Churches offer relationship courses: ‘We believe God invented marriage’

Danish churches in Haderslev are hosting free relationship courses for couples, arguing that faith and marriage go hand in hand, DR reports.

Three evening sessions, led by a professional therapist, will focus on communication and conflict resolution. Sognepræst Erik Holmgaard of Gl. Haderslev Church said the idea emerged after premarital counselling sessions, where couples asked for broader relationship support.

“Marriage is far more complex than getting a driver’s licence—yet we only require one conversation before people commit,” Holmgaard told DR. “We believe God created the concept of partnership, so strengthening relationships fits naturally within the church’s role.”

The course, open to all couples regardless of need, is framed as “preventive maintenance” rather than crisis intervention. “Like a car, relationships benefit from regular check-ups, even when nothing seems wrong,” Holmgaard added.

Therapist Inger Margrethe Jørgensen will lead the sessions, emphasising constructive disagreement. “Differences can enrich a relationship—if we focus less on being right,” she said.

While the Haderslev initiative is local, similar faith-based programmes exist nationwide, including Bedre Sammen in Copenhagen and PREP workshops under Folkekirkens Familiestøtte. Holmgaard, married for 32 years, acknowledged his own relationship’s challenges: “Sometimes I think I know what my wife is thinking. Other times, I don’t understand her at all.”

The course includes group discussions and exercises but no one-on-one therapy. Participants needing further support will be referred to professional services.