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We started the week with an emphasis on marriage with Pastor Emile Maxi, Ontario Conference Executive Secretary, under the theme "Until Debt do us Part." This focus continued into the afternoon Adventist Youth (AY) program. Couples benefited from a unique presentation of 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, illustrated in a negative light, demonstrating what happens when couples do the opposite of what the Bible teaches. This approach helped highlight the importance of biblical principles in relationships. During the AY session, couples also had the opportunity to ask questions in a more intimate and interactive setting.

Throughout the week, pastors from several churches, including Pastors Myrie and Wallace, presented on a variety of important topics via Zoom. These included Staying the Course, Trust and Forgiveness, Youth and Young Adult Issues, Family and Emotional Health, and Conflict Management. Each evening, approximately 80 devices were logged into the sessions.

Other churches, including Mississauga, Scarborough, and Brampton, also participated by facilitating the preliminaries each night. In addition, individuals from the Caribbean and the United States joined the Zoom sessions, making the experience even more enriching and diverse.

The week continued on February 21, with a sermon by Church Elder Michael Philpotts titled "When Grief meets God". This thought-provoking message reminded everyone of God’s greatness and His presence in times of loss and hardship.

The AY program that followed, titled "Getting to Know You" and "Mentorship Across Generations," focused on building understanding between different age groups within the church. Individuals were placed into generational groups—Generation Alpha, Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X and Baby Boomers—and asked to discuss four questions:

• What kinds of generational differences—values, communication styles, or expectations—do you notice between yourself and other age groups?”
• If yes, what would you say those gaps are? Please elaborate where necessary.
• What are some things you wish other generations understood about your generation that you feel they often overlook or misunderstand?
• “What kinds of support or understanding do you wish other generations would offer to help you feel more heard, respected, or supported?”

Each group reported back to the larger gathering. Questions were asked, leading to a better understanding across generations. The conversation had begun, and the gap was not as wide as before. It was agreed that mentorship should be postponed to a later date and that they should continue to get to know each other on a deeper level.

The week culminated with the relaunch of the Couples Club, with thirty-two (32) in attendance. The group looks forward to using the book The Will to Heal by Emile Maxi as the foundational guide for couples. There will be events such as weekend getaways, dinner and dance events, nature walks, and discussions on topics such as headship, romance, health and wellness, trust and forgiveness, among others.

Overall, it was an inspiring, thought-provoking, and Spirit-filled week. We look forward to seeing lives transformed as we continue this journey together.

Phil & Lorraine Blackwood
Family Life Leaders,
Ruth Seventh-day Adventist Church