Richmond Engaged Encounter

PREPARING FOR OUR WEEKEND

Bring a Snack

Each couple is asked to bring a snack to share with others on the weekend (enough for about six other couples). These will be left out on a table in the presentation room for everyone to snack on between presentations. Typical items are fruit, vegetables, and baked goods. There will be coffee and soda available. If you prefer a different type of drink, please bring it with you.

What are the times of the weekend? Can I be late or arrive early?

The CEE retreat weekend begins on Friday at 8:00 p.m. and ends on Sunday by 4:00 p.m. On Friday, you should arrive by 7:30 p.m. in order to check in and bring in your belongings. You should plan to stay on site once you arrive. Our schedule does allow for some exercise and conversation time. There is a Sunday liturgy.

Some couples have asked us if they can come late or leave early due to travel plans or other conflicts. Unfortunately you must commit to the entrire weekend. Independent of the church we feel strongly about our entire program. All of the topics have been internationally determined to be essential to marriage preparation. Regarding the Catholic church, they are willing to accept our completetion certificate as the "formation team" component of marriage preparation. They have approved our outline and expect that the certificate was earned by full participation in every session.

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 the Sunday liturgy provide for fellowship and group prayer.

I need directions

In January 2012 the weekend will be held at the Cavalier Hotel (http://www.cavalierhotel.com/).

For the rest of 2012 the weekend will be held at the Holiday Inn Richmond Airport (link). Be careful not to show up at the Holiday Inn Express next door.

What should I bring?

You should pack as if you are going to a hotel that serves meals. Pillows, bedsheets, and towels are provided. You should bring your own personal items (e.g., shampoo, soap, toothbrush/paste, a favorite pillow). Dress is casual. Please bring appropriate clothing for the Sunday liturgy.

Your gift to each other

We ask you to come to your weekend with an open mind and heart. The more you put into your weekend, the more you will receive in return. Think of this weekend as an opportunity to share some special time together as a couple and as a chance to grow closer to your fiancée — your marriage partner. We realize that couples may be at different levels of growth and honesty in their relationships. All we ask is that you come with the commitment to deepen your own relationship.