Relationships are being defined by pop culture, not based on any biblical model. Well, most people have had more sexual relationships than they have owned cars/hired one. At the same time, God did not make us be alone nor walk through any circumstances by one’s self. It is not good to be isolated in thoughts nor live a day without laughter, this can lower immunity. Fortunately, personal relationships are the fertile soil from which all advancement, all success, all achievements, and downfall begins.
Marriage is a relationship that cannot be compared to business networking. The choice of the perfect partner is paramount because the union is parmerment. Scars left behind never fade away after leaving. For the Akurinu, marriage is a covenant and can only be broken when death occurs. Thus, the intent is always to find the person one loves genuinely, purely and can fit in his/her purpose.
To achieve this the Akurinu follow amazing stages. And they my overlap at times.
Friendship
They are encouraged to be social and build meaningful relations. Good friends are not only good for your health but also in boosting your self- awareness, self-confidence and self -worth. Not only do they increase your sense of belonging but also your purpose. Through the interactions the Akurinu are able to identify which kind fits them better; who they can get along better and it is the best place to note the weakness without being surprised.
Dating
Before being exclusive, they are allowed to go on dates with different persons. To them, dating happens when one wants to know the other at a personal level. They meet socially with the aim of assessing each other’s suitability as a future partner. It involves social activities like coffee dates, attending a function, Kesha, …etc. This sounds and feels like data collection. Girls can go to harmless dates before saying yes. After a while, one is able to make a decision on who to be committed to. At this point, the man has the confidence to ask “Will you be my girlfriend?”
Courtship
When she says yes to being exclusive, romance begins to blossom. The language changes slightly from friend to love.
At this point the couple lay the foundation for their marriage thus, the relationship becomes more intimate emotionally, spiritually and physically. But there are values and parameters that guide at this stage. Purity, honesty are the most important. Currently, most couples engage in sex and feel it is right if one is in a committed relationship. In truth, the Akurinu focus on keeping their relationship pure- they say no to fornication. This is possible and very practical.
Nevertheless, when a couple ‘falls’, the church considers them as husband and wife. At this point, they cannot have a church wedding although, prayers are conducted for their forgiveness and to be taken back in church. Sex is fabulous and it destroys especially when you are only compatible in bed.
The avoid house dates like plague unless, there are other friends. All the same outdoor dates are more meaningful. They tend to bring the worst and the best the a person. This way, it is easy to know the other party better.
Proposal
On making a decision to marry, the man first goes to the pastor and the youth patron for a look over, guidance, and to show his commitment. This mainly done to protect women from exploitation by uncommitted men. On satisfying the church leaders the man is given a form that is to be signed by the girlfriend after being proposed to. After signing the document and taking it back, a wedding is always organized with three months. It can be a high-end wedding or an elegant simple wedding.
Ironically, a man can also propose to a girl with whom they have not being in an intimate relationship/ dating especially if the church leaders have approved. Divine connection.
Marriage
Mostly happens three months after an accepted proposal