Recently ICF Wageningen followed in the footsteps of ICF Utrecht. A group of 12 intercultural couples got together to discuss the marriage challenges of being from different cultural backgrounds.

Claude and Corina Mushikangondo, churchworkers in ICF Rotterdam, led two workshops to help the couples reflect on their situation. The couples did exercises on intercultural communication and discussed how culture impacts men/women roles and money matters (the top two reasons why couples fight). The groups then continue by their own, and decide which topic they want to discuss and how. It is wonderful to see the enthusiasm in the groups. Participants get to know each other in a different way. Couples with a longer track record are happy to share experience with the younger ones.

Some quotes from participants:

“I feel reconnected with other ICF members over food and the word of God. For me this is already serving the families/couples. The topics discussed improved our open communication, and at the same time challenged what I thought we knew”.

“Outstanding is the simple fact of Claude and Corine’s intercultural example – from about as opposite poles as you can imagine, yet in love and ministering together. Fabulous examples of how it can work. And inspiring to any couples trying to see how to grow their relationship.”

“It worked well to discuss the questions about forgiveness as a couple! It’s very special how open people are in the group.”

Are there intercultural couples in your church or community and do you need training and guidance for these couples and/or for your pastoral staff? Then you can invite Claude and Corina. More info? Call Corina: 06-28812666 or request more information via office@icpnetwork.nl