Richmond Engaged Encounter

Our National History

Catholic Engaged Encounter (CEE) is an international organization founded in 1975 to offer a marriage preparation program based on the Catholic faith. We are a 501(c)(3) organization independent of any parish or diocese. CEE is operated by volunteers and financed by registration fees and contributions. It has grown since its founding, from several dozen couples and priests in just a few dioceses to several thousand in nearly all of the dioceses within the U.S. CEE has expanded from the U.S. and is in many countries throughout the world. Other faith traditions have adapted the CEE model to meet the needs of their engaged couples. Couples who volunteer with CEE come from every walk of life, but share a common belief. They believe that marriage is a decision that should be entered into carefully and with thorough consideration, and that CEE makes a positive and lasting difference in the world, couple by couple.

Our Local History

Catholic Engaged Encounter came to Richmond, Virginia in the early 1980s. The number of couples on our weekends was small at first, but has gotten as large as 30 couples on a weekend.

What Happens On The Weekend?

A presenting team, usually two couples and a priest, leads the discussions through a series of carefully prepared talks. After each presentation, you will be given some questions to complete individually. During this writing time, you will compose your response in the form of a love letter to your fiancé. You will then have time to exchange your love letter with your fiancé, read what the other has written, and share your thoughts and answers with one another.

While much of the weekend will involve private dialogue and sharing with your fiancé, there are opportunities for getting to know other couples on the weekend. Communal meals, a Saturday evening group discussion and prayer service, and the Sunday liturgy provide for fellowship and group prayer.

“In just two days, we feel closer than we’ve been in a long time. The entire weekend was an amazing spiritual experience and touched our lives forever.”

“Perhaps one of the only time you’ll have 48 straight hours to focus on each other without distractions…take advantage!”

"The EE weekend is a wonderful opportunity to discuss critical decisions in love and marriage. It adds strength to an ever growing love."