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April 01, 2007

FAQs for Wedding Requirement

What if I have to take NFP classes as a marriage requirement?

Please read ALL the FAQs below before you call a teaching couple with a question.

How do I sign up for a class?

Simply check the schedule: NFP CLASSES and find a series that works for you. Call the teaching couple listed to register.

What if I can't make all the classes?

If you can't make a whole series, simply "skip around." Each date corresponds to the class number; so, for example, if you can't make the 2nd class, look under other series for the second date listed. No matter what teacher you take from, the second date listed will be the second class of the series and so on. At your first class you will be given a little card. Take that around if you need to switch teachers and the teaching couples can sign your card. When all three classes are completed with signatures, you can give the card to your parish. (The Bishop has asked that this card be put in your file at the church where you will be married.) Also, there are many classes offered in northern Colorado. See Denver NFP Their classes are the same as ours. So just take your little card and you can utilize their many dates and locations, as well. For the first half of the year, make sure you ask if you are attending a new class or an old class. All Colo Spgs classes are new, Denver may still have some of the old series so it is good to check.

Should I call the teaching couple if I am "skipping" to their class?

It is a good idea to call the teaching couple to simply say, "I'm going to be at your class on such-and-such a day." That way, the teaching couple can get your number and call you in case of inclement weather or any emergency rescheduling.

What if only one of us can make it to a class?

We are not able to grant exceptions--we are simply the volunteers teaching the class. You should check with your priest, deacon, or marriage person at your parish if you feel you have a special circumstance where one person needs to miss. (Sometimes when one person is deployed, for instance, exceptions are made.) Otherwise, you need to skip around to find a class that will work for both of you. If that won't work, one person could attend a class taught by one couple and the other person could attend another class. You'll need to make sure each person takes the materials to the class he or she is attending alone. This is not ideal, however, as NFP is meant to be learned as a couple. You could also consider the Homestudy option (see below).

What if I have to leave early?

If you have to leave early, we are trusting that you are acting as responsible adults. Many of the teaching couples sign the cards at the end, however, so you should let a teaching couple know your reason for having to leave early so they can sign your card beforehand.

Can I do something online?

While we don't have NFP classes online, there is a Homestudy course. It is $159 (shipping included). This is a perfect option for couples who live in remote areas where classes are not offered. It would also work for couples who just can't make an in-person class work. You order the Homestudy course here:
Homestudy Course You will work through the course and check in with a teaching couple (probably over the phone). You are then required to take a test to show mastery. This is certainly the harder option to fulfill your marriage requirement. The test is designed to only be passed if you actually did the full homestudy course!

What if I can't complete all the classes before my wedding?

We are volunteers merely teaching the classes. You have to check with your priest, deacon, or whomever is in charge of such things at your parish.

What if I can't afford the classes?

Talk to the teaching couple of the series you are interested in. Someone can email or mail you a financial aid application. The application also has an option to pay monthly in smaller increments.

Posted by Katy Appelhans at April 1, 2007 11:14 AM