Switzerland: All Aboard for the Family Boat Trip
By Jeanne Metz, FFAPU Switzerland
On May 14, 2017 a large group of 27 set off from Biel , Switzerland on a boat trip with a difference ! It was a pleasure trip but we also used the time to share about the important topic of « the family », about the UN-established International Day of the Family, celebrated every year on 15th May.
It was good to see such a range of ages among our group – from babies to « more mature » adults.
As we sat on board, four moderators moved around the groups, introducing questions for discussion. The questions are as follows:
- How can parents fulfill their essential roles?
- What makes a healthy mutual relationship between parents and children?
- What makes marriage healthy and stable?
- What can the family do to deal with pressure from society?
On arrival at Erlach, we found a perfect grassy place at the side of the lake to gather and a summary of our ideas was given by each moderator. Then we enjoyed a tasty picnic and had a short walk to the nearby village. We boarded the boat again and went a short distance to St Peter’s island. There we visited the room where Jean- Jacques Rousseau, writer and philosopher, had spent some time as a refugee in the 18th century. We walked around the island and talked together in the beautiful peaceful surroundings. Although rain was forecast, we were very lucky to enjoy a comfortable temperature all day.
On the return journey, we enjoyed each other’s company on the boat, before arriving again at Biel and said our farewells. We all agreed it was a wonderful day and we should do again sometime.
