wpeF.jpg (4135 bytes)                Counseling

Premarital counseling is required for several reasons:

1) It is effective. Many issues can be resolved much more easily prior to marriage than they can be after;

2) The pastor uses the time to get to know the couple. Your wedding will begin a relationship between the pastor and church and you. The wedding will be much more personal the better the pastor knows the couple; and,

3) The couple uses the time to get to know the pastor. Your ceremony will be more personal for you if you know the pastor well.

Several years ago the pastors of the Fresno Ministerial Association signed a covenant agreeing to require counseling before marrying a couple. At Immanuel you will need to meet with the pastor a minimum of 5 times, more if I feel it is necessary. During this time you will take a relationship inventory called "Prepare/Enrich" (It costs $30.00 to have it scored), get to know me, have me get to know you, plan your wedding ceremony, and discuss issues of concern about your relationship.