“The Holy Spirit helps us to look back on our story with gratitude and kindness,” says Marie, 52 (who, like other interviewees in this article, requested anonymity), with emotion in her voice from the choir of Sainte-Marie des Batignolles church in the 17th arrondissement of Paris. On October 13, 2025, candles lined the floor, marking the path from the nave to the choir. The atmosphere was subdued to welcome 40 couples who had come to nurture their relationship “in God’s presence.”
“The sisters of Lisieux are also praying for you,” the ceremony leader assured the audience before the liturgical songs. A couple in their thirties shared tips for spending quality time together, such as the babysitter they hire on the 13th of every month. Each participating couple then filled out a questionnaire about their plans, activities and marital challenges.
For the past year, three couples from the parish have organized these evenings, called “Nous” (“Us”), described as a “breathing space.” “Married couples told us they were well-prepared, but left on their own when things got complicated,” Marie explained. The parish priest supported the project. “The priest ends up providing aftercare for marriage: people come to talk to him about their difficulties, ask him to pray for them. It’s a heavy burden,” added the parishioner.
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