New Air Station Chapel programs strengthen relationships

Photo By Gunnery Sgt. Courtney Glen White | Lance Cpl. Sam Morris, a motor vehicle operator with Marine Wing Support Squadron 273 and his wife Kristy Morris fill out a couples handbook during a prevention and relationship enhancement program at the chapel aboard the Air Station, Jan. 27. The workbooks had pages full of exercises to do together as a couple.  

BEAUFORT, SOUTH CAROLINA, UNITED STATES

02.04.2010

Story by Lance Cpl. Courtney Glen White 

Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort

The Air Station Chapel held a two-day skills-based workshop for couples aboard the Air Station who want to build a stronger relationship with their significant other, Jan. 27-28.

The Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program focused on enhancing communication and problem-solving skills, the difference in life views between men and women, keeping fun in the relationship, expressing concerns constructively and examining hidden issues and expectations.

The classes are encouraged for couples who are married, engaged or even just seriously dating. Free childcare is available with the required advanced registration.

This workshop included group exercises, open discussions, time for couples to discuss each strategy and work together to learn new methods of problem solving.

"It is important for couples to interact with each other, so that way they can learn from their mistakes," said Navy Lt. Jennifer Bowden, Marine Wing Support Squadron 273 chaplain. "We teach them specific techniques and make sure they have time during the program to practice."

Each couple received a folder full of workbooks and information on how to have a successful relationship, a book called "Fighting for Your Marriage" and other materials to help couples maintain a healthy relationship.

"The materials taught and given in this class help couples learn how to work out issues in a healthy way," said Lance Cpl. Viviana Londono, a Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron administrative clerk. "(My fiance and I) have learned a lot of things that we can use in the future as a family."

The PREP classes are given at bases across the U.S. as a relationship enhancer or a preparation course for those planning on getting married.

"The main purpose of this workshop is to teach how important communications is," Bowden explained. "Everyone can strengthen their relationship no matter how strong it is."

For more information on future workshops and schedules of future PREP classes, contact Petty Officer 1st Class Shaquita Brice, the Air Station religious program specialist at 228-7775 or [e-mail], or visit the Marine Corps Community Services Web site at www.mccs-sc.com for a schedule of upcoming classes.

• Date Taken: 02.04.2010
• Date Posted: 02.04.2010 22:03
• Story ID: 44941
• Location: BEAUFORT, SOUTH CAROLINA, US