They say a successful marriage is about falling in love over and over – with the same person. This year, the Diocese’s first-ever Valentine’s Date Night brought together couples who do just that: choosing each other again and again, and celebrating the journey that began with the Diocese’s Marriage Preparation Weekend and SmartLoving Engaged Online courses.
Hosted by the Diocese’s Mission Enhancement Team (MET) on the eve of Valentine’s Day, a day of romance celebrated by people all over the world, around 20 couples gathered to enjoy a romantic, fun and intimate evening; complete with flowers, chocolates, an ambient atmosphere, music and sumptuous food – as well as laughter, games and cocktails.
Walking together
The event went beyond the celebration of Valentine’s Day. It aimed to strengthen bonds and build relationships, not only between couples but also with the Catholic Church in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains.
For many couples, their Catholic faith remains a cornerstone of their marriage vocation. As such, the opportunity for accompaniment throughout married lives – as families grow and age – marks a significant opportunity to walk together as a Church, listen and support couples on their journey.
Image: Alfie Ramirez/ Diocese of Parramatta
MET facilitator Marisa Vanderhout said it is common for couples married within the Diocese to reconnect with their faith and the Church as they begin to grow their families – particularly when they seek Baptism for their children.
“We wanted to strengthen that connection and create a space where couples could reconnect, not only with their faith, but also with the facilitators who journeyed with them during their pre-marriage course,” Marisa said.
From prayerful reflection to friendship, games and laughter
The evening began in prayer and reflection, focusing on gratitude for God’s many blessings and inviting God to be present in every conversation and activity. This moment of prayer beautifully prefaced what would be one of the key messages of the evening: ‘Keep God at the centre of married life’.
Laughter soon filled the room as playful challenges tested how well spouses truly knew one another, sparking friendly competition and plenty of happy banter. Romantic trivia, nostalgic love stories, and shared memories created a warm atmosphere of connection and joy.
Image: Alfie Ramirez/ Diocese of Parramatta
Prizes of chocolates added to the celebratory spirit, while an ongoing Bingo challenge encouraged participants to mingle and discover new things about one another.
A reflection on marriage
Marisa shared a very practical and heartfelt message about what she had learned over the past 34 years as a married woman. She challenged the common idea that marriage is always a “50–50 partnership”.
“Sometimes, it’s 60-40, other times its 20-80. But there will be times when you or your partner may need 100 per cent from each other.”
Image: Alfie Ramirez/ Diocese of Parramatta
Marisa said marriage is about recognising “when your partner has only 20 per cent to give, can you give the other 80 per cent?”
She concluded saying, “When neither of you have anything left to give, that is when you turn to God for strength, guidance and support.”
Letters to one’s younger self
Pre-marriage facilitator and speaker Declan Sally reflected on his 28 years of marriage to his wife, Joan. He spoke about growth, forgiveness, humility, and the importance of keeping God at the centre of married life.
“When you keep God first, you remember that marriage is not just about getting through life together, but about walking hand in hand toward heaven.”
He emphasised that love requires skills, not just feelings. Referring to principles found in The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John Gottman, he encouraged couples to learn how to grow together, apologise well, listen without defensiveness, and repair quickly after disagreements.
Image: Alfie Ramirez/ Diocese of Parramatta
His message was both practical and spiritual: marriage thrives when couples choose peace over pride, steward their resources wisely, remain present to one another, and grow together in faith.
“Marriage will shape you more than you expect. It will teach you what really matters and quietly strip away what doesn’t.
“Remember this, you can’t find infinite happiness in finite things. Success, possessions and recognition fade (but) love, character and commitment, endure,” he said.
“Be kind to yourself and learn to love yourself. The way you treat yourself will shape how you show up for your wife.”
He also reflected on raising children and the importance of allowing them to thrive in a loving and caring environment.
Image: Alfie Ramirez/ Diocese of Parramatta
“A safe, stable home with parents who love each other is one of the greatest gifts we can give to them, more than achievements or possessions, children need security, consistency and love, and that starts with you.”
Lastly, Declan shared a very simple and practical word of advice: “Be Goofy: Never lose the ability to laugh and be silly together.”
Faith, fellowship, and sweet moments
The evening concluded with dessert, coffee, and unhurried conversation. Couples were invited to relax, enjoy the cheese platters and sweets, and continue building friendships with each other.
The Valentine’s celebration was more than just a social event – It was a beautiful reminder that while marriage requires skill and commitment, it is also a journey filled with joy, love, and the Grace of God.
The event shares the Diocesan Pastoral Plan priority of Community and its objective to be a Church that walks together. Visit Synodality to learn more.
View the photos on Flickr.
