Initial Concerns
Do I Have to be Catholic?
No. Catholic Engaged Encounter does present God as a focus for a successful marriage. While the weekend will be presented in a Catholic expression of faith, each weekend is open to couples of all faiths. The opportunities of the weekend go well beyond the boundaries of any one faith expression. We are not going to try to convert you or pressure you in any way. Couples where neither person is Catholic are welcome also.
Does Engaged Encounter Satisfy the Catholic Church’s Requirement for Marriage Preparation?
Within the Diocese of Reno, Engaged Encounter is endorsed as fulfilling this requirement. Our program is also frequently accepted in other Dioceses and states. Whether in Reno or elsewhere, your priest always has the final say on what he will accept for your marriage preparation. Please check with the priest who will officiate your wedding before registering. At the conclusion of the weekend, you will receive a certificate to show your priest verifying your participation.
What if We Are Civilly Married?
After you meet with your priest and he schedules your wedding, you are welcome on the weekend as you prepare for your sacramental marriage within the Church. If you intend to just stay civilly married, then we suggest a Marriage Encounter Weekend. This is a similar weekend oriented to improving communication for couples already married.
Do We Have to Speak In Front of the Group?
No. Engaged Encounter is non-threatening. You will be asked to introduce yourself and your fiancé. This is the only time you are required to speak in front of the group. There will be only two group discussion periods, one short and one longer. Participation is voluntary. No one is forced to speak out. The weekend is not group therapy. Your privacy will be respected. The weekend is not counseling nor is it based on group discussions. The weekend is designed for the two of you to have quality time for private discussions.
What does a weekend cost?
The current cost is $220 per couple. This fee covers your materials, refreshments, and meals for each of you. This fee can be paid by check or money order. Sorry, due to expenses, we no longer accept credit card payments. We are unable to hold a spot for you on a given weekend date until payment is received. If you make a payment by mail you will receive an e-mail confirming your registration. Part of this fee is NON REFUNDABLE. Please see the “Weekend Ground Rules” page for details.
Scholarships are available. If you need assistance, please have your priest call our Reservation Couple @ 775-853-6318 to begin the scholarship process. No couple will ever be turned away because of lack of funds.