Foundations

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All couples are required to take a marriage preparation course prior to their wedding. "Foundations" is the program offered by the Office of Marriage and Family Life. It is a two-part retreat style conference for engaged couples who are preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage. Only one day of Marriage Preparation is required by the Diocese, but all couples are strongly encouraged to attend both days. Please discuss registration for one or both days with your priest or deacon.

All "Foundations" presentations are given by trained married couples, a priest, and /or a deacon. During the Life Skills Day, engaged couples will be discussing topics that include Communication, Conflict Resolution, Time and Money Management, Love Styles, Sexuality, Virtues, Prayer, and an Introduction to the Theology of Marriage. During the Theology Day, engaged couples will receive an overview of Pope John Paul’s teaching concerning the THEOLOGY OF THE BODY and the THEOLOGY OF THE FAMILY. After hearing presentations by the married couples and the priest/deacon, the engaged couples will be given questions to reflect upon and to share with their partner. This is a beautiful opportunity to spend a day in quiet reflection and intimate discussion with your fiancé.

It is important to note that completion of only the Life Skills Day is required for the successful completion of the course; however, the Theology Day is strongly encouraged. Each conference/retreat will last approximately eight hours and includes Sunday Mass/Vigil and a catered lunch.

If you or your future spouse have had a previous union, we offer conferences with a component designed specifically to address some of the challenges that couples entering a second union will face. A second union is a marriage in which one or both partners have been widowed or received a declaration of nullity with freedom to marry from the Catholic Church. There is no additional cost for this option.  If you have questions about this option please call the Office of Marriage and Family Life directly at 337-261-5653.