ECW Program for Parishes

Welcome to the ECW Program for Parishes - the easy-to-implement parish program that helps identify couples as they become engaged and inspires them to seek all the elements of a true and beautiful Catholic marriage.

At the core of this program is the 192-page practical guidebook, The Wedding Survival Guide for Catholics – 44 Strategies to Survive Wedding Planning and Thrive in a Catholic Marriage. This book is a joint venture of the Diocese of Trenton and the secular publishing group, Stress Gone Publishing LLC.

As fewer and fewer couples marry in the Church (down 40% in just 12 years – 2000-2012), we must be proactive to reverse this trend. In fact, in a 2014 USCCB report, “Strategies for Promoting Marriage in the Church,” several reasons for this issue were cited that are even more pronounced today:

• Lack of knowledge about the faith

• Couples did not see the value of marrying in the Church

• A negative impression of the Church’s marriage preparation process

• Not understanding the difference between a sacramental and civil marriage

That’s why our book and program can help: with accurate, easy-to-read and understand information that addresses these concerns. In fact, it’s perfect for couples when they contact the parish upon their engagement. It’s also perfect for parents and grandparents. 

The “Encouraging Catholic Weddings” program for parishes includes free books and 15 free mini guides and other materials in pdf format, as well as a host of resources that will inspire young adults learn more about the myriad benefits of Catholic marriage.