This is not a typical scene from Eastenders. Far from the Mitchell brothers having a bust up and Angie and Den yelling behind the bar at the Queen Vic (ok, it’s been a while since I watched it!) Familylife were aiming for scenes of couples respecting each other and listening to their partner’s point of view, and that’s what we got.
On March 19th, the team headed down to Walthamstow to share relationship principles from the bible and practical tools for growing together with the 26 couples who came along to Blackhorse Road Baptist Church. The atmosphere was relaxed and fun as the Arkells and the Daniels shared stories and good relationship guidelines.
The couples who attended were enthusiastic and, as some remarked, pleasantly surprised (there’s always a few who feel nervous as to what the day might involve) and at the end of the day went away pleased that they had invested time in their most important relationship.
One couple commented:
“It has been very helpful. You will leave with concrete ideas about what to do for your relationship.”…
And another:
“A chance to get away, be challenged and start a new kind of conversation with the one you love.”
The team left the day exhausted, but happy and excited about the ripple effects of the day as over a dozen couples indicated interest in being part of a Together group.
A successful first visit to London’s East End…..and no one got punched in the face!
Jo Arkell 2016
