How to do Pre-Cana in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia

Ask your priest or deacon which preparation steps apply to you and when each should be completed. If your wedding is sooner, contact the parish now and explain your circumstances.

Before choosing a course, ask:

• Which Pre-Cana options can we use?
• When should we complete our course?
• Which documents should we gather?
• Are there other meetings or preparation steps we should schedule?

The archdiocese’s marriage preparation resources include online courses and in-person programs. Its online listings include Living Our Faith in Love® from The Marriage Group.

Confirm your selection with the priest or deacon preparing you for marriage before enrolling.

For local classes and retreats, consult the official archdiocesan resources and contact the parish or organizer for availability.

Living Our Faith in Love® offers Catholic marriage preparation online, with content personalized to your circumstances.

The course includes video presentations, His & Hers Discussion Guides, and opportunities to talk through what you are learning. It takes approximately eight hours, depending on your conversations, with 12 months of access.

Topics include communication, finances, family of origin, sexuality and intimacy, Natural Family Planning, and the theology and purpose of marriage.

Couples in different locations can each log in and discuss the material by phone or video call. After completing the required course elements, you can download your certificate to share with your priest or deacon.

Pre-Cana is one part of preparing for marriage with your parish. Ask about the meetings, documents, and other steps needed for your wedding.

Discuss whether a premarital inventory is appropriate and how you will review it. Ask about Natural Family Planning education and whether your parish recommends particular instruction.

Living Our Faith in Love® includes NFP Life®. Ask your priest or deacon whether any additional instruction is needed for your preparation.

As you prepare, make time to revisit the questions that matter to your daily life together. What have you learned about each other? Which conversations need more time? Where would guidance from your priest or deacon help?

Bring those questions to your parish meetings. Your preparation can help you begin habits of conversation and reflection that continue after the wedding.