A first CANA weekend in Vietnam after many years: joy as a path for couples.
From December 12 to 14, a beautiful CANA weekend was held in Saigon (Vietnam). Eleven couples took part in this weekend, supported by three team members, in an atmosphere of simplicity, depth, and great joy.
The objective of this first CANA meeting was to help couples love each other better by exploring the central theme of joy. Despite the language barrier and cultural differences, a common language quickly emerged: that of love, listening, and kindness. Very quickly, hearts opened and a true sense of communion was established.
The weekend program was rich and balanced, including teachings, time for dialogue as a couple, moments of relaxation, shared laughter, and spiritual exercises. Each session had its place and contributed to creating a climate of trust and depth.
Several powerful themes punctuated the session: choosing gratitude, the joy of fruitfulness, going through trials, and rejoicing in the joy of the other. These themes were explored in particular depth through the “path of joy,” a four-step process inviting each couple to take concrete actions.
Underlying the entire weekend was an essential question: how to welcome joy and cultivate it over the long term? Couples were invited to discover that joy is not just a fleeting emotion, but a fruit of the Holy Spirit, a sign of God’s presence in their married life. A joy that is chosen, nurtured, protected, and put into action daily.
This first CANA weekend in Vietnam was a deeply encouraging experience, bringing much hope. Given the momentum generated and the fruits already visible, two CANA weekends are already scheduled for the year 2026, to continue and root this beautiful dynamic at the service of couples.
