Weddings & Marriage Preparation

Wedding

Congratulations on your engagement! As you are taking your first step on the path of love, we are here to assist you on your journey.

“Love is indeed ‘ecstasy,’ not in the sense of a moment of intoxication, but rather as a journey, and ongoing exodus out of the closed inward-looking self towards its liberation through self-giving, and thus towards authentic self-discovery and indeed the discovery of God” (Benedict XVI Deus Caritas Est 6).

Completion of the following steps provides you with necessary preparation for the Sacrament of Matrimony in the 7 Steps to a rewarding Marriage preparation Experience Diocese of Phoenix.

The Diocese of Phoenix mandates a nine-month preparation process effective January 1, 2010.

Step 1: Meet with your Pastor (Before you set a wedding date)

Step 2: Marriage Preparation Inventory 
When: As soon as possible after meeting with your pastor
The Marriage Preparation Inventory is called the FOCCUS.

Step 3: Married Life Skills Training 
When: Seven to eight months before the wedding

Love for Life Engaged Weekend - The Diocese offers classes at the Diocesan Pastoral Center in downtown Phoenix and at other locations. Registration available online ($135).

Step 4: God's Plan for a Joy-Filled Marriage
When: Six to eight months before the wedding

Step 5: Natural Family Planning Instruction
When: Four to six months before the wedding
Click here for parish-based NFP classes: 
You may find alternative classes offered by the diocese. Please visit the Office of NFP website ($100).

Step 6: Sacrament of Reconciliation
When: Before the wedding, as necessary

Step 7: Final Meeting with your Pastor 
When: Four to six weeks before the wedding