If you’re planning a church wedding in the Philippines, one of the requirements you’ll need to complete is the Pre-Cana seminar. At first, it might sound like just another formality, but this marriage preparation course is actually a great way to strengthen your relationship and get valuable insights about married life. Here’s everything you need to know about Pre-Cana in the Philippines, along with some tips to help you make the most of it.
What is Pre-Cana?
Pre-Cana is a marriage preparation seminar required by the Catholic Church before a couple can get married. It’s named after the Wedding at Cana, the biblical event where Jesus performed his first miracle. Think of it as a crash course on marriage, covering important topics like communication, conflict resolution, family life, and spirituality. The seminar is led by priests, married couples, or professional counselors who provide real-life advice on how to build a strong and lasting marriage.
How Long is the Pre-Cana Seminar?
The duration of Pre-Cana varies depending on the church. Some churches offer it as a one-day seminar, while others conduct it over a weekend retreat. In some cases, parishes provide several weekly sessions that couples need to attend over a month. Due to modern needs, some churches also offer online Pre-Cana programs, making it easier for busy couples to fulfill the requirement.
If you and your partner are living abroad but still plan to marry in the Philippines, check with your local parish if an international Pre-Cana seminar is accepted by your chosen church.
Topics Covered in Pre-Cana
Each church may have slightly different topics, but in general, expect to discuss:
- Marriage and Sacrament – Understanding the spiritual and religious significance of marriage.
- Roles and Responsibilities – What it means to be a husband and wife in the eyes of the Church and society.
- Family Life and Parenting – A look into raising a family and handling responsibilities as future parents.
- Communication and Conflict Resolution – How to work through disagreements in a healthy and loving way.
- Financial Management – Tips on handling finances as a married couple, including budgeting, savings, and future planning.
- Intimacy and Fidelity – The importance of trust, commitment, and faithfulness in marriage.
- Dealing with Challenges – How to navigate obstacles such as in-law relationships, work-life balance, and personal struggles.
- Faith in Marriage – The role of God and the Church in your relationship, and how faith strengthens your bond as a couple.
Some Pre-Cana sessions also include personal testimonies from married couples who share their experiences—the good and the bad—to help engaged couples prepare for real-life marriage.
How to Register for Pre-Cana in the Philippines
To join a Pre-Cana seminar, follow these steps:
Contact Your Parish – Visit or call your church to ask about their Pre-Cana schedule, registration process, and requirements.
Prepare Required Documents – Some churches ask for baptismal and confirmation certificates before allowing you to enroll.
Pay the Registration Fee – Fees vary per parish, but it usually ranges from ₱500 to ₱3,000 depending on the venue, duration, and inclusions.
Attend the Seminar Together – Both the bride and groom must be present, and in most cases, attendance is required for the entire duration.
Receive Your Certificate – Once completed, you’ll get a certificate that you need to submit to the church as proof of attendance.
Some churches may also require additional courses, such as Discovery Weekend or Catholic Engaged Encounter, which are more in-depth marriage preparation programs.
Tips for a Smooth Pre-Cana Experience
Register Early – Some parishes have limited slots, so book your schedule as soon as possible.
Choose a Convenient Schedule – Find a session that works best for both of you, especially if you have work or travel commitments.
Be Open-Minded – Even if you think you already know everything about marriage, Pre-Cana can offer fresh insights and valuable lessons.
Take Notes – Some discussions might become useful references when facing real-life challenges in marriage.
Participate in Discussions – Ask questions and engage with facilitators and other couples to make the most of the experience.
Reflect and Communicate – Use the seminar as an opportunity to discuss your thoughts and expectations with your partner.
Enjoy the Moment – Instead of treating it as just another requirement, view it as a meaningful milestone in your journey toward marriage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pre-Cana
1. Do all churches require Pre-Cana?
Yes, most Catholic churches in the Philippines require it, but the format and duration may vary. Some churches allow alternative programs like Discovery Weekend or Engaged Encounter.
2. What if we miss our scheduled seminar?
You may have to rebook for another session or find another parish offering an earlier schedule. Check with your church to avoid delays in your wedding timeline.
3. Can we take Pre-Cana online?
Some churches now offer online Pre-Cana seminars, but it’s best to confirm if your church accepts virtual certificates before enrolling.
4. Can we take Pre-Cana in a different parish?
Yes, but make sure the certificate from that parish will be recognized by your wedding church.
5. Do non-Catholics need to attend Pre-Cana?
If one partner is not Catholic, some churches may have alternative requirements or additional counseling sessions.
Building a Stronger Marriage Beyond Pre-Cana
While Pre-Cana is a great foundation for married life, it’s only the beginning. A successful marriage requires continuous learning, patience, and love. Keep talking to each other, pray together, and never stop working on your relationship. Marriage is not just about a beautiful wedding day—it’s about building a lifetime of love, trust, and partnership.
So, as you go through Pre-Cana, take it seriously, learn what you can, and most importantly, enjoy the journey of preparing for your life together!