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Shaw Chaplains Strenghthen Marriage with Retreat

As a part of the marriage retreat held in Charleston, S.C., May 18, 2013, by the Shaw Air Force Base Chapel team, couples practice better techniques for communication. One of the many methods they tried was sitting directly in front of each other knee to knee and eye to eye. The retreat was held to strengthen the bond of the couples and help enhance their marriage. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Ashley L. Gardner/Released)

Shaw chapel team hosts MarriageCare retreat 2013

Published May 21, 2013
By Airman 1st Class Daniel Blackwell
20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- MarriageCare 2013, hosted by the Shaw Chapel team, took place in Charleston, S.C., to help equip couples with tools to improve their marriage.

The goal of this event, and expectations for couples, was to strengthen their marriage, bond with one another, promote positive growth and change and also have fun.

There were 25 couples at the retreat, all Shaw active-duty military couples.

The 20th Fighter Wing Chaplain's Corps mission is, "Taking care of Air Force families," and they say their hope is that Airmen take full advantage of events such as these.

"It would be ideal for Airmen to attend such events before they're in crisis," said Capt. Kathy Scott, a 20th FW chaplain. "But the reality is we live in a fast paced society, and it's hard enough to plan for tomorrow, let alone set aside time for ourselves."

"However, I'd encourage couples to take advantage of these opportunities before there is a significant problem that can't be ignored," she added.

The three-day event covered many topics, from communication and trust, to the difficulties and strains of deployments, temporary duty and other assignments that require separation for long periods of time.

Attendees said they enjoyed the event and took a lot away from the seminars and relationship building sessions.

"It was really nice," said Airman 1st Class Blake Lewis, 55th "Shooters" Aircraft Maintenance Squadron avionics technician. "The seminars were truly helpful and very engaging."

"I really think Airmen should take these opportunities to get away with the person you love," he continued. "Events like these give you a good reminder of how things should be in marriage."

The chapel staff in attendance felt that the event was well worth the time and not only helped marriages, but Airman resiliency as well.

"We feel if there is a strong foundation in marriage it helps Airmen and spouses remain resilient and better deal with big issues like deployments," explained Scott.

Those in attendance took much away from the event that they could incorporate into their marriage in the future.

"I gradually saw a positive transformation in the couples throughout the weekend," Scott said. "My hope is that the closeness found during the retreat, remains when they return to their daily lives."

The Shaw Chapel staff hopes to put on more events such as these in the future, pending funding. To check on upcoming events and similar opportunities, visit Shawchapel.org or call 895-1107.