My marriage…with Bishop Empraiz

How did you meet your wife?

I met her in the choir 20 years ago. We both attended the same church and were members of the choir.

What attracted you to her?

Her character was the major attraction coupled with her teachable nature.

How long have you been married?

We dated for three years and have been married for 16 years now.

What are some of the lessons you have learnt from your marriage?

We learn every day in marriage. In my marriage, I have learnt that patience is key. Despite dating for three years, we still had a lot to discover about each other and the first three years were tough. I have learnt commitment both in good and bad times. For 16 years, we have never reported ourselves to anyone because we try to discuss the issue and handle it in a mature way.

Why are the first few years of marriage usually tough?

This is because couples are just getting to know each other. Their flaws will be open to one another, you have to be mature enough to overcome it. Most families go through the roughness of the first few years though some people still have issues years after.

What do you love most about your wife?

My wife is homely and has endured with me during the good and bad times. My wife takes care of the home so well even in my absence. She is a lovely person. My wife is in charge of everything in the home. She manages money better than I do and prays for my career to be successful.

Is your wife a member of your band?

No, she is not. She is not the public type. She doesn’t even like me to post her pictures on social media except on her birthday. She sings in church and that’s it.

Has marriage affected your career in any way?

Marriage has affected my career positively because this isn’t the level I was at before I got married. We have grown and started an international ministry. I have travelled out with my wife several times for ministrations.

How do you balance your career and home?

My wife understands my career before we got married and believes that it is God’s calling upon my life. She is aware of my plans and I don’t do anything without informing her. In fact, we plan my trips together. I have been away for three months now and she understands because that’s the nature of my job. We employ effective communication with the kids. No day passes without having to communicate with her and our kids. I make sure I try to fill into areas where she needs me most whether personally or for the kids/home.

What should young and intending couples lookout for in their to-be partners?

They should look out for character and someone who is godly. If you cannot cope with the person’s character, it is best you don’t go into the marriage. Take time to study the person you want to marry. Learn when to let go because you cannot be right all the time. Try to accept certain things you cannot change about your partner. Also, prayer is important. Make sure your partner is hardworking because money is needed to run the home. Intending couples should work on themselves and be open-minded to learn many things.