Chapter Two Marriage Prep Retreat

Congratulations on your engagement! As you look forward to the Sacrament of Marriage, may this time be filled with God’s grace and blessings! 

To help you fully prepare to live out your God-given vocation as husband and wife, you and your future spouse are invited to attend this Chapter Two marriage preparation program serving the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis and surrounding dioceses. The Chapter Two Retreat is for couples where one or both are entering into a second marriage due to the death of a spouse or divorce (where an annulment has been granted).  

Chapter Two Retreat is designed to help you prepare as a couple for the Sacrament of Matrimony and to reflect on the beauty and richness of the Church’s teaching on marriage and the family. This important preparation provides you with opportunities to spend time listening to and engaging in discussions of various topics vital to your marriage. Entering a second marriage has many unique challenges and opportunities. This retreat has been designed and led by couples in a second marriage who are able to share and talk to these complexities, allowing you to be more aware and prepared as you enter this Sacrament of Holy Matrimony.

What to expect: Presentations given by priests, educators and couples who will share the beauty of God’s vision for marriage including:

• Foundations/Sacrament of Marriage 
• Communication/Conflict Resolution
• Creating a family mission statement
• Integrating Family Foundations
• Blended Families
• Natural Family Planning
• Couple forgiveness and prayer
• Time alone to discuss topics and reflect on how they apply to your individual life as a new family

The Chapter Two retreat is a one-day Saturday event. Upcoming dates are: 

• Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025 

• Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026 

Schedule: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday at the Church of Saint Paul, Ham Lake, MN  

Check in at 8:45 a.m.

Cost: $250/couple which includes a light breakfast, lunch, and a catered dinner following the Saturday evening Mass.  

Questions?  Contact Greg Hughes at [email protected] or at 763-229-9195.

Register Now

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Is this retreat appropriate for those preparing for a marriage convalidation? 
Yes!  Those seeking convalidation would benefit from the presentations and discussions at the Chapter Two Marriage Retreat. 

Is this retreat appropriate for widows or widowers who are marrying again? 
Yes!  Those preparing for marriage after the death of a spouse would benefit from the presentations and discussions at the Chapter Two Marriage Retreat. 

Will Mass be celebrated during the retreat?
Yes!  Saturday's 5:30 p.m. Mass is an anticipatory Mass and satisfies the Sunday obligation.

Can you accommodate special dietary needs?
Yes!  Just note your requirements on the registration form.