▪ https://www.catholicmarriageprep.com/ (for couples who are preparing for marriage long-distance, or for couples who are getting married later in life)

Cana II (for Second Marriages)

Couples from the Diocese of Toledo are welcome to join the one-day Genesis Retreat hosted by the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. This retreat is intended for those getting married following a death of a spouse or an annulment, and is located just North of Dayton. See registration here: https://www.centerforthenewevangelization.org/event/genesis-ii-a-pre-cana-retreat-2

If unable to attend the Genesis Retreat, the couple may complete the Online Pre-Cana – Theology of the Body Marriage Prep Course at CatholicMarriagePrep.com. At the beginning of the course there will be a “Know You Better” form for the couple to fill out so that CatholicMarriagePrep.com can be informed that this is a second marriage. They will then be able to assign a mentor couple more suited to teach older couples and/or second marriages.

If you're looking for Catholic workshops or resources for engaged couples getting remarried, here are some helpful options:

Engaged Couples Workshops
The Diocese of Toledo offer workshops designed for engaged couples. While these may primarily cater to first-time marriages, they can still provide valuable preparation for remarriage. Check out this link for workshops offered by the Diocese of Toledo: Engaged Couples Workshop.

Resources for Second Marriages
The website For Your Marriage offers resources specifically for couples entering second marriages. It includes guidance on unique challenges and opportunities in remarriage.

Retreats for Second Marriages
Some dioceses, like the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, have hosted retreats for couples preparing for remarriage. These retreats address topics unique to second marriages. Check their website for updates: Marriage and Family Life.

One-on-One Meetings with Pastors
Many Catholic pastors meet individually with couples preparing for remarriage to offer tailored spiritual and practical guidance. Contact your parish priest for more information.

Best Practices For Engaged Couples

Catholic engaged couples, preparing for marriage is a profound journey that involves both spiritual and practical aspects. Here are some best practices to consider. By following these best practices, Catholic engaged couples can deepen their relationship with each other and with God as they prepare for the sacrament of marriage.

1. Participate in Pre-Cana Preparation

Pre-Cana refers to marriage preparation courses or retreats offered by the Catholic Church. It helps couples understand the sacrament of marriage, communication, conflict resolution, and the Church's teachings on family life. This process can include group sessions with other couples and one-on-one meetings with a priest or mentor couple as well as online options.

2. Nurture Their Spiritual Lives Together

Praying together daily: Prayer helps couples grow spiritually and invites God into their relationship. They should consider praying the rosary, attending Mass, or reading Scripture together.
Going to Mass regularly: Worshiping together strengthens the spiritual bond. Couples should aim to attend Mass every Sunday and on holy days of obligation.
Receive the Sacraments: Frequent reception of the Eucharist and Reconciliation keeps the couple spiritually grounded and open to God's grace.

3. Practice Chastity

The Church teaches that engaged couples should practice chastity before marriage, which involves abstaining from sexual relations. This helps foster deep emotional and spiritual intimacy, rooted in self-giving love and respect for one another’s dignity.
Use this time to grow in other forms of affection and learn to communicate deeply without the physical aspect dominating the relationship.

4. Discuss Key Topics and Values

Faith and Church involvement: Couples should talk about individual faith journeys and how they plan to live their faith together.
Finances: Discuss financial goals, spending habits, and how couples plan to manage money together.
Children: Talk about views on family size, parenting, and openness to life, following the Church’s teaching on procreation.
Roles and responsibilities: Clarify expectations regarding household duties, career ambitions, and family life.
Conflict resolution: Understand each other’s approach to handling disagreements and practice forgiveness and patience.

5. Learn About Natural Family Planning (NFP)

The Church encourages couples to be informed about Natural Family Planning (NFP), which respects the Church’s teachings on contraception while allowing couples to responsibly plan their families. Learning NFP can help foster better communication and respect for God’s design of human fertility.

6. Seek Mentorship

Seek guidance from an experienced married couple or a spiritual mentor. Having someone to offer support and wisdom can be invaluable as couples navigate the transition to married life.

7. Communicate Openly and Honestly

Strong communication is key to a successful marriage. Couples should practice active listening, be honest about their feelings, and work together to resolve conflicts respectfully.

8. Plan The Wedding Mass Thoughtfully

When planning the wedding, focus on the sacramental aspect. Couples should work with their priest to choose readings, prayers, and music that reflect their faith and the solemnity of the occasion. The Mass itself should be central to the wedding day.

9. Be Open to God’s Will

Marriage is a vocation and a journey of holiness. Be open to how God might be calling each couple to serve one another and others. Trust in His guidance, even when challenges arise.

10. Continue Learning

Marriage preparation is ongoing. Attend marriage enrichment retreats or courses even after the wedding, and continue growing in faith and relationship with one another.