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Episode 147: Handling Sundays with Natasha Helfer

In this episode of Marriage on a Tightrope, Allan and Kattie dive deep into the complexities of mixed faith marriages. From their personal journey to actionable strategies, they offer support and insight for couples navigating differing beliefs within their relationships.

💡 What We Cover in This Episode

1. Mixed Faith Marriage Challenges

  • Faith Transition: Allan shares his transition from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, while Kattie remained a believing member. They open up about how this shift led to imbalances and tension in their relationship.
  • Lack of Resources: With limited support available early in their journey, they created Marriage on a Tightrope to fill the gap for other couples.
  • Sunday Struggles: They candidly discuss how Sundays became a flashpoint for conflict around church attendance and family activities.
  • Loss of Spiritual Intimacy: The absence of shared spiritual practices created distance, forcing them to find new ways to connect.

2. Strategies & Resources for Mixed Faith Marriages

  • Marriage on a Tightrope Workshop

    • A 7-week course (6 required sessions + 1 optional Q&A) designed for couples navigating mixed faith dynamics.
    • Topics include communication strategies, building trust, parenting approaches, and managing spiritual differences.
    • 🗓️ Next Workshop Starts: Sunday, April 6th | 7–9 PM MST
    • 💻 Format: Live Zoom sessions + recordings available for flexibility.
    • 🔗 Register: tightropemarriage.org (Click "Join our workshop")

  • Communication Techniques

    • Soft Start: Initiate conversations gently to avoid defensiveness.
    • Own Your Role: Recognize and take responsibility in moments of conflict.
    • Express Emotions: Open up to foster empathy and deeper understanding.
    • Emotional Regulation: Tools to stay grounded and manage physiological reactions during tough discussions.

  • Parenting in a Mixed Faith Marriage

    • Encourage your children’s autonomy in their spiritual journey.
    • Balance your expectations with respect for your child's beliefs.
    • Explore diverse rituals that honor both parents' perspectives.
    • ✨ Resource Highlight: Uplift Kids for value-based, non-religious lessons.

3. Personal Stories & Experiences

  • Allan & Kattie reflect on their own mixed faith journey, particularly around parenting and Sundays.
  • Natasha Helfer shares a heartfelt story about her teenage son’s choice to attend church as a way to connect with his late father, underscoring the importance of safe, open family environments.