Steve and Bridget Patton
hold master's degrees in theology and counseling and serve as family life ministers for the Diocese of Sacramento.
Marriage Matters
He Says: We Love Each Other but Are So Different
The notion that “opposites attract” is a paradox.
He and She Say: We’re Dreading Going Home to Either of Our Families for the Holidays
Rejoice that you feel this discomfort; it’s a sign your marriage is healthy.
He Says: Now That We Can Gather Again as an Extended Family, I Want to Invite the Big Group for Thanksgiving.
This holiday season is a great opportunity to establish a new normal for your holiday traditions.
He says: I lost my job and have not been able to find another that pays me what I think I’m worth
Regardless of its pay, what kind of work would most interest you most and draw upon your talents?
She says: He wants to invest in cryptocurrency, but I feel it’s too risky
Your goal is to get on the right page.
She says: I thought he would stop playing video games after we got married
It’s not uncommon for engaged people to hope that “things will be different once we get married.”
He Says: I Don’t Want Her Brother to Babysit
Most people understand that language which might be OK in one setting may not be in another.
She Says: I Want to Travel Now That We’re Retired
Entering into retirement can be just as fun – and just as stressful – as entering into marriage.
She Says: I Don’t Think We Have to Share All of Our Financial Assets
With modern couples, both are used to earning and managing their own money.
What’s Sacramental About Marriage?
Unlike every other sacrament, matrimony originates in nature rather than in a distinct creative act of Christ.
She Says: Sometimes I Snap at Him
Reflex snapping, like any form of spontaneous, unwanted behavior, is not the real problem.
She Says: I Need My “Alone Time”
Quality alone time is good for our mental and spiritual health, and helps us to be better companions.
She Says: Our Marriage Takes a Back Seat to Hanging Out With the Guys
He says he wants to keep his friends as well as his wife.
He Says: She Is Always Bragging About Her Family History
The desire to hear and tell family stories arises from our deepest needs to know who we are.
She Says: I’m Always the One to Give in
He says: It’s her choice; she hates conflict
He Says: We Hardly Ever See Each Other
She says: My job is very demanding.
HE SAYS: Let’s do online school again
Our kids were home this entire school year with online schooling, and I think we should continue.
SHE SAYS: I’m concerned about his temper
There is hope for people with anger management problems.
SHE SAYS: I want to go back to school for a master’s degree
Make sure you and your spouse are thinking about the big picture.
SHE SAYS: I lost my job and my work was important to me
Losing a job can rank among the worst experiences of life. How to deal with it as a couple.
SHE SAYS: John needs to give away some of his stuff
I am excited to combine households after our wedding, but we only have so much space.
SHE SAYS: Do we have to talk about work when we spend all day “in the office” together?
Talk with the intent to grow in your understanding and love for one another.
SHE SAYS: I really disagree with some of the choices he made in the voting booth and I’m really struggling to understand.
Voting can bring out strong emotions.
She Says: I Don't Want to Invite My Biological Father to My Wedding
Now, with that said, there are some questions worth considering.
He Says: She Didn’t Tell Me Our Daughter Got a Speeding Ticket
Open lines of communication are key to a healthy family.