HAPPY FATHER’S DAY to the men out there! I have something to ask of you today. If there was one thing that you could do to virtually divorce-proof your marriage, would you be willing to do it? This activity has been described as being more intimate than the marital embrace. Do I have your buy-in?

Research has shown that couples that pray together are happier, more joy-filled and have stronger relationships. Are you still with me?

“Praying together is the most powerful predictor of marital happiness that researchers have yet discovered.” Andrew Greeley, Faithful Attraction (New York: TOR 1991)

“Research has shown that couples who pray or read the Bible together daily and attend Church together weekly have a divorce rate of less than 1 in every 1105 marriages.” Retrouvaille International Handbook, 2005

“Pray with my wife?!!” You may be thinking, “I would do anything for my wife, but I don’t know about praying; it is so intimidating and daunting.” Trust me when I say that the benefits of praying with your spouse far outweigh any trepidation you may be feeling.

I recommend that as the spiritual leader of your home, that you take the initiative to pray with your wife daily. It will change your life. To help you, I suggest that you check out the Couple Prayer Series. The Couple Prayer Series was developed by Bob and Kathy Ovies. Bob is a Permanent Deacon in the Archdiocese of Detroit. The series helps married couples experience a deeper love for God and for one another through learning ways of praying together. The series is available in a CD format or if you live in Southeastern Michigan, it is being offered several times a year at parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Detroit.

As fathers, we are to represent the heavenly Father here on earth, especially in our families. Does your life give witness to the Father’s love? As you grow closer to God in prayer, you will grow closer to your wife. You have such an opportunity to give living witness to the Father’s love for His children. Prayer is a way to open yourself to the graces that God wants to pour into your marriage. Be a conduit of His love, grace, mercy and forgiveness for your wife and family.

So what do you say? Do you want to improve intimacy in your marriage? Give praying with your spouse a try. What do you have to lose?

“Holy Spirit, make my heart open to the word of God, make my heart open to goodness, make my heart open to the beauty of God every day.” Pope Francis, The Church of Mercy

May the Lord bless you richly, now and always.