Formal preparation for marriage in the Roman Catholic Church ordinarily begins at least six months prior to the anticipated date of marriage. The process generally involves the following steps:

1. Initial contact with a priest to discuss the process of marriage preparation and arrange the necessary meetings. The date of the ceremony will not likely be set until after the first formal consultation with the priest performing the ceremony.

2. Paperwork to establish residence, religious practice, freedom to marry, and any need for permissions or dispensations related to irregular situations.

3. Attendance at some type of workshop with other couples preparing for marriage. Options include a day-long seminar in a lecture format or a weekend retreat, both meant to examine many aspects of Christian Marriage, both theological and practical. Couples who choose the retreat format find it more meaningful, but most couples choose the day-long seminar because of its convenience.

4. A survey and comparison of individual perceptions regarding the various facets of Christian Marriage. Areas of agreement, disagreement, and uncertainty are identified.

5. Discussion of the results of the survey, along with the sacramental nature of Christian Marriage.

6. Planning of the marriage ceremony to include selection of readings, music, and participants.

The Campus Minister is able to assist you in the completion of the necessary paperwork and can guide you through the entire preparation process, even if another priest is performing the ceremony in another location. Do not hesitate to contact the Campus Ministry Office or email the Campus Minister if you have any questions.