This day-long conference presented by the Diocese of Saint Petersburg and the St. John Paul II Foundation provided an opportunity for couples to experience Christ in the sacraments together while listening to engaging presentations relevant to married life.

“This was such a great chance to spend quality time with my spouse. It was amazing to see couples from all over the diocese, of all ages, gathered together to strengthen our relationships and make sure our marriages are rooted in Christ,” shared Francesca Bauer, Evenings Announcer for Spirit FM 90.5. “All of the speakers were engaging, with practical and accessible take-home points and teachings.”

Presentations were given by Damon Owens, Founder of Joyful Ever After, as well as Dr. Armando Chavarria, Executive Director of Missionary Discipleship for the Diocese of Saint Petersburg and his wife Rhiannon. Topics included understanding the vocation of marriage in relationship to the Church’s mission to share the Gospel, how the faith is passed down through generations, developing habits of prayer and formation at home, as well as practical tips for joyfully sharing the faith within the family. Participants also had the opportunity to discuss marriage with couples at varied ages and stages in their relationships.

“We also had the ability to speak to couples who have been married for up to 53 years, and I am grateful that we had the chance to not only engage in community with other married couples, but to also learn from spouses who have been married much longer than us,” added Bauer. She and her husband were recently married in October of 2024.

As Bishop Gregory Parkes addressed the congregation in his homily during Mass, he reminded them of the deep importance of married life. He shared that prayer and faith allow couples to understand God’s presence alongside them, God’s presence helps them to grow in love, holiness, and service, and these fundamental aspects build a strong foundation for the family.

“Saint John Paul II encouraged married couples to ‘Make prayer a regular part of your daily life’ saying that ‘prayer increases love, and love increases prayer,’” added Bishop Parkes. “When couples pray together, they invite God into their relationship, seeking His wisdom, guidance, peace, and healing.”

One piece of wisdom that was shared throughout the conference was prayer– both for and with one’s spouse. This was echoed in conversations among the couples, presentations from the speakers, and in the homily.

“My dear couples, if we desire strong, joyful, and enduring marriages, we must keep God at the center. Let us renew our commitment to faith and prayer, trusting that with God all things are possible,” concluded Bishop Parkes. “May He bless every married couple with His grace, strengthening their life and guiding them on their journey together in holiness. Amen.”

To learn more about the Together in Holiness Formation Series, visit https://www.dosp.org/marriage-and-family/together-in-holiness-formation-series.