Vatican City, March, 2026 – Worldwide Marriage Encounter (WWME) has been formally recognized as an International Private Association of the Faithful by the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life.

The decree was signed in Rome on March 11, during a formal presentation led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life. A delegation of WWME couples, priests and bishops from around the world were present for the signing and also participated in an audience with the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV on March 12.

The Vatican’s recognition acknowledges WWME as a lay movement serving married couples and clergy through shared experiences focused on communication, reflection and commitment.

For more than 55 years, WWME has offered couples, priests and religious a dedicated time to step away from daily responsibilities to give intentional attention to their relationships. The Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend experience introduces practices that continue beyond the initial Weekend, shaping how participants engage within their marriage, ministry and communities.

Recognition by the Vatican acknowledges the consistency of this work and the generations of couples, priests and religious who have carried it forward in their own lives and communities.

“This recognition reflects what has been lived quietly and consistently by couples and priests over time,” said Clarel and Danielle Marie, the WWME International Ecclesial Team Couple. “It speaks to a way of living that is intentional, attentive, and rooted in a commitment to grow together in everyday life.”

Founded in 1968, WWME is now present in nearly 100 countries, forming an international network of participants who continue to engage with the Weekend experience and its practices long after it concludes.

“What we have seen through this movement is how intentional time and attention can change the direction of a relationship,” said Kevin and Kerry Townsend, representing the WWME Pacific Ecclesial Team. “This recognition encourages us to continue offering the Weekend experience with clarity and care to those who are seeking it.”

As Worldwide Marriage Encounter looks ahead, the movement remains focused on serving couples and clergy through the same Weekend experiences that has guided WWME since its founding. The recognition by the Vatican marks a continuation of that work, as new participants are invited to take part and carry it forward.

About Worldwide Marriage Encounter:
Worldwide Marriage Encounter is a Catholic movement founded in 1968 that brings couples, priests and religious together through a shared formation experience centered on intentional communication and reflection. The movement continues beyond that experience through an active global network, where participants remain engaged in applying what they have learned in their relationships, ministries, and daily lives.

For more information about Worldwide Marriage Encounter, visit www.wwme.org.au

Contact Information
For media inquiries, please contact:
Charlie and Joy Saba, Australian Ecclesial Team Couple
Ph: +61 411 289 462
Email: [email protected]