"Share the Joy of Your Sacramental Marriage"

Whether your parish is looking to offer a group retreat or work one-on-one with an engaged couple, the Office of Family Life provides the training needed to run a complete marriage preparation program. This includes two courses — God's Plan and Life Skills — plus mentorship. If your parish does not have the resources to run a complete program, these courses can be taken separately based on your parish's needs.

Course 1: God’s Plan 
Online with mentor training included

God's Plan by Ascension immerses couples in the meaning of the sacrament of marriage and the Theology of the Body. Through activities and reflections, couples are encouraged to discuss and apply God's principles to their lives.

God’s Plan Facilitator Training is composed of two phases.

Part one: Two hours of video content to be watched at your own pace. 

Part two: The second module covers the program material in depth, along with proven best practices for presenting it effectively to engaged couples.

Course 2: Life Skills
Hybrid of online and in person with mentor training included. This training is best for married couples.

Life Skills for Couples by Ascension equips couples with practical tools and wisdom to navigate the realities of married life. Topics such as Communicating Love and Resolving Conflict are explored through the lens of virtue and the vocation of marriage.

Life Skills for Couples Facilitator Training is offered in two phases.
Part one: Two hours of video content to be watched at your own pace. 
Part two: Couples attend an in-person training session to address delivery of content, retreat experience, and Q&A.

 Mentor Training
Online

Engaged couples benefit greatly from the support of an experienced mentor couple, both during engagement and throughout their married life. Through mentorship, couples have the opportunity to build bonds with their mentor couple and parish community, and come to see the Church as a resource for ongoing marital support. This program allows couples to progress at their own pace.

 Separated and Divorced Support Training
In person or online

The Catholic's Divorce Survival Guide will equip facilitators with practical tools and resources to start and run a support group — including guidance on how to minister emotionally and spiritually to those who are separated or divorced.

Additional Opportunities

If your parish has special needs as you try to begin offering marriage preparation or to train your married facilitators, we can help you design a program that fits those needs.