Editorial

The health of any society depends considerably on the family which provides us with the security and stability to face the challenges that one has to face in life.

Marriage, even non-Christian marriage, is based on a pledge, the momentous and far-reaching covenant between a man and woman who commit themselves to love and support each other through thick and thin, to face the ups and downs which inevitably will come their way.

The family unit is vital for the upbringing of children and the transmission of sound values which, in turn, ensure that our future men and women will do their share in sustaining and building up their own families and community.

It is therefore understandable that the Church has always recognised the great importance of sound families, as indeed evidenced in the Archbishop's speech on the feast of Christ the King. With that consideration in mind, the Cana Movement was established by the far-sighted Mgr Charles Vella with the full support of the late Archbishop Michael Gonzi.

Fifty years have brought on huge changes in Maltese society. The conservative and social traditional climate that prevailed in the not-too-distant past, did not question the life-long loyalty and the sacrifices demanded of one's marriage vows.

Unfortunately, the changes of the past 50 years have eroded and battered our time-honoured values and the culture of individualism and hedonism is tearing the fabric of family life apart.

However, it must be recognised that not all social changes have been negative. Too often in the past, couples embarked on married life without any preparation, often in very difficult economic circumstances and very grave and unjust situations were suffered in silence. With this awareness in mind, the Cana Movement has been a pioneer in marriage preparation and family support.

More than ever before, due to the relentless secularisation of society, married couples are finding it more and more complex and difficult to cope with their relationships. This is borne out by the fact that more and more marriages are breaking down.

It is therefore welcome news that the present Cana director, Fr Joseph Mizzi, announced that 19 committed people will soon qualify as professional counsellors in family therapy. This is a confirmation of Cana's ongoing commitment.

Fr Mizzi clarified that although the movement had a Christian identity and ethos, besides the religious aspects, it also took into consideration the psychological aspect of relationships in strengthening the marriage institution.

It is refreshing to note that standards are high. The candidates already have tertiary education. Besides being prepared to dedicate themselves to further study, they will even offer their services as professional counsellors on a voluntary basis.

The importance of investment in professional training and the need of qualified counsellors cannot be stressed enough. Last year, over 750 new cases sought help and this year the numbers are even higher.

This may be a positive sign and an indication that couples facing difficulties in their marriage are acknowledging the usefulness of seeking professional support to salvage their relationship. The Cana Movement has a good reputation in this sphere and rightly deserves the confidence people have in its services.

Society owes the Cana Movement all the support it can muster.

It is in our country's interest and that of future generations that no effort is spared to uphold and safeguard the integrity of the family.