When special circumstances suggest the need for further pre-marriage counseling, the priest or deacon will refer the couple to an approved archdiocesan counselor. Counseling is required in these situations:

1. When either party is under 19 years of age.
2. When the woman is pregnant prior to public engagement.
3. When the priest or deacon considers there to be a lack of readiness on the part of either party.
4. When required by the Chancery upon completion of a marriage case.

At Family Ministries Counseling Services, pre-marriage counseling consists of a series of three or more sessions. They are designed primarily to help the couple evaluate their relationship and secondarily to assist the parish priest or deacon in determining the couple’s readiness for marriage. Contact the counseling services at 502/636-1044.