Archdiocese of Denver - Marriage Preparation

Preparing for Marriage
in the Archdiocese of Denver
An overview of the process and a schedule of archdiocesan classes & programs

Marriage preparation must begin at least 8-12 months prior to a couple's anticipated wedding date. The Archdiocese of Denver divides this period into proximate (the first several months) and immediate (the last two months) preparation. During this time, couples prepare for their sacrament through a manageable series of meetings and educational workshops.

Here's an overview of the process and the time frame:

Proximate Preparation	Time Frame
Schedule an initial meeting with your priest or deacon. Be sure to schedule this appointment before booking a reception site, etc.	8-12 months in advance of your desired wedding date.
Complete a marriage preparation inventory at your parish. This tool is designed to assess the strengths of your relationship and areas that may need growth. Depending on your parish, you may also meet with a married couple trained to help you review the inventory.	Within first few weeks of proximate preparation.
Attend a one-day couple's workshop called God's Plan for a Joy-Filled Marriage. These classes are offered at various locations throughout the archdiocese. Click here to see a schedule and register.	Within first few months of proximate preparation.
The "life skills" session of marriage preparation is completed in one of the following ways: 1) Catholic Engaged Encounter weekend. 2) Parish based "life skills" workshop. 3) Private meeting with your priest/deacon, or married mentor couple to review pre-marital inventory (FOCCUS test). The life-skills session may also be completed by taking the Evening Marriage Preparation Program offered by Catholic Marriage Preparation, Inc. The life-skills workshop is intended to help you fine-tune some practical skills such as handling conflict, finances, decision making, etc. See schedule of the Catholic Engaged Encounter Dates.	Anytime throughout proximate (or immediate) preparation
Natural Family Planning instruction. Call the NFP Hotline, 303.715.3239, for the current schedule of classes and registration information. To see a current schedule online, please click here.	This should be scheduled within the first few weeks of proximate preparation and completed before the wedding date.
Immediate Preparation	Time Frame
This period of preparation entails a final meeting with your priest or deacon and a time to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation. Time is also devoted to planning the wedding liturgy.	Last 2 months prior to the celebration of marriage.