From June 12–13, 2026, the Family Center of the Latin Patriarchate in Galilee welcomed young couples for a spiritual retreat entitled "The Garment of Love." Organized by Fr. Ramez Twal, Youth and Family Chaplain in Galilee, and Brother Bashir Mansour, social worker at the Family Center, together with the Family Committee, the initiative sought to accompany couples who are in the first seven years of their marriage—a decisive stage in building a Christian family. A parallel program for children enabled parents to participate fully in the retreat.
Growing Together in Faith and Love
At a time when families around the world face unprecedented challenges, the retreat bore witness to the Church's commitment to accompanying young couples as they build the foundations of their married life. Guided by the words of St. Paul—"Above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts" (Colossians 3:14–15)—the retreat invited participants into a journey of prayer, conferences, personal reflection, and dialogue. Led by Fr. Abd El-Masih Fahim and Sr. Monika Kremer, the spiritual program offered reflections on Christian marriage and the vocation of the family in the life of the Church.
A Grace-Filled Beginning
At the close of the retreat, couples shared heartfelt testimonies, describing the experience as a source of renewal, encouragement, and practical guidance for family life. For many, it was their first spiritual retreat, helping them discover how to "put on the garment of love" in the ordinary realities of married life and inspiring them to continue their journey rooted in faith and mutual commitment.
The retreat—the first initiative of its kind in Galilee for young families with children—reflects the Latin Patriarchate's ongoing commitment to supporting Christian families and strengthening their witness in both the Church and society.
