Marriage Preparation Process

Four Steps to a Sacramental Marriage

Preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage is a joyful journey. The process involves four key steps designed to strengthen your relationship, deepen your faith, and prepare you for a lifelong commitment.

Step 1 – Meet with Clergy (at least 6 months before your wedding)

Your priest or deacon will guide you through the marriage preparation process by:

Discussing your wedding plans
Completing a Pre-Nuptial Investigation form to begin the process
Identifying any impediments, permissions, or dispensations needed
Helping you locate sacramental records
Offering counseling sessions using a marriage inventory tool (e.g. FOCCUS, Fully Engaged, Prepare & Enrich, etc.)

Step 2 – Complete a Marriage Preparation Program (Pre-Cana)

The Archdiocese of St. Louis’ Office of Marriage & Family Life provides a list of approved marriage preparation programs. Options include:

Archdiocesan program link, click HERE
Other approved regional programs, click HERE
Parish-based mentor couple programs, contact your local parish for availability.

Step 3 – Take a Natural Family Planning (NFP) Course

You and your future spouse will attend an introductory course on one method of Natural Family Planning (NFP).
Resources and classes are available through the Office of Natural Family Planning, including information on:

NFP methods, click HERE
Certified instructors, click HERE
NaPro-OBGYN providers

Step 4 – Plan Your Wedding Liturgy

With your priest or deacon, you’ll choose the readings and prayers for your wedding ceremony. This planning is the final step before your wedding day.

Your wedding day is only the beginning of your marriage journey. For ongoing inspiration, ideas, and resources to nurture a joyful and lifelong marriage, visit the Jubilant Marriages Website.