.

2. Monthly Classes (4 classes)

By classes we mean meetings of all the couples and accompanying couples, in which one or several experts present a topic for 45 or 60 minutes. Then there may be questions.

After the presentation and questions, there will be time to have some drinks. During this time, the speakers or other couples or marriages can discuss the topic. Also, all course participants will get to know each other.

3. GOD STOP (WEEKEND)

This God stop, from Friday night to Sunday afternoon, is a weekend of utmost importance. In a different context, it is about entering the consciousness and intimacy of each one, the two together, and with the strength and light of God, considering marriage as God intended it, in all its fullness and beauty. Listening together to the marriage proposal that God offers to Christians.

In this atmosphere of retreat, away from the world and without rush, listening together to the same things, contrasting them in each heart and with the other – heart to heart –, open to God’s action, is irreplaceable.

During the three months of the course, a God Stop will be organized. If that date is impossible for a couple, as several God Stops of this profile are offered throughout the year, they can choose another date to attend.

4. HOLY HOUR (WEEKLY)

Weekly, couples are offered the possibility to attend a brief talk and Holy Hour, one weekday, late afternoon. When possible, attending this Holy Hour to pray together for a while before the Blessed Sacrament is recommended.

5. SUPPORT FROM A GUIDE COUPLE

Throughout the course, with the guide couple chosen by the couple, there will be two dinners in which topics that may help the couple more personally are addressed.

6. READINGS AND VIDEOS

During these months, two books must be read and two movies watched. Each one at their own pace.

Contents

Talks
  1. The Sacrament of Marriage
  2. Intimacy in Marriage (Sexuality)
  3. Life that GIVES LIFE (Responsible Parenthood)
  4. Children (Gift of God)
Discussion Groups
  1. 5 A’s
  2. Character
  3. Coexistence and Communication
  4. Reconciliation
  5. Stages
SUPPORT FROM GUIDE COUPLE

Two dinners will be organized to have more personal conversations with the guide couple chosen by the couple, where topics considered in each case can be addressed.

READING

“Building Love” – Jose Pedro Manglano
“Couples, Sex, Weddings. 50 Ideas to Make it Work” Jose Pedro Manglano

Videos

During the course, two documentaries/movies will be worked on that present some specific aspect of marriage.

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