This book is currently out of print; it will be available October 1.
The One in Christ Marriage Seminar provides priests, deacons, and lay facilitators with an all-inclusive and comprehensive Pre-Cana program, which is perfect for marriage preparation or weekend retreats. One in Christ presents both the sacramental theology and the practical “tools” of Christian Marriage so that couples reach an understanding of how marriage is an opportunity to assist the other in attaining Heaven and what that means for their lives together here on earth.
The seminar is ideal for engaged couples, those who are convalidating their marriage, and couples who would like a refresher course on marriage. It is designed to be flexible. For example, it can be presented in one weekend or over a period of two to three weekends. It has also been used to prepare individual couples or couples in small groups.
The Facilitator's Manual comes with a DVD of videos that can be used at various points of the seminar.
While marriage is a natural institution, created neither by the state nor by the Church, it is protected by the state and sanctified by the Church. Part of the Church’s care for marriage expresses itself in programs preparing men and women to enter into the state of marriage today. A sacrament of the Church by the will and action of Christ, marriage demands a personal formation that will enable married couples to grow in sanctity together. That is the purpose of One in Christ. . . . Chastity, fidelity and indissolubility might seem impossible, unless one comes to rely upon God and count on His grace. This book assures couples that God is more interested in the success of their marriage than they are. Preparation for marriage includes lessons in communication, in common understanding about finances and the raising of children, about where to live and dozens of other practical considerations. Most basically, however, marriage preparation should inspire a man and a woman to seek “the goodness, integrity, holiness and salvation” of their spouse. I hope and pray that all couples who make use of this text will experience a faith-deepening conversion that will remain with them each day of their married lives.
+ Francis Cardinal George, OMI
Archbishop of Chicago
