Preparing for a wedding takes an enormous amount of time and energy. But those getting married need to invest in what follows. With divorce figures escalating, we urge all couples who get married to participate in a process of preparation. The church is here to help you both to build strong and lasting foundations for your life together.

In Newbury, several churches join together to run a one-day course twice each year - on a Saturday each autumn and then again in the spring. The next dates are Saturday November 21st 2009 and Saturday January 23rd 2010. Each day runs from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm. Lunch is provided.

You're welcome to join us (even if you live or are getting married outside our official catchment area). Contact Sue Elliott (telephone 01635 529783 or e-mail selliott@st-nicolas-newbury.org) for further details or to book.

In addition, you might find The Marriage Course useful. This is a series of eight sessions designed to help any married couple strengthen their relationship. It has been developed by Nicky and Sila Lee, who work at Holy Trinity Brompton, a church in London. Click here to check out the official website.

It’s a great opportunity for couples to spend time together looking at the important issues in marriage. The Marriage Course is very practical and will help equip couples with the tools needed to build a healthy marriage that will last a lifetime. While the course is based on Christian principles couples are welcome with or without a church background. Many couples who are not churchgoers have enjoyed and benefited from doing the course. Each week participants will be given the opportunity to enjoy a special meal together and listen to a presentation. There will then be plenty of time to discuss the topic as a couple. There is no group work involved at any stage of the course.

The Marriage Course is run in many locations all over the world. Visit the website to find the most convenient location for you.