Congratulations on your engagement! Preparing for marriage in the Catholic Church is an exciting journey that goes beyond just planning your wedding day. It’s about building a strong foundation for your life together. This PreCana will better equip you and your future spouse to set a firm foundation for your marriage.
Before You Register
Here are a few important things to keep in mind:
- We strongly suggest you and your partner attend this marriage preparation weekend together. It’s a wonderful way to begin the deep and meaningful conversations that will shape your life together.
- Meet with Your Priest: All couples marrying in the Catholic Church must begin their sacramental preparation at least 9-12 months before the wedding. This begins with meeting your local parish priest—even if you're planning a destination wedding. Your priest will guide you through Church requirements, both universal and local. You will work together to prepare for the Sacrament, both spiritually and materially.
- Sacrament of Reconciliation: It is highly recommended for Catholics to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation before the wedding. This will help you approach the altar in a state of grace, open to the blessings of the Lord.
- PreCana Certificate: You will receive a certificate upon full participation and completion of PreCana. Please note that attendance at all sessions and activities is required to receive your certificate. This certificate will need to be given to the priest preparing your marriage paperwork.
Schedule
- Check-in: Friday, October 30th, 2026 9:00 - 9:30 AM
- Conclusion: Sunday, November 1, 2026 at 2:00 PM
- Venue: St Mary's Retreat House
14230 Main St, Lemont, IL 60439
- Please plan to schedule Sunday departing flights from 5 PM onwards
Accommodations & Meals
- Your registration fee covers lodging and all meals for the weekend.
- Everyone will be staying on-site—for safety and retreat integrity, no one will be permitted to leave the campus during the weekend.
- Transportation is not provided, so please plan accordingly.
Registration
The registration fee is $400 per person. Please select whether you are registering as an individual or as a couple.
We strongly recommend registering together as a couple. Space is limited to 40 participants. We encourage you to register early to reserve your spot.
Cancellation & Late Registration Policies
- If you need to cancel your registration, a $75 per person cancellation fee applies to cover administrative and preparation costs.
- The remaining balance will be refunded only if cancellation is requested at least 10 days before the retreat start date.
- No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within 10 days of the event.
- Registrations within 2 weeks of the retreat may be subject to a $50 per person late registration fee, depending on availability.
- Exceptions to the cancellation policy, including the non-refundable $75 fee, may be considered in cases of emergencies. Please contact us at familyapostolate.chicago@gmail.com to discuss your specific situation.
What to Expect
This weekend draws upon the best in contemporary psychology, practical wisdom from the experience of married couples, and the beauty of the Catholic Church’s teachings on marriage and family life in order to give you the best foundation on which to build a successful marriage. It aims to provide each couple with a reflective and in-depth preparation for a joyful, faith-filled marriage—based on love that not only endures but actually grows stronger year after year. We will participate in Qurbana, have an opportunity for confession, and worship our Lord in Adoration.
This weekend is for YOU—to help you and your fiancé(e) lay a strong foundation for your marriage.
Need Help?
- Accommodations or travel questions?
Contact: Mr. Thomas (Lalichen) Alumparambil — (312)-636-5904
- Questions about PreCana or registration?
Email: familyapostolate.chicago@gmail.com