Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Brazzaville (Fides Service)- “The Movement of Catholic Spouses is a form of apostolate which has attracted me since I was a novice” said Sr Rolande Milandou, a young Franciscan Missionary of Mary an animator of this Movement in the Republic of Congo. “Under the Communist regime Congo, 1965 - 1992 many young people were forced to join movements which prohibited them from going to Church” the nun said. “Religious values were in danger of disappearing”.
“In this dramatic situation the Movement of Christian Spouses was started to promote and safeguard education in families to Christian values” said Sr Rolande. “The members of the Movement can be married or engaged couples. Once a week we meet to read the Gospel and reflect on our experience of life. Once a month all the groups meet for formation on a theme chosen for the year”.
In Pointe-Noire members make an annual three day retreat during which they may receive the sacrament of reconciliation and learn to dialogue which improves the life of the couple. They are also taught the rules for harmony in the family: love and mutual acceptance and respect, good manners, frank dialogue, reconciliation and forgiveness and pardon, humility, responsible sexuality, communication and prayer.
“I am happy to work with married couples and I thank God for this opportunity to experience the joys and troubles of families. I help couples to reach a better understanding of the Sacrament of Matrimony and the many graces it offer to spouses, children and society” Sr Rolande concluded. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 19/10/2005 righe 24 parole 302)
