Apostle James Kofi Abbrey, Advocates for Informed Marriage Practices
The Executive Director of Holistic and Training Consult and a professional counselor Apostle James Kofi Abbrey, has highlighted the critical need for comprehensive education on the practice of marriage among Ghanaians, particularly the youth.
In a side-line interview with GPCC NEWS Apostle Abbrey, at a Capacity Building Seminar for GPCC heads of Churches at The Apostolic Church- Ghana, Tamale Central Assembly on 18th July 2024, he emphasize that many young people rush into marriages without fully understanding the principles and responsibilities that come with it.
“There’s a practice in the theory. How many understand the truth behind the practice of marriage?” Apostle Abbrey questioned. He pointed out that many individuals enter into marriage simply because they see others doing it, without grasping the deeper meaning and purpose. “They just see others doing it, and they do the same without understanding what they are doing,” he noted.
The Role of the Church in Marriage Education
Apostle Abbrey who is also a member of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) called on the church to take a proactive role in educating its members about marriage. He stressed the importance of imparting knowledge and understanding to those considering marriage, so they can engage in the practice with a solid foundation. “How can the church educate them, make them understand this marriage they are talking about, so that they don’t just practice it, but practice it with knowledge and understanding?” he asked.
Advice to Ghanaian Youth
Addressing the youth, Apostle Abbrey warned against the notion that marriage is merely a matter of reaching a certain age. “Many Ghanaian youth are rushing into marriages thinking, ‘I’m of age, I need to marry.’ Yes, you may be of age, but marriage is not about age. It’s about maturity, knowledge, and understanding,” he explained.
Apostle Abbrey highlighted the importance of emotional intelligence in successful marriages, outlining its four basic aspects: understanding yourself, regulating yourself, understanding others, and entering into long-term relationships with others. “Emotional intelligence is a skill,” he stated. “So if you don’t know how to handle your emotions, how can you handle the emotions of others.”
The Need for Pre-Marital Counseling
To ensure that young people are well-prepared for marriage, Apostle Abbrey advocated for comprehensive pre-marital counseling. “Everyone should go through some level of pre-marital counseling and education to be taught and equipped to marry well,” he urged. This education would provide the necessary tools and insights for individuals to build strong, healthy marriages based on mutual understanding and respect.
Apostle James Abbrey’s message underscores the importance of informed and educated approaches to marriage. By emphasizing the role of emotional intelligence and advocating for thorough pre-marriage counseling, he aims to help the youth navigate the complexities of marriage with greater wisdom and understanding.
Source: GPCC News
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