"The very preparation for Christian marriage is itself a journey of faith. It is a special opportunity for the engaged to rediscover and deepen the faith received in baptism and nourished by their Christian upbringing. In this way they come to recognize and freely accept their vocation to follow Christ and to serve the kingdom of God in the married state." Familiaris Consortio #51

Schedule for 2012

Schedule for 2013

Getting Started:

Congratulations on your engagement! The Sacrament of Marriage is a beautiful gift from God, which requires preparation to receive.  The very first step you need to take is to talk with the priest or deacon who will be witnessing your marriage.  He will inform you of whether your parish has a pre-Cana (marriage preparation) program, or direct you to a program offered by the Archdiocesan Office for Life, Family and Laity.

You should inform your priest of your plans for marriage as soon as possible after you become engaged. Since marriage preparation programs fill up quickly, it is recommended that you register for one as soon as possible.

Things to do:

1. Contact your parish priest to learn all of the requirements for getting married in the Church.


2. Sign up for and attend a marriage preparation program.


3. Communicate openly and often as a couple about all the expectations, concerns, questions and hopes that arise about your life together as a married couple during this important time of preparation for marriage.

Please contact us with questions or concerns:

Office for Life, Family and Laity
215-587-0500 • famlife@adphila.org