What is PreCana?
PreCana is a marriage preparation class hosted by Family Ministries, an agency of the Archdiocese of Chicago. PreCana fulfills one of the steps to marry within the Archdiocese of Chicago. Couples that are not planning to marry within the Catholic Church but wish to receive adequate preparation for marriage may also attend.
Where is PreCana?
We have approximately 15 locations throughout the Chicagoland area hosting marriage preparation classes. See our Marriage Preparation Classes page for locations and dates.
When is PreCana?
PreCanas take place most Saturdays throughout the year. Locations will vary. Dates, locations, and availability are provided for specific classes on the Marriage Preparation Classes page.
What is the difference between PreCana and Special PreCana?
PreCana is a marriage preparation class for a couple entering into their first marriage, with no children, and are not living together.
Special PreCana is more valuable to a couple when one or both are in their 30s, have lived together, have a child together from their relationship, are civilly married for less than six months, or were previously married. Special PreCana covers the same topics as regular PreCana, but with more emphasis on the concerns of a more experienced couple.
How much does PreCana cost?
At present, registration is $190 per couple.
What does the registration fee include?
The conference fee pays for the cost of the program, continental breakfast, handouts, workbooks, resources including a marriage cd and perpetual calendar, a Christian Sexuality or NFP 101: Introduction to Natural Family Planning class, and site rental. After your marriage, your PreCana fee entitles you to attend two newly-married continuing education workshops for free in your first year of marriage, and a monthly ENewsletter with topics to help new marriages.
What if I can’t attend on Saturdays?
All of our PreCanas are on Saturdays. If you absolutely are never able to have a Saturday free, please discuss this with the priest who will marry you—he may have an alternative solution.
Is there a dress code?
The program itself is informal; we encourage to you dress casually.
What happens at the class?
A married couple will lead you through the day. Through short talks, sharing of the facilitators’ own experiences, group exercises and personal reflection, you are guided through topics useful for a successful marriage. Some of the topics presented are: communication and fair fighting, adjustments, mutual decision-making, the elements of effective communication, conflict management, intimacy and sexual expression, finances, sacramentality, goal setting, the extended family, and interfaith marriage.
How long does the session last?
PreCanas are scheduled to begin at 9 AM and end at 4:30 PM. Please plan to arrive early for registration.
What should we bring with us?
All materials are included in the registration fee and will be provided at the event except for lunch. You can either bring your own lunch or plan to purchase lunch in the area.
Is lunch provided?
A light breakfast spread will be available in the morning but you should plan your own arrangements for lunch, either bringing it with you, or purchasing it in the area. There is an hour allowed for lunch.
How many months in advance should we register for PreCana?
Classes fill up quickly. You should register as soon as you can.
When should we attend PreCana?
Family Ministries recommends attending PreCana at least two months before your wedding, but no more than twelve months in advance. It is more beneficial if taken earlier in the engagement process.
Are children or relatives allowed to attend?
No, PreCana events are designed only for the engaged couple.
Do we have to be there for the entire session?
Yes, you receive your proof of attendance at the end of the day.
My future spouse cannot attend the session; is that ok?
PreCana is an interactive day needing participation and discussion with couples. Both must attend the class. If one cannot attend due to military deployment, you must discuss this with the priest who is marrying you.
We live in Chicago but will be married outside the area. What do we do?
First, speak to the priest that will marry you. Most dioceses accept our PreCanas as marriage preparation but you must check with him to be sure. After completion we can send an official document stating that you attended PreCana to your priest directly.
Who can attend PreCana?
All couples, regardless of religion or location, planning to marry within one year are welcome to attend our marriage preparation classes.
Who facilitates the session?
The presenting team is a married couple eager to help soon-to-be newlyweds. Between their own personal experience and professional training, you should find the facilitators a great asset in preparing for marriage.
Will a priest lead the PreCana?
Sometimes a priest may welcome a group, but they are not part of the marriage preparation class. The trained presenting team will be a married couple.
What if one of us is not Catholic? Should we both attend?
The program is designed for both the bride and groom, regardless of your religious traditions. Both are expected to participate.
What is I am marrying out of the country?
Different countries have different rules for getting married, and you must follow both the civil and religious rules of the country. Check with the priest who is marrying you for what is required, and be sure to allow several months to get the paperwork taken care of. Click here for more information.
What is the best way to register?
You may register online or call us at 312.534.8201 between 9 AM and 4:30 PM to register by phone.
Should I attend the Marrying with Stepchildren if our children are adults?
Even if you are forming a stepfamily with grown children, this will affect your marriage. We recommend attendance at a Marrying with Stepchildren PreCana. |
