On October 31 and November 1, 2025, the “Living Stones” Church in Sacramento hosted a two-day seminar titled “The Purpose of Marriage.” The speaker was Andrey Rezunenko — pastor, family counselor, and author of several books on Christian marriage. The event drew a large audience: young people, married couples, and those preparing for family life.
Friday evening was dedicated to youth as well as anyone interested in the topic.
The seminar began in a warm, cozy atmosphere with worship and friendly conversation over coffee.
Before introducing the main topic, Andrey addressed the young people with a question:
“Why get married at all when there are so many divorces around us?”
He reminded them:
“If you are children of God, then your marriage is not a union of two, but of three. The hope of your marriage is not in your partner. It is in the Third One — the Invisible One — who has become part of your union.”
Andrey emphasized that the biblical purpose of marriage is not merely the happiness of two people, but a reflection of the relationship between Christ and the Church (Eph. 5:25–32).
At the end of the evening, young people were invited to ask questions, such as:
- How can I know that this is “my” person?
- What should I do if the feelings fade?
- Is it permissible to marry an unbeliever?
The speaker answered openly and honestly, noting that a marriage without Christ is a union of two egoists, but with God it becomes a mission. After the main session, participants continued discussing the topics raised.
Saturday’s session was focused on married couples. By 9 AM, coffee and refreshments were prepared for the attendees. Andrey led three main sessions:
- “The Marriage Triangle” — God at the center, spouses at the corners. The closer each one is to God, the closer they are to each other.
- “Roles in Marriage: Not Stereotypes, but Scripture” — the husband as a loving leader; the wife as a helper who honors her husband.
- “Conflicts as Fuel for Growth” — disagreements are inevitable, but forgiveness and prayer can transform them into blessings.
After lunch, families discussed what they had heard and shared their reflections. This was followed by a Q&A session. The questions were difficult and deeply personal. Andrey reminded everyone: without God, a family cannot be properly built. If you feel overwhelmed, reach out to your church leaders for help — don’t wait until it’s too late.
The seminar concluded with a united prayer for families.
This event became a great encouragement for all who attended. The takeaway is clear:
The purpose of marriage is not to find the perfect person, but — with God’s help — to become a perfect team for His glory.
Alina Chernev
