Couples Say I Do Again

Story by Liz Bailey

The second annual Mountain View Conference Marriage Retreat, held at Valley Vista Adventist Center in Huttonsville, W.Va., brought together couples from across the conference for a weekend of renewal, connection and growth. Guest speakers included José L. Vázquez, Columbia Union Conference vice president for Ministries Development, and his wife, Sonia.

Couples arrived Friday evening to a beautiful dining room and dinner prepared for them. They later attended the first of multiple weekend sessions. Topics included healthy conflict resolution, intimacy and connection, finances and parenting, and spiritual connection.

“One thing I learned that was very helpful was how the opposite sex perceives gifts and affection,” states Amy Fullmer, who attended with her husband, Rich. They are members of the Parkersburg (W.Va.) church.

Apart from the sessions, the couples shared in fun and fellowship. Activities included creating a date night jar together, enjoying a friendly newlywed game and playing at a local bowling alley Saturday evening.

The weekend concluded Sunday morning with a ceremony in which couples met at the altar to renew their vows, offering them a fresh start in their commitment to each other and to God.