Can't believe I'm posting in a parenting section in LYN for the first time. Dunno if it's too late coz the first post is more than 2 months ago. Anyway, here it goes.

Before the wedding, a catholic and the his/her spouse must attend a course regardless whether they are both catholic or only one of them is a catholic. The word 'course' might not be a good way to describe it as it's not some exam oriented stuff or something with a deep study. It's mostly just a few session where they prep you for married life. And also for you to find out for yourself if you are indeed ready for marriage.

Unfortunately, to many parents of the non-catholic side, they are afraid that these 'courses' are meant to convert their sons or daughters into catholics. And so, that's why many have doubts and wondered if they will be forced to convert.

I believe they are most likely confused with another course. In catholic church, there is a course called RCIA where they prepare those who wish to convert. But it's a totally different thing from the marriage course and NOT related at all. Infact, they are even held on different schedules in different rooms. So, there's no way the conversion course is linked to the marriage course.

Once the marriage course has been completed, you will be given a cert. With this cert, you can request for a wedding ceremony in a catholic church.

On the wedding day itself, anyone from any religion are welcomed to attend. It's actually a religious event but the non-catholics can just sit down during certain parts. Well, usually either the priest or commentator (someone like an emcee) will let the guest know which part is meant only for catholics. It's sort of like when you are going to a chinese funeral but just sit down and watch when they starting the chanting part.

How do I know? Coz I've already done close to a hundred catholic weddings.

It spans into 7 sessions. Therefore, the number of topics are quite extensive. They are mostly questions being post to you and your fiancé. Questions which are meant to be answered between the couples, not to the facilitators. These are not "right and wrong" stuff. It's not a test. Here are some sample contents:
- What is your definitions of marriage?
- How would you react during a quarrel?
- How well do you know your spouse?
- Do you intend to have children?

As you can see, those questions does not matter whether both parties are catholic or it's a mixed marriage. It's for the couple to discover whether they are truly ready. For example, if you discovered that you want to have children but your fiancé doesn't, then it's time to have a personal discussion on this matter. Then ask yourselves, will this decision affect our marriage?

From observation, most couples enjoy the course. It's a light and friendly session. You can buzz me a pm for more details.