The Archdiocese of San Francisco requires couples to contact the
parish church at least six months prior to the marriage and take part in the following marriage preparation programs:
|
PMI/FOCCUS
- During the preparation period, the priest assisting the couple
will provide what is called the Pre-Marital Inventory and/or FOCCUS (Facilitating Open Couple
Communication Understanding and Study). These programs aid the couple in
examining their feelings and expectations concerning marriage.
It is to be noted that the priest assisting the couple may determine that there is a
question regarding the couple's readiness for marriage. He may refer the couple
to a professional counselor for evaluation and assessment.
Special Consideration
: Persons under the age of 19 who wish to marry will be
asked to receive individual evaluative counseling before the marriage can be
arranged, in accordance with the policy of the Archdiocese of San Francisco.
|
|
In addition to the PMI and/or FOCCUS Program, the couple attends the
following preparation program:
|
|
|
Engaged Encounter
- A weekend to be shared by the couple
together with others preparing for marriage. This weekend experience assists them in
developing communication skills by giving each person the opportunity for honest,
intensive sharing about their future lives together. The schedule for the Engaged
Encounter may be obtained from the Wedding Coordinator.
|
Attendance at Engaged Encounter is mandatory for all couples.
|
