Things to do before "I do" As Soon As You Are Engaged (at least six months before wedding) Make an appointment with your parish priest or deacon and set a tentative wedding date. Ask for parish guidelines and diocesan policy for review before first meeting. Within two weeks of your engagement Meet with the priest or deacon to complete prenuptial investigation. Review parish guidelines and diocesan policy. Take the FOCCUS inventory. Arrange for the Solemnization of Engagement ceremony. At least three to six months before your wedding Attend a marriage preparation course. Meet with priest, deacon, or sponsor couple to discuss the FOCCUS inventory (approximately four to five meetings). Spend time as a couple reading and discussing, "Marriage in Christ: The Sacrament of Faithful, Lifelong Love," Bishop John Kinney's pastoral letter to engaged couples. Supply celebrant with a current copy of baptismal certificate if marrying outside the parish of your baptism. Three months to six weeks before your wedding Prayerfully select Scripture readings, petitions, and music. Forty-five days to one month before your wedding Meet with priest, deacon, or parish staff to discuss details of wedding celebration. Either a few days prior to your wedding or after your rehearsal Participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation (for Catholic parties).