What is Engaged Encounter? Engaged Encounter is a wonderful opportunity where couples who are planning marriage are able to have a weekend together to concentrate on each other, free from the tensions, pressures, and interruptions of daily life. It is designed to give couples an opportunity to dialogue intensively and honestly about their future life together. Self-identity, role expectations, money, sex, children, family and religion are some of the topics of face-to-face dialogue with one’s partner.
What happens during the weekend? Through a series of talks on the lived experiences of the team of married couples and a priest, the engaged couple is encouraged to discuss privately all the aspects of married life—always from the viewpoint of their own unique relationship. Each talk is followed by private reflection time then by dialogue with one’s fiancée. The focus is on the couple and their private sharing; group sharing is minimal and never mandatory. During the weekend there is time provided for questions, open discussion, prayer, reconciliation, and the Sunday Liturgy.
Is there an ideal time to attend? Registrations should be made at least 60 days prior to the planned wedding date and after an initial meeting with your Priest, Pastoral Associate or Marriage Preparation Coordinator. Registrations thirty (30) days or less before the wedding date must have the written or verbal consent of the priest. Registrations are scheduled on a first-come, first-serve basis. Your reservation will be confirmed by e-mail. Please use the registration form on the side of this flyer, or register online via the Diocese of San Angelo website.
Who is Engaged Encounter for? Engaged Encounter is designed for engaged couples of any age, who are committed to marry in the Catholic Church, and are mature enough to believe that their good relationship can become even better. Teaching better communication is a vital part of the weekend.
What time do you arrive? Registration begins at 6:30 p.m. on Friday evening. The First Session begins at 7:30 p.m. The Retreat ends on Sunday afternoon. A weekend stay is necessary to keep the atmosphere free from distractions. Separate housing is provided for men and women during the weekend.
Christ the King Retreat Center is located on the Southeast side of San Angelo on 19 acres that border the Concho River. Each dorm room has 2 single beds, a desk, private bathroom and shower. Plan and pack for a weekend away from home including your toiletries, blow dryer, etc. We provide bedding, and one set of towels per person. If you require additional towels or have a favorite blanket or pillow you are welcome to bring it with you.
Naturay Family Planning Natural Family Planning (NFP) is now required as part of your Engaged Encounter Weekend. It teaches couples about their combined fertility. It is a shared method where both husband and wife take responsibility for their family planning. It helps couples to understand and chart the woman’s cyclical patterns, and enables them to identify their window of fertility in each cycle. NFP takes places immediately after the conclusion of the Engaged Encounter program.
What is the cost? The total cost to attend the Engaged Encounter-Natural Family Planning Retreat is $350 per couple--
this includes a $175 non-refundable deposit that is required with your registration form to reserve your space, as well as program materials, rooms and meals. The balance is due 2 weeks prior to your Engaged Encounter weekend.
Copies of your Drivers Licenses must accompany your registration form.
In the case of cancellation, a zoom session will be offered for the weekend. For your participation, materials will be mailed to you prior to the session. Please make sure that all addresses and emails are legible to avoid materials being sent to an incorrect address. After the session, your certificates of attendance will also be mailed to you.
Payment may be made online or by check or money order payable to:
Christ the King Retreat Center
Send your deposit, copies of your driver's licenses, and registration form to:
Christ the King Retreat Center
802 For Street
San Angelo, TX 76905