The Marriage Ministry hosted an encouraging and impactful conference for couples on April 24–25, 2026, built around the biblical principles found in the book Love & Respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs. Twenty-four couples gathered for a weekend of teaching, fellowship, meals, and honest conversations centered on strengthening marriage through better communication, deeper understanding, and Christ-centered love.
Rooted in Ephesians 5:33, the conference explored the powerful truth that “unconditional respect is as powerful for a husband as unconditional love is for a wife.” Throughout the weekend, couples were reminded that marriage often struggles not because love is absent, but because husbands and wives can misunderstand one another’s deepest needs. As the teaching emphasized, “His love motivates her respect. Her respect motivates his love.”
Drawing from Ephesians 5:20–31, couples reflected on God’s design for marriage as a picture of Christ and the church. Husbands were encouraged to love sacrificially and tenderly, while wives were encouraged to communicate respect and honor. The conference also examined the cycle that can develop when a husband feels disrespected and responds in ways that feel unloving, while a wife who feels unloved may react with criticism or frustration. Understanding these patterns gave many couples practical insight into how conflict can be replaced with grace, patience, and mutual care.
Participants appreciated not only the biblical teaching, but also the warmth and laughter shared throughout the weekend during the dessert reception, breakfast, and lunch fellowship times. Several couples shared how meaningful the experience was for them.
“We absolutely loved the conference,” shared Mike and Andrea Harris. “To understand the difference and the importance of how men and women interpret each other was very eye opening. We’ve put into practice some of the action steps and it’s truly been a blessing to our marriage.”
Scott and Jen Gargana admitted they arrived somewhat skeptical after 26 years of marriage, but left deeply encouraged. “The program was humorous and engaging,” they said. “I think my biggest takeaway was the reminder that what I say isn’t always what she hears and vice versa.”
Lynna and David Donnor also appreciated the relatable nature of the teaching. “Even though it was made 20 years ago, it still was applicable,” they shared. “It was a good refresher course for us personally.”
Marriage is a lifelong journey of learning how to love as Christ loves. Conferences like this serve as an important reminder that healthy marriages are built intentionally through humility, understanding, forgiveness, and daily acts of love and respect.
Whether you are newly married or have been together for decades, investing in your marriage is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your spouse, your family, and your walk with Christ. We encourage every couple to prayerfully seek ways to grow together in love, respect, and understanding. Keep an eye out for future Marriage Ministry events and opportunities to connect with other couples pursuing God’s design for marriage!