What are Catholic marriage preparation classes?
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Simply put, Pre-Cana is a marriage preparation course, class, or consultation for couples who will be married in a Catholic church. Cana is the name of the town in which performed the miracle of turning water into wine; see John 2:1-11.
What are the Pre-Cana Questions?
The 8 Questions Premarital Counselors Always Ask

- Why Should You Consider Seeing a Premarital Counselor.
- What Do You Appreciate Most About Your Partner and Your Relationship?
- Are You on the Same Page About Having Children?
- How Will You Handle Your Relationships With Your Families?
- What Does Spirituality Mean to You?
What topics are discussed in a Catholic marriage preparation program?
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops considers the following topics as “must-have conversations” before couples marry:
- Spirituality/faith.
- Conflict resolution skills.
- Careers.
- Finances.
- Intimacy/cohabitation.
- Children.
- Commitment.
Is Pre-Cana mandatory?
Do you have to do Pre-Cana at your own church? No. You’re also not required to do it in your own diocese even.

How long should you date before getting married Catholic?
There’s a reason most Catholic priests won’t marry a couple earlier than six months out, because you need time for any facades to fade or secrets to come to light. (And obviously, a lack of trust after a while of dating is a red flag.)
Can non Catholics do Pre-Cana?
Unfortunately, as a Catholic, they cannot attend both churches. They must be raised to believe the Catholic faith. If, when adults, they decide it’s not for them, that’s up to them.
How long is a pre marriage course?
9 Months – Attend the Marriage Preparation Course, Paperwork ACCORD has been involved in the provision of this service for over 50 years. Meet with your priest to prepare the paperwork. The Pre Nuptial inquiry form has to be completed by both parties in the presence of their priest.
How long does Pre-Cana take?
Pre-Cana is the name given to the process for marriage preparation and requires at least six (6) months.
What marriage preparation classes does the Diocese of Trenton offer?
The Diocese of Trenton offers a variety of marriage preparation classes to suit the individual tastes and needs of today’s engaged couples. These include parish Pre-Cana workshops, diocesan Pre-Cana classes, and mentor couple sessions in the parish.
How do I register for the Marriage Preparation Program?
After meeting with your priest/deacon, click here to register (or login) for the Archdiocese of New York Marriage Preparation Program. The cost is $150 per couple. Please note that class size is limited and fill up quickly. It is ideal to complete your online premarital inventory before attending your Pre-Cana.
What is Catholic couple checkup and prepare/enrich?
Catholic Couple Checkup and Prepare/Enrich are part of the archdiocesan marriage preparation program and are selected when you meet with your priest/deacon and then recorded at marriage preparation registration. Online Modules: These include short educational videos with follow-up worksheets.
How do I get married in the Catholic Church outside the US?
IMPORTANT: If you are celebrating your Catholic wedding outside the U.S., you must still complete the entire marriage preparation process required by the Catholic Church and must begin the process by contacting your local parish (refer to the Marriage Preparation Checklist mentioned below).