Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States

Pre-Marital Program

Having been invited, the Lord came to Cana in order to affirm conjugal chastity and to show that marriage is a Holy Mystery. Moreover, the bridegroom at t (St. John Chrysostom, c. 407)

Holy Matrimony is the Mystery depicting the union of our Lord Jesus Christ with His Church (Eph 5:22-33). The Church is made up of men and women; thus their marriage union is immensely important for the well-being of the Faith and for their own salvation.

hat marriage to whom it was said, "You have kept the good wine until now," is a figure of the person of the Lord. For Christ did indeed keep the good wine that is, His Gospel, until now.
(St. Augustine)

When husband and wife are united in marriage they no longer seem like something earthly, but rather like the image of God Himself.
As of 2010, attendance is a mandatory requirement for couples obtaining permission to marry within the Southern Diocese.

Yearly retreats for pre-marital couples as shown below:

  • Florida
    - Will usually be held on the 3rd weekend of January every year.
    - Questions: Please contact Fr. Daoud Tawadrous at fr.daoudt@gmail.com.
    - January 13-15, 2023
    - January 12-14, 2024 ~ more info

  • Georgia
    - Will be held on the 3rd weekend of May every year.
    - Questions: Please contact Fr. Eleia Eskander at freleia@gmail.com.
    - May 19-21, 2023
    - May 17-19, 2024 ~ more info

  • Tennessee
    - Will be held twice a year, usually in March and August.
    - Questions: Please contact Fr. Boutros Boutros at frbboutros@gmail.com.
    - August 25-27, 2023
    - March 1-3, 2024 ~ more info

  • Texas
    - Will be held in August every year.
    - Questions: Please contact Fr. Benjamin Abouelkheir at frbenjaminaustin@gmail.com.
    - August 25-27, 2023
    - August 23-25, 2024 ~ more info