FOCCUS IN GROUP SESSIONS

When Group Programs administer the FOCCUS pre-marriage inventory, FOCCUS results are emailed to the person(s) trained to facilitate an individualized discussion.

FOCCUS results should be discussed privately with a facilitator, rather than distributed to couples in the group. A brief look at the report can cause misunderstanding or discouragement. Discussing the statements privately with a trained facilitator is much more helpful.

Teach the couples abou the FOCCUS categories they encountered in the inventory. Urge them to discuss topics of concern with their FOCCUS facilitator when they meet.

SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION

Group leaders can lead a general discussion of the FOCCUS categories. They can build their presentations around these topics. See pp. 56-57, 60.

FOCCUS FACILITATORS FOR COUPLES IN GROUP PROGRAMS

If group team members are trained to facilitate the FOCCUS, divide participating couples among the team members, review FOCCUS for their couples, and prepare interpretations.

Specific information about couples' FOCCUS reports should be kept confidential, but general categories can be highlighted by presenters.

Allow a "facilitation time" in one or more workshop sessions, during which the sponsors can meet individually with their couples. Plan an alternate activity for couples waiting for their turn with the team couple.

Build a team of married couples work together presenting your program. Neighboring parishes can collaborate to provide marriage preparation in a region. Ideally, one couple should present one topic, with an extra couple on each team to manage hospitality. Parishes could recruit several teams to share the schedule.

Gather as a team to plan and to pray together. Provide opportunities for formation and enrichment. Making a retreat together would be appropriate. Seek on-going education.

Visit Division of Evangelization and Catechesis, www.archbalt.org, for current course offerings.

PROGRAM WRAP-UP

In last session, ask couples to complete an evaluation. A shared prayer or blessing ceremony with participants, team, and clergy would be appropriate.

Later, gather the team to celebrate and review the program for future improvement. Set a date before the next program for a team meeting. Review evaluations of the previous program together.

HOSPITALITY

Involve your parish in ministry to marriage. Encourage parish couples to join in marriage preparation ministry in ways other than presentations. Invite young couples to serve as greeters, table discussion leaders, and refreshment servers.

Enlist members of the parish as prayer partners, and let participants know who is praying for them. Young people of the parish, in school, religious education, and youth ministry can contribute artwork, notes, and cards to support the engaged couples.