Real Family Talk
Columnists: Willie Oliver and Elaine Oliver
Willie Oliver, PhD, CFLE and Elaine Oliver, PhD, LCPC, CFLE are directors of the Department of Family Ministries at the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists world headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland, USA.
Parenting Prodigals
If your child has stepped away from faith, that ache is real—but it’s not failure. Like the father in the prodigal son story, your role now is simple and powerful: love, wait, and keep the door open. God is still working.
Willie and Elaine Oliver
July 3, 2026
When Love Feels Lost
The demands of raising children often leave couples with little time for their relationship, yet maintaining a healthy marriage remains vital—not only for the couple but for their children’s well-being.
Willie and Elaine Oliver
July 20, 2025
Cultivating Sacred Family Traditions
Teaching your children to look beyond themselves is crucial for their spiritual and emotional development.
Willie and Elaine Oliver
December 6, 2024
The Sacred Space of Family Time
Modern phone interruptions parallel “money changers in the temple,” where commercial interests invaded sacred space.
Willie and Elaine Oliver
November 1, 2024
Who Should I Marry?
Pithy and practical counsel from Scripture and psychology on finding a compatible spouse.
Willie and Elaine Oliver
October 4, 2024
Strengthening Your Union
The Olivers answer a question about the need for counseling when facing annoyances in marriage.
Willie and Elaine Oliver
September 6, 2024
Managing Wedding Preparation Stress
Q. After dating for three years, my boyfriend and I have finally decided to marry, hoping that by now we have most things in place to have a relatively stress-free event. We are now six months away from the wedding and the stress we are feeling is incredible. What advice to do you have for us … Continued
Willie and Elaine Oliver
August 2, 2024
Meaningful Anniversary Traditions
Q. Our third wedding anniversary is coming up soon and my wife and I have been talking about making our anniversaries meaningful. Please share some ideas that will help us accomplish this goal. A. We believe you can strengthen your marriage relationship by establishing meaningful anniversary traditions that celebrate your commitment to each other and … Continued
Willie and Elaine Oliver
July 5, 2024
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