In the Orthodox Church, marriage is a path to salvation, not just a life partnership. However, many couples enter dating and marriage without the necessary skills for either goal.
In this episode, Paula Marchman, an Orthodox couples therapist and premarital educator, brings practical tools for dating, communication, and conflict resolution grounded in the theology of Christian marriage.
The work starts before dating even begins with honest reflection and spiritual preparation. Once we’re actively seeking a partner, intentionality and honest conversations, which can be facilitated by programs like Journey of Marriage, give couples space to get to know each other and assess real compatibility before making a commitment. Paula also covers the most common reasons people resist commitment altogether and how to overcome them, as well as what the Church teaches about the proper orientation of our hearts and our partnerships toward God.
Paula Marchman is a licensed professional counselor and the Managing Director of Family Life Ministry for the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Atlanta. She practices Christian psychotherapy, is a Level 2 Gottman-certified couples therapist, and facilitates the Journey of Marriage premarital seminars.
About The Show
Direct & Unapologetic is a series of candid conversations about topics that matter to Orthodox Christians and seekers. We’re talking about Addiction, Grief, Relationships, Family Conflict, Mental Health as well Spiritual Discipline, Engaging with Contemporary Culture, Conversion, Prayer, Passing on the Faith and a deeper understanding of our Scripture.
This program is being made possible through a generous donation from the George and Judy Marcus Family Foundation.
See all episodes and download promotional materials HERE.
