1. The Catholic Diocese of
Arlington requires six months of marriage preparation, beginning with your
initial contact with your parish priest.
2. Each couple marrying in the
Diocese of Arlington is required to attend a marriage preparation conference
such as a Conference for the Engaged.
3. You must currently be
meeting with a priest/deacon for marriage preparation in order to register for
a conference.
4. Most couples will be asked
to take the FOCCUS premarital inventory. It is a tool designed to help engaged
couples learn more about themselves and their relationship. It will also pave
the way for them to discuss many of the topics that are central to ensuring
that their marriage lasts a lifetime.
6. Your priest or deacon may
require you to attend Natural Family Planning (NFP) classes. If he does not, we
encourage you and your fiancé(e) to learn more about this organic way to plan a
family that also respects the integrity of your marriage.
7. The preparing priest or deacon
can assist you in preparing the liturgy, readings, music and other
elements for your wedding.
From the diocesan Office for Marriage, Family and Respect Life
© Arlington Catholic Herald 2019