Marriage Preparation of the Religious Kind

The term ‘marriage preparation’ refers to something other than choosing a wedding color scheme, asking friends to be bridesmaids and planning a honeymoon itinerary. As popular TV therapist Dr Phil would say, too many couples plan their wedding and too few plan their marriage.

Different faiths encourage their followers to undergo different methods of marriage preparation. Some insist upon pre-marriage counseling, designed to introduce the couple to the ‘real world’ of marriage.

Dispelling some of the romantic myths of wedded bliss is not intended to burst anyone’s bubble. It’s important however that couples prepare themselves for the reality of living together day to day, paying bills, running a household, raising a family and all the while, continuing to observe their faith.

Catholic marriage preparation differs to that of Scientologists, and again to Hindus and Muslims. Interfaith couples have decisions to make before they can even begin to follow the instructions set down by their respective religions … they have to decide which will be the one primarily observed in their household.

Catholicism

The process for Catholic couples is to notify the Parish Priest of their intention to marry and enter into a discussion or conversation with the Priest about their understanding of Catholicism and the role it will play in their married life.

Some Catholic parishes request that couples attend an interview at which the various legal documents will be presented, and their faith readiness will be discussed. The couple might be advised to attend pre-marriage couples counseling, an enjoyable module of talks and exercises that help to understand the challenges they will face, as well as the delight in becoming united in marriage.

Islam

A marriage guidance course is a requirement for Muslim couples to instill in them the skills and knowledge necessary to build a fulfilling family life within the Islamic community. A Certificate of Course Completion is issued, which must be presented to the Registry upon collection of the certificate of marriage.

Considering that a great number of Muslim marriages are arranged, part of the preparation for marriage involves spending time with each other’s families and becoming acquainted. The intended bride and groom do not traditionally get to be alone together to get to know one another.

Scientology

Marriage preparation workshops are held or couples can take a “Starting a Successful Marriage” course which aims to guide the couple in their relationship, toward a fulfilling and equitable union.

Judaism

In the Jewish wedding system, marriage preparation is the second step. It is the betrothal period and can last from one year to many because a bride and groom can be arranged to marry from when they are children. Jewish Marriage Councils exist in Jewish communities the world over to provide counseling, workshops, advice and support. Preventative counseling and courses in assertiveness and social skills can assist engaged couples and newlyweds.

Religion is a significant consideration in marriage preparation for most couples, but even for those who don’t practice any kind of formal religion, preventative counseling to promote a successful relationship can be of abundant benefit.

It’s vital that the couple begin their union on a basis of mutual understanding and common goals. If heading into a marriage were only about flowers, glamorous bridal gowns and multi-tiered cakes, life would be bliss indeed.