A Wisconsin nonprofit aimed at bolstering the institution of marriage is working with local pastors to establish the first so-called community marriage agreements in Milwaukee and Waukesha.
Under the pacts, participating congregations agree to impose waiting periods for couples, administer assessments to gauge relationships’ strengths and conflict potential, and offer training and enrichment programs before and after marriage.
Supporters say such agreements benefit those religious communities and society as a whole.
"Our mission is to uphold the value of marriage and teach people the skills to form lifelong, healthy relationships," said Susan Dutton Freund, executive director of Green Bay-based Foundation for a Great Marriage, which will host an informational program for clergy July 1.