FAQs
Is there an ideal time to attend a weekend?
Although we are called Engaged Encounter, a couple does not need to actually be engaged to attend a weekend. We recommend the “earlier the better.” As soon as you are engaged, or even considering engagement, it is the right time to attend a weekend. By attending early, you can discover areas of growth necessary in your relationship, determine if engagement and marriage is right for you (before becoming too invested in the wedding preparations), and avoid the last minute hassles of attending a weekend while trying to do everything else your wedding day entails.
Do we have to be Catholic?
No. The weekends are designed for couples planning to be married in the Catholic Church, they are open to couples from differing faith backgrounds, and is based on the Catholic belief that marriage is between a man and a woman. Catholic Engaged Encounter has been found to be both beneficial and supportive of couples from differing faiths.
What should we bring to the weekend?
Please be sure to bring the following items with you:
- Comfortable casual clothing
- Toiletries, medicines and other personal items
- A snack to place on the shared snack table which will be available in the conference room
- Any snack or drink items for your own personal consumption
What supplies does EE provide for the weekend?
The following items will be provided on the weekend. You do NOT need to bring these items:
- Linens (towels, sheets, pillows, blankets, etc.)
- Notebook and pen
What time should we arrive?
Please arrive between 7:15pm and 7:45pm. The weekend will begin promptly at 8:00 p.m. Because we are on a tight schedule, we cannot wait for couples who arrive late. If there is an emergency and you must be late, please contact the Immaculate Heart Retreat Center so that we can make accommodations.
What time does the weekend end?
The weekend typically ends between noon and 2 pm Sunday.
Do we have to stay for the entire weekend?
It is very important that you stay for the entire weekend. If you arrive late or leave early you will miss important parts of the weekend experience, and we will not be able to give you your weekend certificate and letter verifying your attendance.
Are there any ground rules for the weekend?
Yes, we do ask that you observe a few basic rules.
- Please refrain from the use of alcohol and illegal drugs
- Please stay in your assigned room
- Please do not leave the weekend, for any reason, unless an emergency arises. If you need to leave, please speak to one of the team members.
Will dinner be served on Friday evening?
No, dinner will not be served. The dining room will not be open until Saturday morning. On Saturday, three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be served. On Sunday, two meals (breakfast and lunch) will be served.
Can you accommodate my special diet needs?
The cooks will do their best to accommodate your needs ( within reason). They do their very best to provide a wide range of options for people with a variety of food allergies and preferences.
Will I have a roommate?
No, you will have your own room. While we recognize that couples may already be living together, you will not be permitted to share a room with your fiancé while on the weekend.
What will my room be like?
Your room will be very much like a college dorm room. It will have a bed, chair, writing table, as well as your own sink and toilet.
What about shower facilities?
Common shower facilities are located in the hall. The shower facilities are also much like those found in a college dormitory. For this reason, we suggest that you pack toiletries in a carrying case. You may also want to bring shower flip flops.
What should we wear?
Dress for the entire weekend is casual. Please dress comfortably. While you are welcome to do so, there is no need to change for dinner or Mass.
Will we have much free time this weekend?
No, the weekend is designed to be intense so that you can spend as much concentrated time together as possible preparing for your marriage. You may find that we stay up later and get up earlier than you typically would on a weekend. We will have a break on Saturday afternoon.
Can I have an exact schedule for the weekend?
Your workbook will provide an outline of the all the presentation; however, we are unable to provide an exact schedule as sometimes the presentations, activities and meal schedule may be altered during the weekend.