A guide to Catholic marriage preparation — what it is, when to begin, and how to approach it well.
Pre-Cana is the marriage preparation the Church asks of every engaged couple before the Sacrament of Matrimony. It takes its name from the wedding at Cana, where Christ worked His first miracle — at a marriage feast, at His mother’s word.
It is not a hurdle between you and a date on the calendar. It is the Church taking your marriage seriously before you make a vow that cannot be taken back. Couples who approach it that way tend to find it the most worthwhile part of the engagement.
Speak with your parish priest as soon as you are engaged — before you book a venue, and certainly before you print invitations. Many dioceses ask couples to begin preparation at least six months before the wedding, and your priest will set out exactly what your parish requires.
Programs differ, but most address the same essentials: the sacramental nature of marriage, communication and resolving conflict, finances, the Church’s teaching on intimacy and openness to life, and how to build a home in which faith is lived rather than merely professed. Many include a premarital inventory that gives you and your priest an honest picture of where you already agree — and where you have work to do.
A parish program or weekend retreat puts you in the room with other couples and married mentors. An online course lets you work through the material together, at your own pace — a real advantage when you live apart, travel for work, or are marrying at a church far from home.
One caution: acceptance of online courses varies by diocese. Always confirm with your priest or parish office before you enroll.
PreCanaCourse is a self-paced online program taught by Rev. George Boronat, with video teaching, Scripture reflection, and discussion guides for the two of you. It is available in English and Spanish.
Couples who come through my site receive 10% off with this code:
UZ4CTTKHConfirm with your parish that it accepts an online course before enrolling.
Couples who have been well prepared arrive at the altar differently. They know what the exchange of consent means. They know why the nuptial blessing matters. And it shows — in their faces, in their stillness, in the way they receive Communion for the first time as husband and wife.
Those are the moments I am there to witness. If you would like to understand how I approach the Mass itself, read how I photograph the sacrament, or see the weddings I have been honored to document.
I accept a limited number of weddings each year and respond personally within two business days.
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