WHAT GOD HAS JOINED TOGETHER

WHY MARRIAGE PREPARATION?

Throughout history God has revealed the special role that marriage has in the plan of creation. It is a living sign, a symbol and image of God's covenant with the Church. A blessed marriage is not only a gift of God's love for the couple themselves, but a special gift in their ministry to the rest of the Church. A successful marriage benefits not only the couple, but the people of God.

Pastors are obliged to see to it that their own ecclesial faith community furnishes these people wiht assistance so that the matrimonial state is maintained in a Christian spirit and makes progress toward perfection possible.

This assistance is especially to be furnished through...

personal preparation for entering marriage so that through such preparation the engaged couple may be ddisposed toward holiness and duties of their new state. (Canon Law 1063.2)

WHAT IS THE PROGRAM?

Step 1. Call parish office to arrange initial interview with pastor which includes:

• discussion of requirements
• determine the presider: priest or deacon
• availability of date for the wedding

• to help couple take next steps in preparing for their life-long marriage
• to explain the policy, requirements, and options available for marriages in church
• to assist with the necessary paperwork
• to give the FOCCUS Assesment
• to provide follow-up to FOCCUS tool
• to schedule the couple for 6 week Marriage Preparation Course

• to assist with wedding planning, flowers, etc.
• to assist in planning a prayerful liturgy with music options
• to schedule rehearsal time and needs
• to contact the Parish Secretary to set date and time for wedding.

The six week sessions are held at various times throughout the year on Friday evenings from 7-9 PM.

1998-99 MARRIAGE PREP CLASSES:

St. Mary's: Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23,30, Nov. 6
St. Joseph's: Feb. 19, 26, March 5, 12, 19, 26
St. Mary's: April 23, 30, May 7, 14, 21, 28
Completion of a full series is essential for the wedding to proceed.

RESOURCE COUPLES or PERSONS are individuals who have volunteered to share their expertise and experience in a variety of areas including: spiritual, communication, finance, medical, and legal issues, as they relate to married life. Engaged couples will be challenged to explore many areas BEFORE problems arise in a marriage and help point direction if needed

THE GOAL...
of the Marriage Preparation Program is to strengthen the stability of marriage in our society and to show engaged couples that the Church does indeed care for their welfare. Through participation in this Program the faith Community hopes to provide the engaged couples with the foundation and support system for a happy and committed marriage.

It is best to register at least six months prior to the anticipated wedding time. Please do not set a date until after the initial interview with the pastor.