Sussex church hosts marriage seminar

SUSSEX — More than 20 couples gathered at Sussex Christian Reformed Church in Sussex on Saturday, March 22, to "stoke the flames" of their relationship as part of a Family Fire marriage seminar.

The guest speakers from Chicago, the Rev. Steven and Deb Koster, leaders of the Family Fire ministry, shared humorous stories from their own relationship into the Bible-based presentation.

"We are both broken, flawed people in need of God's love," Deb said. "But when we grow in grace and love for each other, that grace flows out to others."

The Kosters addressed topics like healthy communication, 10 rules for fair fighting, and intimacy: emotional, physical and spiritual.

"Shared spiritual practice is the No. 1 predictor of a healthy marriage," said Steven, who also is the director of ReFrame Media.

The couples attending the seminar participated in exercises that helped define each spouse's natural communication style, personal comfort level, and family dynamics. Participants were encouraged to take the questionnaires home and use them as conversation starters to help make communication a priority in their marriage.

The free seminar was open to the public and included a dinner catered by Clove Brook Market and dessert by Holland American Bakery. It was an initiative from the church's Education Committee to help members connect faith to all parts of life.