Marriage Prep

Major Elements of the Marriage Preparation Program

I. FOCCUS Questionnaire
​Taken online at a time that works best for you.
II. Pre-Marriage Program
This requirement can be met by attending an Engaged Encounter Weekend, a one-day Pre-Marriage Seminar at St. Mary’s, or by attending a Pre-Marriage program at another parish.
III. Private Sessions
These are meetings with the priest/deacon who will witness your marriage.
IV. Rehearsal
The date and time should be set when you reserve the church for your wedding.
V. Documents and Fees
VI. Important Information

 

FOCCUS Questionnaire

The FOCCUS Questionnaire is a tool we use to help a couple see if they are communicating well in the different areas of their relationship. The results of the FOCCUS Questionnaire will be reviewed with you by the priest/deacon who is helping you prepare for your wedding.  Each of you will be receiving an email from [email protected] with information about taking the FOCCUS questionnaire online at a time that works best for you.   You should take these tests separately from one another and complete them in advance of your meeting with your presider.


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Pre-Marriage Program

All couples being married at St. Mary’s are required to attend and participate in a Marriage Preparation Program. St. Mary’s offers its own Pre-Marriage Program twice a year—April and October.

Our Pre-Marriage Program is designed to offer you a special opportunity to learn from the experience of others and also to let you talk together about your future life—your strengths and weaknesses; your expectations and goals; your attitudes toward money, careers, sex, children, family and your faith and the role the Church plays in your life. It is a great day and one that everyone enjoys.

An Engaged Encounter or some form of Marriage Preparation Program offered by another parish is also a means of fulfilling this requirement.

A copy of your Marriage Preparation/PreCana or Engaged Encounter Certificate must be presented to the priest or deacon who is celebrating your wedding.