Messy Family Project
Perfect for
Parents
HOSTS
Alicia Hernon
Mike Hernon
FOLLOW THEM
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Catholic conversations on marriage and family. Offering encouragement, practical advice, and suggestions for parents on this messy adventure.

Parenting is not a clean-cut, simple process for those who like to follow the rules. Family life is messy and unpredictable, but it is the greatest adventure you will ever have. We are Mike and Alicia Hernon, parents of 10 children with a growing number of grandchildren, and we would like to invite you into some of the conversations we have had with each other about marriage, parenting, and Catholic family life. Our hope is that our conversation sparks a dialogue between you and your spouse that leads to greater unity and intentional Christian parenting in your home. Listen in to our podcast and start the conversation as we seek to lead our families to heaven.
Visit us at https:///www/MessyFamilyProject.org for resources, guides, links and show notes.
“Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife, and they become one flesh.”
Genesis 2:24
Summary
In this episode, we talk about something every person longs for: belonging. At its heart, marriage is meant to be a place where you are chosen, known, and not easily walked away from. It’s a home base, the one relationship you freely choose, where staying matters more than being perfect. Belonging in marriage isn’t about constant agreement or effortless connection. It’s about knowing someone is still there when things are hard, awkward, or unfinished. Over time, that kind of commitment creates safety, trust, and real intimacy. We also explore why working through the mess together often leads to deeper joy than walking away. Join us as we begin a series on building lasting belonging in marriage, starting with the foundation of healthy communication.
Key Takeaways
Everyone needs a place where they Belong and that is found in marriage for Catholic couples
Build that home base in your marriage by affirming your commitment to each other, not just that you are doing everything perfectly.
Being known in marriage happens through vulnerability. When you belong you are able to be more vulnerable.
When you work as a team with common goals that also builds connection and belonging
Couple Discussion Questions
How can we continue to build a safe place, a comfort in belonging to each other in our marriage?
What are our shared goals and dreams?
Resources
Study showing couples who stay together are happier
Importance of Shared Meaning

