
The weekend ends. The six weeks conclude. But marriage continues.
Your diocese has invested in crisis intervention through Rediscovery Retrouvaille. You're providing early support through Six Weeks to Us. But what happens after? How do couples sustain the transformation? How do they continue growing instead of sliding back into old patterns? How does this become a parish-level community of couples?
Couples Reconnect, known as CORE provides the answer: ongoing community-based support that keeps couples connected, accountable, and growing long after the initial program ends.
CORE prevents this drift by creating sustainable, parish-based communities where couples continue the work of marriage enrichment together.
What Is CORE (Couples Reconnect)?
CORE is a monthly gathering program designed for couples who have completed Rediscovery Retrouvaille, Six Weeks to Us, or other marriage enrichment programs, such as Marriage Encounter.
It provides structured ongoing support that helps couples in their parish:
The Reality CORE Addresses . . .
Research shows that follow-up support dramatically improves long-term outcomes:
CORE provides the structure and community that transforms temporary breakthrough into lasting transformation. This CORE group of couples becomes the CORE of your parish.
Why Your Parishes Need CORE . . .
One of the most powerful aspects of CORE is that it becomes self-sustaining:
This creates a multiplication effect: couples who receive support become couples who provide support, creating sustainable marriage ministry.
Building a Culture of Marriage Support
When parishes host regular CORE gatherings, the culture shifts:
From: "We only talk about marriage when there's a crisis"
To: "We invest in our marriages continuously"
From: "Strong couples don't need help"
To: "Strong couples get stronger through community"
From: "Marriage support is for struggling couples"
To: "Marriage support is for all couples"
CORE normalizes ongoing investment in marriage—making it a lifestyle, not just crisis management.
What Makes CORE Uniquely Effective?
Monthly Rhythm That's Sustainable
CORE meets monthly (typically 1.5-2 hours on a weekend evening or Sunday afternoon).
This rhythm is:
Manageable: Doesn't overwhelm busy couples but provides regular touch points
Consistent: Creates accountability without feeling burdensome
Flexible: Parishes can adapt timing to fit their community's needs
Long-term: Couples can participate for years, not just weeks or months
Welcoming: Informal gatherings with shared meals or special events become a looked-forward-to social events
The monthly gathering becomes anticipated, valued time that couples protect on their calendars.
Structured Yet Flexible Format
Each CORE gathering typically includes:
Opening Prayer & Check-In (15 minutes)
Couples briefly share an ice breaker question about how they are doing as a couple
Discussion Topic (40 minutes)
Structured content on marriage themes: communication, conflict management, intimacy, parenting as partners, financial unity. Spiritual growth together that is based on the church calendar
Couple Dialogue Time (20 minutes)
Private time for couples to discuss the topic using communication tools learned in initial programs
Community Sharing & Prayer (15 minutes)
Optional sharing of insights, prayer requests, mutual encouragement
This structure provides both content and connection—teaching and community.
Implementation: Bringing CORE to Your Parish
Parish Requirements (Minimal)
Physical Space: Parish hall, meeting room, or couple's home
Materials: Monthly discussion guides (provided by CORE program)
Leadership: 2-3 couples willing to champion the program and help in planning
Schedule: One 90 minute to 2-hour gathering per month
That's it. CORE is designed to be sustainable with minimal resources.
Getting Started
Step 1: Identify 2-3 couples who've completed Rediscovery Retrouvaille or Six Weeks to Us willing to co-facilitate or integrate into an existing couple group in your parish
Step 2: Set a consistent monthly schedule (e.g., third Saturday evening, last Sunday afternoon)
Step 3: Invite all couples who've attended marriage programs; open to any married couples seeking support and enrichment
Step 4: Use provided discussion guides and let your imagination lead the way. Groups have integrated covered dish shared meals, picnics, cookouts, Valentine’s dinners, dance lessons, Christmas parties, Lenten retreats, and other fun “date night” ideas to make CORE a fun and enriching experience.
Step 5: Promote consistently—in bulletins, after programs, through personal invitation
Step 6: Create welcoming atmosphere with refreshments, childcare if possible
Step 7: Allow the group to grow organically through word-of-mouth
Sustainability Strategies
Rotate leadership: Different couples facilitate each month, distributing the workload
Flexible attendance: Couples attend when they can; life happens, and CORE accommodates
Social elements: Occasionally replace structured meetings with purely social gatherings (dinner, game night, holiday celebrations) to strengthen friendships. Groups have integrated covered dish meals, picnics, cookouts, Valentine’s dinners, dance lessons, Christmas parties, Lenten retreats, and other fun “date night” ideas to make CORE a fun and enriching experience.
Service projects: Periodically gather for service rather than discussion—strengthening bonds through shared mission
Annual celebrations: Mark anniversaries, renewal of vows, or achievements in the group
The Diocesan Impact: Completing the Continuum
CORE completes your comprehensive marriage ministry strategy:
Level 1: Marriage preparation and enrichment
Level 2: Six Weeks to Us (early support for disconnection)
Level 3: Rediscovery Retrouvaille (intensive crisis intervention)
Level 4: CORE (ongoing support and enrichment) ← This is the capstone
Without Level 4, couples cycle through Levels 2 and 3 repeatedly. With CORE, couples sustain their growth and help others do the same.
Multiplication Effect
Strong CORE groups create a multiplication cycle:
This creates self-perpetuating, ever-expanding marriage ministry throughout your diocese.
A Call to Action
CORE is not a luxury add-on to marriage ministry. It's the essential follow-up that makes all other programs effective long-term.
Every parish offering Rediscovery Retrouvaille or Six Weeks to Us should have an active CORE group. Without it, you're setting couples up for temporary gains rather than lasting transformation.
CORE provides:
And it requires minimal parish investment—just space, schedule, and willing couples.
For information on starting a CORE group in your parish, visit www.CouplesReconnect.org or call 1-866-213-0909.
"And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another." — Hebrews 10:24-25
Frequently Asked Questions About CORE
Q: Who can attend CORE gatherings?
A: Primarily couples who've completed Rediscovery Retrouvaille, Six Weeks to Us, or similar marriage programs. However, any married couple seeking support and community can attend.
Q: Is CORE counseling or therapy?
A: No. CORE is peer support and enrichment, not professional counseling. Couples needing therapy should be referred to licensed counselors.
Q: What if our parish is too small for a CORE group?
A: Partner with neighboring parishes. Even 4-6 couples can form a meaningful CORE group.
Q: How long do couples typically participate in CORE?
A: Many couples participate for years. CORE becomes their primary couple community and marriage support and enrichment practice.
Q: What's the parish's financial commitment?
A: Minimal. Discussion guides are affordable and provided digitally if the parish is supporting Rediscovery Retrouvaille or Six Weeks to Us programming ; space is already available. Some parishes subsidize childcare or refreshments, but costs are very low.
Q: How does CORE differ from a regular small group?
A: CORE is specifically focused on marriage support and enrichment using structured dialogue techniques learned in initial programs. Regular small groups may discuss various topics; CORE maintains marriage as the central focus.
Every marriage ministry needs follow-up. CORE provides it—creating sustainable communities where couples thrive, serve, and witness to covenant love.
Have a question or want to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you. Contact us today and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

CORE participants become your parish's marriage ministry workforce:
CORE is not just receiving support—it's a leadership development pipeline.

CORE groups naturally include couples across life stages:
This diversity creates rich mentoring relationships: seasoned couples offer wisdom; younger couples bring fresh energy; everyone learns from everyone.

When a parish has a vibrant CORE group, it sends powerful messages:
To struggling couples: "There's hope. Look at these couples who've been where we are and are now thriving."
To young couples: "Marriage is worth investing in continuously, not just when there's crisis."
To the broader community: "This parish takes marriage seriously—not just in theory but in practice."
To other couples: "We're not alone. Other couples face similar challenges and are working on their marriages too."
This witness is evangelization—demonstrating that covenant love is possible and supported.

CORE provides relational safety nets:
This peer accountability prevents many couples from sliding back into serious trouble.

CORE serves as the "home base" for ongoing marriage ministry in the parish:
For Rediscovery Retrouvaille graduates: CORE provides the post-weekend support recommended for lasting healing
For Six Weeks to Us participants: CORE is the natural next step for continued growth
For all married couples: CORE offers enrichment for any couple wanting to invest in their marriage - the message is clear. All are welcome here.
CORE becomes the gathering place where couples from all programs converge, creating rich multigenerational and multi-stage community.

CORE gatherings are facilitated by couples,
for couples:
This peer model creates authenticity, accessibility, and multiplication of leadership.

NEW YEAR, STRONGER MARRIAGE
What if this year your marriage got even better? What if you invested in "us" with the same intention you give to fitness goals and career plans?
CORE (Couples Reconnect) kicks off the new year with a fresh start gathering! This month we're focusing on setting marriage intentions together, sharing hopes and dreams for the year ahead, and reconnecting after the holiday rush.
This Month's Theme: New Beginnings & Marriage Goal Setting
Suggested Activity: Dream together—where do you want your marriage to go this year?
CORE is a monthly gathering for married couples seeking ongoing support, friendship, and marriage enrichment. Whether you've attended Rediscovery Retrouvaille, Six Weeks to Us, Marriage Encounter, or are simply looking for couple community—you're invited!
Each gathering includes prayer, marriage enrichment discussion, private couple dialogue time, and community. Part social event, part spiritual direction, part marriage support—all fun and connection.
This Month: [Day/Time] | Parish Hall
Childcare available | Light refreshments | Bring another couple!
"Start the year investing in what matters most."
Info: www.CouplesReconnect.org |
CELEBRATE NATIONAL MARRIAGE WEEK & VALENTINE'S DAY
February 7-14 is National Marriage Week, and the Church celebrates World Marriage Day! What better time to gather with couples who believe marriage is worth celebrating every day?
CORE (Couples Reconnect) hosts our annual Valentine's & Marriage Week Celebration! Dress up a bit, bring your favorite dessert to share, and enjoy an evening of romance, laughter, and marriage enrichment with couples who get it.
This Month's Theme: The Language of Love
Suggested Activity: Learn your spouse's love language and practice speaking it
Special Feature: Valentine's dessert potluck—bring your sweetest creation!
CORE welcomes all married couples! If you've completed marriage enrichment programs (Rediscovery Retrouvaille, Six Weeks to Us, Marriage Encounter), you'll love the ongoing support. New to marriage enrichment? Perfect—come see what it's about!
Join us for prayer, meaningful conversation about strengthening your marriage, private couple dialogue, and celebrating love together.
Valentine's Gathering: [Day/Time] | Parish Hall
Childcare provided | Dress to impress (or come casual—we love you anyway!)
"Love is worth celebrating. Marriage is worth investing in."
Info: www.CouplesReconnect.org |
LENT CALLS US TO LOVE IN ACTION
Lent isn't just about giving up—it's about growing in love. What if this Lenten season was when your love became more active, more intentional, more service-oriented?
CORE (Couples Reconnect) gathers for a special Love in Action Gathering this month. We'll focus on how marriage calls us to serve each other and the world, and how acts of service deepen love.
This Month's Theme: Service, Sacrifice & Love in Action
Suggested Activity: Choose one act of service to do together this Lent—for each other or for your community
Special Feature: Service project planning—or meatless potluck if your group prefers!
CORE is your monthly couple community—a place where marriage is supported, friendships are built, and faith is lived out together. All married couples welcome, whether you're marriage enrichment veterans or brand new to intentional couple gatherings.
Expect prayer, discussion on marriage and faith, private couple time, and support for living love actively.
Love in Action Gathering: [Day/Time] | Parish Hall
Childcare available | Invite another couple to journey with you
"Love is a verb—let's put it into action together."
Info: www.CouplesReconnect.org |
EASTER JOY, MARRIAGE RENEWAL
Christ is risen! Easter celebrates new life, resurrection, and hope. Your marriage can experience renewal too—not because it's dying, but because even good marriages grow better with intentional care.
CORE (Couples Reconnect) celebrates spring with an Easter Season Renewal Gathering. We'll focus on fresh starts, forgiveness, and the hope that love can always grow deeper.
This Month's Theme: Renewal, Forgiveness & Fresh Starts
Suggested Activity: Share one thing you'd like to renew in your marriage this spring
Special Feature: Easter joy celebration—bring spring flowers or treats to share!
Whether you've attended Rediscovery Retrouvaille, Six Weeks to Us, Marriage Encounter, or are simply seeking supportive couple community—CORE welcomes you. We're a monthly gathering that blends prayer, marriage enrichment, meaningful conversation, and genuine friendship.
Join couples who believe strong marriages get stronger when we invest together.
Easter Season Gathering: [Day/Time] | Parish Hall
Childcare provided | Celebrate new life in marriage
"Resurrection isn't just theology—it's how love comes back to life."
Info: www.CouplesReconnect.org |
SPRING IS IN FULL BLOOM—SO IS YOUR MARRIAGE
May brings new life, growth, and beauty. Your marriage is growing too—sometimes in ways you notice, sometimes in quiet, steady ways that surprise you.
CORE (Couples Reconnect) celebrates spring with a Spring Renewal & Growth Gathering. Come reflect on how your marriage has grown, share what you're grateful for, and dream together about the seasons ahead.
This Month's Theme: Growth, Gratitude & New Life in Marriage
Suggested Activity: Plant something together—a garden, a tree, a potted plant—as a symbol of your growing love
Special Feature: Share your "how we met" story—bring photos if you have them!
CORE is where marriages are strengthened, friendships are formed, and couples support each other through all seasons. Open to all married couples—whether you're celebrating 50 years or 5 months, whether you've done marriage programs or this is your first step into couple community.
Expect laughter, prayer, marriage enrichment discussion, and connection with couples who value what you value.
Spring Gathering: [Day/Time] | Parish Hall
Childcare available | Bring another couple to celebrate with!
"Marriage grows like a garden—with care, attention, and seasons of renewal."
Info: www.CouplesReconnect.org |
SUMMER BEGINS—LET'S KICK IT OFF TOGETHER!
School's out, schedules shift, and summer beckons. Before the season gets away from you, invest an evening in your marriage and couple friendships.
CORE (Couples Reconnect) kicks off summer with a fun Summer Celebration & Game Night! Bring your competitive spirit (and maybe a favorite lawn game or board game), and let's celebrate the season together.
This Month's Theme: Fun, Play & Keeping Connection Alive
Suggested Activity: Plan one summer adventure as a couple
Special Feature: Game night! Bring a game to share or just come ready to play
CORE welcomes all married couples to our monthly gatherings. If you've completed Rediscovery Retrouvaille, Six Weeks to Us, or Marriage Encounter, you'll love the ongoing community. New to CORE? Perfect timing—summer gatherings are especially fun!
We blend marriage enrichment with social connection, prayer with laughter, and meaningful conversation with genuine fun.
Summer Kickoff Gathering: [Day/Time] | Parish Hall or Outdoors (weather permitting)
Childcare available | Casual dress | BYOG (Bring Your Own Game!)
"Marriage is serious—but it's also meant to be fun!"
Info: www.CouplesReconnect.org |
PICNIC, PLAY & PRAYER—CORE STYLE!
Nothing says summer like a picnic! Join CORE couples for our annual Summer Picnic & Outdoor Gathering where we'll enjoy good food, great company, and time to connect both as couples and as community.
This Month's Theme: Community, Connection & Summer Joy
Suggested Activity: Outdoor couple time—walk, talk, reconnect in nature
Special Feature: Potluck picnic! Bring your favorite summer dish—we'll provide drinks and fun
CORE (Couples Reconnect) is your monthly couple community—a place where marriages are supported and friendships flourish. All married couples welcome! Whether you're graduates of marriage programs or brand new to intentional couple gatherings, you belong here.
This month we'll gather outdoors (weather permitting) for prayer, brief marriage enrichment discussion, picnic meal, and plenty of time to enjoy each other's company. Bring lawn chairs, your appetite, and another couple!
Summer Picnic: [Day/Time] | Parish Grounds (or Parish Hall if weather requires)
Childcare available | Potluck style | Lawn games encouraged
"Summer memories are sweeter when made with couple friends."
Info: www.CouplesReconnect.org |
ESCAPE TOGETHER—CORE ADVENTURE EDITION!
Before summer ends, let's make one more memory! CORE (Couples Reconnect) hosts our annual Couples Day Trip Adventure this month—beach, lake, mountains, or wherever the group decides!
This Month's Theme: Adventure, Fun & Creating Memories
Suggested Activity: Get out of routine—explore somewhere new together
Special Feature: Day trip adventure! Details TBA based on group preferences
This month we trade the parish hall for God's great outdoors. We'll carpool, share snacks, enjoy nature, have brief prayer and couple reflection time, and mostly just enjoy being together in a beautiful setting.
CORE is more than a program—it's a community. Open to all married couples seeking friendship, support, and ongoing marriage enrichment. If you've participated in Rediscovery Retrouvaille, Six Weeks to Us, or Marriage Encounter, you already know the value of couple community. New here? Come discover it!
Adventure Day: [Day/Time—likely a Saturday] | Location TBA
RSVP required for carpooling | Bring: sunscreen, snacks, adventurous spirit!
"Adventures are better when shared with couple friends."
Info & RSVP: www.CouplesReconnect.org |
BACK TO SCHOOL, BACK TO ROUTINE—DON'T FORGET "US"
September brings schedules, routines, and the return of busy. In the rush of getting everyone else where they need to be, don't forget to invest in "us."
CORE (Couples Reconnect) returns to regular gatherings with a Back to Routine, Prioritizing Us theme. We'll focus on keeping marriage at the center even when life gets hectic, and we'll welcome any new couples interested in joining our community.
This Month's Theme: Priorities, Time Management & Protecting "Us"
Suggested Activity: Schedule weekly couple time on the calendar—treat it like any other important appointment
Special Feature: New couple welcome! Bring friends who'd benefit from couple community
CORE is your monthly marriage investment—90 minutes that keep you connected, supported, and growing together. All married couples welcome, whether you're returning after summer break or trying CORE for the first time.
Expect prayer, practical marriage discussion, private couple dialogue, and connection with couples who prioritize what you prioritize.
September Gathering: [Day/Time] | Parish Hall
Childcare available | Bring another couple—they'll thank you!
"When life gets busy, marriage needs attention most."
Info: www.CouplesReconnect.org |
HARVEST SEASON—REAP WHAT YOU'VE SOWN
October invites gratitude for the harvest. What has your marriage harvested this year? What seeds are you planting for next season?
CORE (Couples Reconnect) gathers for a Harvest Celebration & Gratitude Gathering. We'll share what we're grateful for in our marriages, celebrate growth, and look ahead to continuing the work of loving well.
This Month's Theme: Gratitude, Reflection & Celebrating Growth
Suggested Activity: Share three things you're grateful for in your spouse
Special Feature: Harvest potluck—bring a favorite fall dish!
CORE is your monthly couple community where marriages are strengthened through prayer, discussion, accountability, and friendship. Open to all married couples—especially those who've experienced Rediscovery Retrouvaille, Six Weeks to Us, or Marriage Encounter and want ongoing support.
This month we'll reflect on how far we've come, celebrate growth, and renew our commitment to keep investing in marriage.
Harvest Gathering: [Day/Time] | Parish Hall
Childcare provided | Fall potluck | Cozy, grateful atmosphere
"Gratitude transforms good marriages into great ones."
Info: www.CouplesReconnect.org |
THANKSGIVING SEASON—GRATEFUL FOR MARRIAGE
November calls us to count blessings. Your marriage—even with its challenges—is a profound blessing worth celebrating.
CORE (Couples Reconnect) hosts our annual Grateful & Blessed Thanksgiving Gathering. Bring your favorite Thanksgiving dish, your spouse, and hearts ready to give thanks for the gift of marriage.
This Month's Theme: Thanksgiving, Blessings & Covenant Love
Suggested Activity: Create a "gratitude jar" together—add notes throughout the year
Special Feature: Thanksgiving potluck feast! Bring your best dish to share
CORE is a monthly gathering where married couples support each other, grow together, and celebrate the beautiful, challenging, grace-filled journey of marriage. All couples welcome—whether you're veterans of marriage enrichment programs or new to intentional couple community.
We'll share a meal, give thanks together, focus on blessings in our marriages, and enjoy the warmth of couple friendship.
Thanksgiving Gathering: [Day/Time] | Parish Hall
Childcare available | Thanksgiving potluck | Hearts of gratitude
"The best harvest is the love you've cultivated together."
Info: www.CouplesReconnect.org |
CHRIST IS BORN—LET LOVE BE BORN ANEW
Advent prepares us for Christ's coming. Christmas celebrates His arrival. And in the midst of the season, your marriage deserves celebration too.
CORE (Couples Reconnect) hosts our annual Christmas Party & Marriage Celebration! Wear your festive best, bring a dessert to share, and let's celebrate the season and each other.
This Month's Theme: Incarnation, Presence & the Gift of Each Other
Suggested Activity: Exchange small, meaningful gifts—something that says "I see you, I love you"
Special Feature: Christmas party! Dessert potluck, festive atmosphere, maybe even caroling!
CORE is your couple community—a place to celebrate, support, and grow in marriage all year long. Whether you've attended Rediscovery Retrouvaille, Six Weeks to Us, Marriage Encounter, or are simply looking for couple connection—you're invited to the celebration!
We'll pray together, briefly reflect on presence in marriage (inspired by Christ's presence with us), and mostly just celebrate this season and each other.
Christmas Celebration: [Day/Time] | Parish Hall
Childcare provided | Festive attire encouraged | Dessert potluck
"The greatest gift you can give your spouse is your presence."
Info: www.CouplesReconnect.org |
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