The Sacrament of Marriage
Usually 6 months’ notice is required for the proper celebration of this Sacrament. Marriage is a sacred union. It is an expectation of the Catholic Church that all Catholics wishing to raise their children in the catholic faith will have a Catholic Sacramental Marriage. Marriage preparation is both important and necessary in this parish. Couples meet with the celebrant as soon as a couple are contemplating marriage and from there the planning and preparation begin.
Please visit the following websites for your choice of a Marriage Preparation Course.
Catholic Engaged Encounter
A weekend course which focuses on the relationship of the couple and their relationship with God. Engaged Encounter provides an opportunity for each couple to talk privately, honestly and intensely about their future lives together; their strengths and weaknesses; desires, ambitions and goals; their attitudes about money, sex, children, and family; and their role in the Church and society.
Telephone: (02) 9990 3212
Website:
www.engagedencounter.org.au
Smart Loving Engaged
SmartLoving is a series of resources supporting couples in their committment life-cycle.
The series honours and celebrates the unique strengths of both men and women, allowing each partner to engage freely and confidently. It’s an experience which provides the freedom to have a future. Smart Loving helps participants emerge stronger, as a couple, and as individuals. The investment of time and energy generates improved relational health and greater personal fulfilment. Smart Loving draws from a wealth of research, theology, and experience to
Whatever season of marriage, Smart Loving sets couples up for success with practical strategies for emotional, sexual and spiritual happiness.
For couples preparing for marriage, SmartLoving Engaged (originally named ‘Embrace’ 2005-2012) is a multimedia course that is accessible through couple-to-couple mentoring, small groups and correspondence.
Website:
smartloving.org/engaged/
Telephone: +61 29319 6280
Email:
info@smartloving.org
Of Life and Love
A weekend course designed to give special emphasis to the spiritual and sacramental dimensions of marriage, while paying due attention to the more practical aspects as well, such as families, communication and finances. Of Life and Love highlights the importance of God’s grace and of human love in building a happy and enduring relationship.
Telephone: (02) 9643 3660
Website:
www.caec.com.au/marriage/index.html
Together As One
A weekend program that considers factors which contribute to an enduring and satisfying marriage and helps couples develop the knowledge and skills necessary to deal with relationship challenges. Together As One also demonstrates how the sacrament of marriage can enrich a loving Christian relationship.
Telephone: (02) 9771 4385
Website:
www.togetherasone.org.au
FOCCUS Pre-Marriage Inventory
The FOCCUS Pre-Marriage Inventory is a comprehensive, user-friendly tool for use by lay individuals, couples or professionals who are helping couples prepare for marriage, and who become trained as FOCCUS Facilitators. The FOCCUS© Inventory is designed to help engaged couples appreciate their unique relationship, learn more about themselves, and discuss topics important to their lifelong marriage.
http://www.foccusinc.com/foccus-inventory.aspx
Foccus is conducted by CatholicCare Wyong. wyongfc@dbb.org.au