Most couples spend more time planning their wedding than preparing for married life. Without the kind of preparation provided by premarital counseling, the transition from the excitement of the wedding to married life can be much more challenging than most couples expect. Premarital counseling can help you prepare for life's challenges.

Typically three counseling sessions with the bride and groom are scheduled with the presiding minister several weeks before the wedding. Other clergy, friends, or relatives may be invited to participate in the wedding. We expect any guest minister to honor the policies of First Presbyterian Church regarding the wedding service, including premarital counseling.

It is important for a couple to learn how to communicate their feelings, perceptions and expectations to each other. Learning how to resolve current problems, and identify and defuse future difficulties is a key tool in any marriage. Premarital counseling can teach a couple how to make a relationship more rewarding, and how to gain an emotional intimacy that will last throughout the couple's lifetime.

Make the choice to start your marriage on the path to long-term success. Love alone is not enough to ensure a wonderful marriage. Everyone knows that successful marriages require commitment and work. Even these are not enough to guarantee the marriage you want. Your love plus premarital counseling can equal a great marriage.