Who wants a reward for moral behavior?
The Associated Press carried a story on October 23 that seems most curious. A program called “Marriage Appreciation Training Uplifting Relationship Education” was highlighted. Based in Conyers, Georgia (near Atlanta), the program is under the auspices of Rockdale Medical Center. As you might suspect, MATURE is not a religious effort. Organizer Philippia Faust has offered a $10,000 reward to a couple who plan to wed. The terms are simple: They must live in one of three counties in the vicinity, undergo marital counseling, and open their wedding to the public. So far, so good. Making the offer a little less attractive, apparently, is the stipulation that no alcohol can be served at the reception. One other qualification for the $10,000 is what has made national headlines: The couple must agree not to engage in premarital sex. No couple has yet stepped forward to accept the challenge. With the October 31 deadline fast approaching Faust observed: “In our society it’s going to be hard to fi
