As Soon As You Are Engaged (at least six months before wedding)

• Make an appointment with your parish priest or deacon and set a tentative wedding date.

• Ask for parish guidelines and diocesan policy for review before first meeting.

Within two weeks of your engagement

• Meet with the priest or deacon to complete prenuptial investigation.
• Review parish guidelines and diocesan policy.
• Take the Fully Engaged inventory.
• Arrange for the Solemnization of Engagement ceremony.

At least three to six months before your wedding

• Attend a marriage preparation course.
• Meet with priest, deacon, or sponsor couple to discuss the Fully Engaged inventory (approximately four to five meetings).
• Spend time as a couple reading and discussing, "Marriage in Christ: The Sacrament of Faithful, Lifelong Love," Bishop John Kinney's pastoral letter to engaged couples.
• Supply celebrant with a current copy of baptismal certificate if marrying outside the parish of your baptism.

Three months to six weeks before your wedding

• Prayerfully select Scripture readings, petitions, and music.

Forty-five days to one month before your wedding

• Meet with priest, deacon, or parish staff to discuss details of wedding celebration.

Either a few days prior to your wedding or after your rehearsal

• Participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation (for Catholic parties).