Heritage Ghanaian SDA Church in Toronto

Organizes Love Seminar for the Public

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres. Love never fails…And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. (1 Corinthians 13).”

The Heritage Seventh-day Adventist Church hosted a program on the “five languages of love” on February 14, 2009. The program took place after the divine service, and was led by Elder Elvis Gyebi and his sweet wife, Ruth who are certified Christian Counsellors. The couple recently re-located to Toronto, Canada from London, England. It was an eye opening program for many couples, and anyone who was able to attend the seminar.

In a very dramatic and highly interactive presentation, the Gyebis thrilled the large gathering of people at the Christian Centre in the Jane/Finch area of Toronto with the secrets of ‘Love Languages.’ The first language of love is words of affirmation, which is passing any words of appreciation or verbal compliment. Words of affirmation have an unbelievable power. They can heal, bless, and bring peace. Every now and then people like to hear words of encouragement or an affirmation of their self- worth. Words of affirmation can at times create intimacy. It draws couples closer to each other. It is a powerful communication of love.

Other people prefer quality time, which is the second language of love. They prefer their spouse to give them time, and attention. Couples can spend quality time through sharing information about themselves, or social events. It is crucial for couples to listen to each other during quality time. It is also important for couples to participate in meaningful activities that they both enjoy, such as going for long walks, having picnics or any activity that includes the two. For couples who are both busy, it is important to schedule time together, and this requires commitment.

The third language of love is receiving gifts. Gifts are more than just purchasing or giving expensive items. They are the visual symbols of love. Some people feel loved when they receive gifts from their loved ones. For these people, it presents value to the relationship. Gifts do not necessary always have to be purchased, they can be made for your spouse, which even demonstrates that you deeply care for them.

Acts of Service is the fourth language of love, which requires doing things for your spouse. Service is an act of love, and it shows reverence. It also shows that you seek to please the person you are with. An Act of service should never be forced. It should never be coerced. It takes away the whole meaning from acts of service when forced or coerced. It is should be given freely from the heart.

The last language of love is physical touch. It is a gesture of love and reaches to the depth of our being. It is the most powerful form of communication even with the smallest touch on the shoulder. It does not always refer to sex. It can be any gentle or loving touch, such as holding hands, hugs, a foot massage, a kiss on the cheek and so forth. Physical touch is tender, innocent and sensual. It is an openly expression of affection or emotion.

There will be many barriers between couples who do not understand each other’s language of love as it will become increasingly difficult for them to communicate or get along. However, our relationships will blossom if we know and communicate with each other based on our partner’s language of love.

The oldest married couples (over 30 years including the Antwis and Eyiahs) and the newly married person (Amma) among the gathering were made to cut a big ‘Love Cake’ donated by the speakers to crown the presentation.