Guide to Counseling Cohabiting Couples

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Guide to Counseling Cohabiting Couples
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Experiment Failed

• 50 -100 higher divorce rate

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Defining the Problem

• Destructive behavior
• Decision to contracept
• Public demonstration vs. goods of marriage

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Defining the Goal

• See vision of marriage
• Restoration
• Cease destructive behavior
• Propose way of life
• Begin sacramental life
• Marriage as healing
• Proceed with preparation

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Pastoral Objectives

• 1. Live apart in chastity receiving sacraments
• 2. Separate quarters in chastity continence
• 3. Help couples establish prayer life and
  continue counseling

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Case Against Cohabitation

• Distrust
• Impaired discernment
• Compromise of Faith
• Limited communication

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Effects of Contraception

• Couple
• Society
• Marriage

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Pastoral Care

• Ascertaining cohabitation
• Addressing the issue
• Possible lines of approach
• Understanding cohabiting couples
• Dealing with defensiveness
• Determining the circumstances