The Archdiocese has announced dates for its 2027 Marriage Preparation Courses, with bookings now open for couples planning to marry in the Catholic Church.
Courses take place throughout the year, offering couples the choice of attending fully online or combining online learning with an in-person session at The Gillis Centre in Edinburgh.
Fr Benedict Iwatt, Vicar Episcopal for Marriage & Families, who leads the course, said: “Marriage preparation gives couples an opportunity to reflect on the commitment they are making to each other and to understand the significance of marriage in the Catholic Church.
“As Pope Francis reminds us in Amoris Laetitia, preparing for marriage is about much more than the wedding ceremony; it is about equipping couples to embrace married life as a lifelong vocation of love, faithfulness and mutual self-giving.
“We want couples to approach their wedding day with a deeper appreciation of the promises they will make and the life they are beginning together.”
About the course
Marriage preparation is a requirement for couples wishing to marry in the Catholic Church.
The course explores the Church’s understanding of marriage as a sacrament and vocation. Topics include prayer, communication, managing conflict and the Catholic Marriage Rite, with particular attention to the meaning of the marriage vows.
Sessions are led by Fr Benedict, with contributions from clergy and married couples.
Couples must speak to their parish priest before registering for a course and should give at least six months’ notice before their intended wedding date.
Course dates and booking
Each course takes place over two days: Friday (7:00pm–9:00pm) and Saturday (10:30am–3:30pm).
Fully online courses (Zoom)
- 19–20 February 2027
- 14–15 May 2027
- 24–25 September 2027
Online Friday / In-person Saturday
The Saturday sessions take place at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB.
- 19–20 March 2027
- 28–29 May 2027
- 22–23 October 2027
Book an online/in-person course
For booking enquiries, contact Anne Riley at chancery.marriage@staned.org.uk. Further information is available at archedinburgh.org/administration/marriage-preparation-courses/.
