We start the first session with dinner! Usually each session has 1 1/2 to 2 hours of time.This first session is extended. We obviously totally disagree with the concept that we should separate our ministry from our lives. We talk over dinner, hopefully make the couple more comfortable and informally train them on the family.

Each session starts with prayer. These six appointments are set up early on. The schedule is not only for them but also for my own time.

We can change appointments, but it is much easier to plan them now especially as the wedding draws near. Meeting every 2-3 weeks seems ideal, but they can be more closely scheduled if necessary. Sometimes a spouse might need to fly in to make an appointment. I do not space the sessions out less than once a month. Continuity is important.

You can download the many forms from this series to get a feel for the materials. We encourage you to order the whole series with the forms or get our BFF Marriage Library which includes the Christian Premarital Counseling materials along with our marriage book, Building a Great Marriage and available marriage videos and powerpoints for just a little more!

Time Distribution

Invite them over your house for supper (60')

Casually eat together at home with all the children, learning more about each other. They catch a glimpse how my wife cooks for a large family, how to talk at the table and how the children take turns cleaning up.

Review Premarital Questionnaires with them (10-30')

Often I interweave this time into our conversation before dinner (unfortunately this means Linda will not be there). Acknowledge their time in answering it.

Usually I look for facts to help me understand them and potential trouble points. They help direct future conversations. For example, if they have a poor family background, I need to spend much more time sharing what a biblical family is like.

Handout a paper binder (5')

I give each of them a paper binder (with 3-prongs). If I have time, I make a label with their names on it and the course name. I often print the handout in a different color.

Discuss Introduction & Handout #1, The Design of Marriage

Overview (5')

I first go over the overview and introduce the six sessions. I mention that I am willing to help provide resources for any area of need and that I am willing to individually meet with them.

#1 The Design of Marriage
#2 Principles of Godly Communication
#3 Wise Decision-making
#4 Finances & Marriage
#5 Understanding our Differences
#6 Preparations for Intimacy

Glory of marriage (15') (Part of Introduction)

Marriage is wonderful! I want them to know it and aim for having a great marriage. I show them how a great marriage is tied to having and living by a Biblical perspective of marriage. As we start off, we need to walk by faith. Through this introduction I show them the importance of premarital counseling that helps the couple get a Biblical perspective.

• Assign "The Family: God's Weapon for Victory" by Robert Andrews over course of counseling sessions. Can get it cheap on Amazon.com used.