Marriage Preparation Process

STEP 1 | GET STARTED

Looking for an in-depth explanation of the preparation process below? Click HERE to read about how we celebrate this holy Sacrament and the responsibilities it involves. 


STEP 2 | SUBMIT A MARRIAGE REQUEST

At least six (6) months prior to your proposed wedding date, we ask that you click HERE to fill out a marriage request form. Once you submit the form, a priest or deacon will schedule an appointment with you.


STEP 3 | ATTEND AN INITIAL INTERVIEW

At this initial interview, a priest or deacon will ask some questions to get to know a little bit about you. Then, he will complete the following two (2) forms with you: 

1. "First Steps to the Altar" form
2. Prenuptial Inquiry form

STEP 4 | COMPLETE THE FOCCUS INVENTORY

Once the initial interview is completed, you will need to complete the FOCCUS Inventory. It is important that you complete the inventory as soon as possible and without discussing any of the questions with your intended spouse. To submit a request, click  HERE.


STEP 5 | PARTICIPATE IN OUR FIRE PROGRAM
Once the FOCCUS Inventory has been completed, the couple should schedule an appointment with a fertility practioner to assist them in discerning God's will for their family. To schedule an appointment, click HERE.


STEP 7 | SCHEDULE AND ATTEND ASSESSMENT MEETINGS

Once the FOCCUS Inventory has been completed, the couple then schedules two (2) additional meetings with the same priest or deacon. 


STEP 8 | SCHEDULE AND ATTEND A FORMAL PREPARATION PROGRAM

In addition to the meetings previously mentioned, the couple should choose their formal preparation program. Their options are:

• In-Home Mentor Couple (email the office)
• Engaged Encounter (Weekend Retreat)
• Special Marriage Preparation (for those special circumstances)

STEP 9 | PLAN THE LITURGY

Once you have completed all the previous preparation, it is time to start preparing you for your wedding DAY! With that comes the planning of the actual wedding liturgy. Click HERE to begin!


STEP 10 | SUBMIT ALL THE NECESSARY PAPERWORK

The final step of preparation is for you to submit all the necessary paperwork, which are as follows:
 

• Groom's Baptism Certificate (sent directly from Church of Baptism)
• Bride's Baptism Certificate (sent directly from Church of Baptism) 
• Certificate of Attendance for Formal Marriage Preparation Program
• Dispensations (if needed)
• Civil Marriage License (within 30 days of marriage)
• Permission from Pastor (if needed)