The Fr. Michael Ryan is the first Legionary of Christ to be recognized with an award Alter Christus in its six editions. In his case, for his work in Family Pastoral. Fr. Michael offers in this interview with Lo+RC, in addition to some comments about his interest in family, some advice for both engaged couples and married couples. To those, if they have any problems, he encourages “to seek help immediately from someone who can lend a hand to untie the knots and clarify the misunderstandings that have been formed.” Along with him, in this occasion, Don Sergio Buiza, from the Diocese of Bilbao, was recognized for his work with the deaf and deaf-blind; Don José Aumente for his dedication to itinerant people working in the circus; and Don José Alberto González, from the Diocese of Córdoba, for his commitment to consecrated life.

Are you the first Legionary of Christ to receive an Alter Christus award in the six editions held so far? As you can see, it’s not an award to give “to the insiders.” What does this recognition mean to you?

I receive it in honor of all the people who have contributed to my pastoral activity for the good of the family. Although it is received by one person, I feel it is to recognize the work of many.

Why, as a priest, are you specifically interested in the family, both from a scientific and university perspective, as well as pastoral?

I am interested in the family primarily because of the specific people who make it up and whom I would like to see enjoying all the blessings that God has placed in it. It is also a great satisfaction when one can act as a Good Samaritan to a couple or a family suffering for whatever reason.

It is more than common to hear that “priests don’t know anything about marriage.” What is your opinion of this statement?

Sometimes, when I have spoken about these topics to groups, there have been people who ask me if I am or have been married because it seems I know too much about this reality. However, what I know is the result of some study, but above all, from my frequent dealings with couples and families.

What is the message that the Catholic Church has at this moment of marital and family crisis?

First, let’s try to give better preparation to young people and engaged couples. Second, the Church wants to accompany families more closely so that they can become “what they are,” as John Paul II loved to say.

To a couple who is thinking about getting married right now, what advice would you give?

Something on two levels: to do a good analysis of what they have been during their engagement to detect their positive points and their weak points, making a plan for the future; and secondly, to adjust their spiritual lives because love is nourished there.

And for a marriage that has already been together for some years and is beginning to have some disagreements?

If they see that it’s something that doesn’t go away, they should seek help immediately from someone who can lend a hand to untie the knots and clarify the misunderstandings that have been formed.