Best Practices in Adult Faith Formation. - Diocese of Pittsburgh

Couples Preparing for MarriageDiocesan Pre-Marriage ProgramDescriptionThe Diocesan Pre-Marriage Program is divided into 4 two and a half hour sessions. Each session has a themethat is approached theologically and how to apply the Theology to a marriage. The first session’s theme is“The Sacrament of Marriage.” A priest or a permanent deacon delivers this message about the Theology ofthe Sacrament of Marriage. After a short break, a married couple talks about living out their marriage as asacrament. They explain how they experience the grace that is received by receiving the Sacrament.The second class focuses on communication. Again, there are two speakers who present the information. Apriest or permanent deacon talks about the importance of prayer: community, individual, and within thefamily / couple. The couple presents conflict resolution. They talk about their own marriage and somedifficulties they may have faced with their communication. The couple takes romance, disillusionment andjoy and explains how marriages reflect this pattern at different times.The third class covers morality and natural family planning. Again, there is a priest or a permanent deacon tocover the morality aspect. He covers subjects such as premarital sex, cohabitation, in vitro fertilization andinfidelity, as well as contraception. The couple, who is a trained NFP promoter or teacher, gives a witnesstalk for NFP.The fourth week is termed, “Journey of Life.” There are two talks during this session that cover thevocational aspect of marriage. A priest or permanent deacon discusses the vocation of marriage. The couplespeaks of their journey and life long commitment. Interspersed among the presentations, a series of little“talks” occur on the topic of finance and other related topics.A fifth NFP class is offered to all couples who attend our program. The fee is an additional $30 for eachcouple. They can attend an informational session on how to use NFP followed up with chart reviews.ObjectiveTo help engaged couples build a sustaining relationship for their marriage, one which is rooted in their faith,God’s love, and their love for each other.Who Should/Can AttendEngaged couples.Time FrameThe classes are from 7 – 9:30 p.m.Cost$60.00 for Pre-Marriage ClassContact: Debbie AndrulonisParish: Diocese of PittsburghPhone: 412-456-3114Email: familylife@diopitt.org