Feb 11 • 13:09 UTC 🇬🇧 UK Guardian

Spanish video game aims to boost church marriage rates

Spanish bishops have launched a new video game to promote church marriages as numbers of such weddings decline dramatically.

In an effort to combat the significant drop in church weddings, Spanish bishops are harnessing the power of a video game to appeal to couples considering marriage. Recent statistics reveal that only 18% of weddings in Spain were performed in church by 2024, a stark decrease from over 55% in 2007. This situation has prompted the church to explore innovative methods to revitalize interest in its matrimonial teachings amidst growing concerns about rising divorce rates.

The video game, titled 'Level Up! A Two-player Game', aims to educate players about the fundamental aspects of marriage through play. The game features a narrative involving two characters, Fran and Elena, who encounter various challenges while navigating daily life, earning rewards as they gain insights into the values essential for a successful partnership. This initiative represents a broader trend of leveraging modern technology to engage younger audiences and rekindle interest in traditional practices such as church weddings.

The emphasis on the game's slogan, 'El amor, la aventura más épica' (Love is the most epic adventure), reflects a youthful and adventurous approach to discussing marriage. As the Catholic Church in Spain confronts dwindling numbers of churchgoers and wedding ceremonies, this gaming initiative may offer a contemporary solution to an age-old institution, encouraging couples to see marriage not only as a religious obligation but also as a shared journey filled with challenges and rewards.

📡 Similar Coverage