BEIJING, Feb. 19 (Xinhuanet) -- A Florida pastor has posed an unusual challenge to members of his church -- 30 days of sex for married couples and 30 days of abstaining for singles, local media reported Monday.

    Head Pastor Paul Wirth of Relevant Church said Sunday the challenge is aimed at bringing couples closer together. He told his congregation that half of all marriages end in divorce.

    "And that's no different for people who attend church," he said. "Sometimes life gets in the way. Our jobs get in the way."

    Engaged couple Sarah Bassil and Tim Jones said they have decided to accept the challenge of abstaining from sex for 30 days.

    "We're going to take the challenge," Bassil said. "We talked about it, and we both realize the importance of doing things the right way."

    Jones said it would be difficult, but worth the effort.

    "I think it's worth trying to find out other things about each other," he said.

    The church has set up a blog, www.30daysexchallenge.com, for congregants to share their thoughts about the challenge.

    (Agencies)