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Types of Marriage Preparation Programs

There are different types of Marriage Preparation sessions available to engaged couples in the Archdiocese. Listed below are descriptions of these sessions, which have been designed to address the specific issues and needs of the couples who are preparing for the Sacrament of Matrimony.

• Fees: $80 per couple (Cash Only)
• Please bring pen or pencil and small cushion for seating comfort.
• Drinks and light snacks provided, 45 min. lunch break.

Regular Marriage Preparation Session

These one day or three or four evening sessions are for engaged couples who are being married for the first time. Engaged couples who attend these sessions have not been previously married to each other civilly nor have they been previously married to another party (e.g., annulment, widowed). These sessions address such topics as:

1. Sacrament of Matrimony
2. Family of Origin
3. Communication
4. Decision-Making

Convalidation Marriage Preparation Session

These sessions are for couples who have been previously married in a civil ceremony. They are now making a commitment in the sight of the Catholic Community, entering into a covenanted relationship, not just with each other but also with God and God's people, the Church. These couples have been married anywhere from a few months to many years and some already have children. This type of preparation can also be beneficial for the couple who has lived together for an extended period of time. These sessions address such issues as:

1. Married Intimacy
2. Parenting
3. Finances
4. Relationship with Church

Subsequent Marriage Preparation Sessions

These sessions are for couples who have been previously married. They fall into two categories:

• Those who have divorced, received an annulment and are now remarrying.
• Those who have been widowed and are now remarrying.

The day gives attention not only to the present relationship, but also to how the previously married party(ies) has (have) worked through the stages of grief or struggles of ending the former union(s) through death or divorce. It addresses such topics as:

1. Bringing Closure to the First Marriage
2. Blending Families
3. Finances
4. Expectations

Engaged Encounter Weekends

This is a weekend experience presented by two married Catholic couples and a priest. It is designed to stimulate the engaged couples to reflect on self-knowledge, communication, sexuality, etc. The main thrust of the weekend is personal reflection and dialogue.

Special Circumstances

From time to time we receive calls about senior couples whom it may not be appropriate to send on the regular marriage preparation sessions. (e.g., physical stamina, too wide of gap in age differences, etc.) please call the Office of Family Life. We will make special arrangements.

• Marriage Preparation
• Ministry to the Separated and Divorced
• Ministry to the Widowed
• Natural Family Planning
• About Divorce and Annulments

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