9 Apr 2026, 15:16Pastor Rio EsplugarWillesden, Brent, London, Greater London, England, United Kingdom
Christian Home and Marriage Week Report 2026
The Joint South England Conference and North England Conference Christian Home & Marriage Week was held from 16–21 February 2026 (excluding Thursday). Hosted by Pastor Rio Espulgar and Pastor John Francis, the week brought together families, leaders, and individuals seeking to build stronger, Christ-centred homes in today’s complex world.
The week opened with a timely and relevant presentation by Dr Les Ackie on “Raising Children in a Digital World.” Rooted in the counsel of Deuteronomy 6:4–7 and Proverbs 22:6, the message called parents to be intentional in guiding their children’s spiritual and emotional development. In a society where children are growing up as digital natives, Dr Ackie emphasised that parenting is not about controlling technology but about cultivating meaningful presence, nurturing connection, and shaping character from an early age.
On Tuesday evening, Mark Semple addressed the sensitive but critical topic “Addiction & Family: Finding Hope Together.” He highlighted the deep connection between addiction and unresolved trauma, reminding attendees that addiction is not only an individual struggle but a family concern. With biblical assurance from 1 Corinthians 10:13 and John 16:33, he offered a message of hope, emphasising that healing and recovery are possible through support, faith, and intentional care.
Midweek, Dr Denias Chihwai brought both insight and warmth as he explored “A Delicate Balance: Navigating Common Distractions in Modern Marriage.” Identifying key challenges such as poor communication, financial stress, social media distractions, and lack of quality time, he encouraged couples to realign their priorities, place God at the centre, and cultivate healthy, intentional relationships.
The programme resumed on Friday with Delivon Francis, who presented “Redeeming the Digital Space.” Her session provided practical, faith-based strategies for managing technology within the home. From creating tech-free zones to establishing a family tech covenant, families were encouraged to prioritise relationships over devices and to use technology as a tool for building rather than weakening connections.
The Sabbath programme offered a meaningful conclusion to the week. Dr Gina Miller led an engaging and interactive Sabbath School, while Karen Holford delivered an inspiring message on “Delightful Day? Celebrating Sabbath without Screens.” Families were reminded of the Sabbath as a gift — an opportunity for rest, joy, connection, and spiritual renewal in a distracted world.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Willesden Church and Pastor Sancho for their generous support and hospitality. Christian Home & Marriage Week 2026 served as a powerful reminder that, with God at the centre, our homes can be places of love, growth, and lasting connection.
The Joint South England Conference and North England Conference Christian Home & Marriage Week was held from 16–21 February 2026 (excluding Thursday). Hosted by Pastor Rio Espulgar and Pastor John Francis, the week brought together families, leaders, and individuals seeking to build stronger, Christ-centred homes in today’s complex world.
The week opened with a timely and relevant presentation by Dr Les Ackie on “Raising Children in a Digital World.” Rooted in the counsel of Deuteronomy 6:4–7 and Proverbs 22:6, the message called parents to be intentional in guiding their children’s spiritual and emotional development. In a society where children are growing up as digital natives, Dr Ackie emphasised that parenting is not about controlling technology but about cultivating meaningful presence, nurturing connection, and shaping character from an early age.
On Tuesday evening, Mark Semple addressed the sensitive but critical topic “Addiction & Family: Finding Hope Together.” He highlighted the deep connection between addiction and unresolved trauma, reminding attendees that addiction is not only an individual struggle but a family concern. With biblical assurance from 1 Corinthians 10:13 and John 16:33, he offered a message of hope, emphasising that healing and recovery are possible through support, faith, and intentional care.
Midweek, Dr Denias Chihwai brought both insight and warmth as he explored “A Delicate Balance: Navigating Common Distractions in Modern Marriage.” Identifying key challenges such as poor communication, financial stress, social media distractions, and lack of quality time, he encouraged couples to realign their priorities, place God at the centre, and cultivate healthy, intentional relationships.
The programme resumed on Friday with Delivon Francis, who presented “Redeeming the Digital Space.” Her session provided practical, faith-based strategies for managing technology within the home. From creating tech-free zones to establishing a family tech covenant, families were encouraged to prioritise relationships over devices and to use technology as a tool for building rather than weakening connections.
The Sabbath programme offered a meaningful conclusion to the week. Dr Gina Miller led an engaging and interactive Sabbath School, while Karen Holford delivered an inspiring message on “Delightful Day? Celebrating Sabbath without Screens.” Families were reminded of the Sabbath as a gift — an opportunity for rest, joy, connection, and spiritual renewal in a distracted world.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Willesden Church and Pastor Sancho for their generous support and hospitality. Christian Home & Marriage Week 2026 served as a powerful reminder that, with God at the centre, our homes can be places of love, growth, and lasting connection.
