Torch, Spring 2005

indicated that 241 respondents were still married, and there was a distinct correlation between those who rated the FTBT program as effective and those who reported they had a high level of marital satisfaction. Rigel said, “According to the cross-tabulation comparing marital satisfaction and overall effectiveness, those who rated marital satisfaction as high attributed their success to the program” (73.5 percent of the respondents rated the program as highly effective, while 95.5 percent of the respondents rated their level of marital satisfaction as very high). She added, however, “There was a problem with our study as time did not allow us to survey individuals who did not go through a marriage preparedness program, so we did not have another group with which to compare our results.” Another student is currently continuing this study to obtain additional data. Those positive results come as no surprise to Irving. One of the blessings of overseeing FTBT is noting its success record. He commented, “I am grateful that Cedarville started and continues to fund this vital program. I hope that FTBT will continue to effectively prepare young couples for the joys and challenges of marriage and also continue to enrich the marriages of faculty and staff who are involved as mentors.” He added, “My wife and I have mentored at least one couple each year since we came to Cedarville. Not only have we enjoyed the opportunity to build invaluable relationships with these young couples, but each time the process has challenged us to reflect upon and work on improving our own marriage.” As Julie looks toward the future, she is hopeful that the counseling and mentoring she received through FTBT will help her marriage stand the test of time. Julie said that although many of the FTBT topics were matters she and Greg had discussed during their dating days, “The program helped us to be more specific about things like how to deal with conflict, what really bothers or excites the other person, what our expectations in marriage are, and our mindset for finances.” Over time and with more marital experience, Julie hopes she will be able to come alongside a couple as they consider marriage. And because premarital mentoring was so beneficial, Julie says that should motherhood be in her future, she plans to find a mentor to help her navigate her way through the joys and trials that children and parenting bring. Spring 2005 / TORCH 7 C essna Catherine Winslow is a homemaker and freelance journalist. She and her husband, Kevin, have been together for 16 years and have three children — one of whom is autistic. Having a special needs child and no extended family nearby, Cessna appreciates the value of mentoring relationships and the support that Christian friendships offer. The Winslows are also currently counseling an engaged couple. Along with mentoring young women, Cessna occasionally has the privilege of coming alongside new mothers of special needs children. T