Marriage & Confirmation

Marriage Preparation Program

The Marriage Preparation Program is for engaged couples who plan to be married in the church. A priest/deacon, marriage coordinator or a satisfied couple who have already experienced the benefits of the program usually refer those interested to us. The program offers input from the viewpoint of married couples and clergy. The focus is on the importance of understanding both the commitment required and the development of skills needed in living out the covenant of a sacramental marriage. The first session provides an opportunity for the couples to discuss honestly with each other, with facilitators and peers, issues associated with family living, communication, finances, the Christian understanding of sexuality, the sacrament of Matrimony and the role of married couples in both Church and society. Program Dates: August 30, September 20, October 25, November 15 Call the registrar to reserve a place and for more particulars. (781) 585-8355. Cost: $85.00 2009 Program Dates: Feb.28, March 28, April 25, May 9, June 20, July 11, Aug. 15, Sept. 19, Oct. 31, Nov. 21 Cost: $90.00 per couple Facilitators: Thomas Griffith, SVD, Robert Jones, SVD

PREPARE

The PREPARE Program is a two session program for couples who are either unable to attend the group program or who desire a more individual marriage preparation experience. PREPARE uses a couple inventory followed by a second session to interpret the results of the inventory. PREPARE is designed to assist couples in focusing objectively on critical relationship issues. The inventory is intended to assess areas in which relationships need to grow. It also highlights existing strengths in the relationship that can help couples to progress in a positive direction in attaining the Christian ideal of a sacramental/covenanted union. Session 1: A session to take the inventory Session 2: After approximately two weeks, a session to review with a trained staff member the inventory results that highlight both areas of strength as well as desired areas of growth in their relationship. Additional sessions are available if the couple so desires. Cost: $85.00 for the inventory and follow-up session(s). Joseph Connolly, SVD, Thomas Griffith, SVD, Robert Jones, SVD, Robert Mallonee, SVD

A ROMANTIC EVENING FOR COUPLES

A candlelight dinner, with opportunities for prayer and reflection, for married and engaged couples. February 14, 2009 (7:00-10:00 pm) Facilitator: Thomas Griffith, SVD Cost: $65.00 per couple

WORLDWIDE MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER

December 5 – 7, 2008 March 6 - 8, 2009 December 4 - 6, 2009 Weekend Retreats Worldwide Marriage Encounter for 35 years has given married couples the opportunity to examine their lives together. It is a unique approach aimed at revitalizing Christian marriage. Through emphasis on communication, marriage Encounter deepens and enriches the joys a couple shares together, no matter how long they have been married. For more information and to register for a Weekend, call: 1-800-710-WWME or visit the Worldwide Marriage Encounter Encounter website.