FOCCUS TRAINING

The FOCCUS Pre-Marital Inventory is part of the marriage preparation process for all engaged couples in the Joliet diocese.  Priests, deacons, and other parish staff members, as well as parish-approved and trained lay couples, may use FOCCUS with engaged couples.

 The fourth edition of FOCCUS is a significant update from the third edition.  For instance, the earlier editions of FOCCUS had one question that could be said to pertain to social media:  "I am concerned that my future spouse spends too much time watching television."  In contrast, the new edition addresses concerns over what a future spouse shares or posts on the internet, concerns over too much time spent with technology (internet, phone, television, video games), concerns over inappropriate relationships through social media, and includes attention to online pornography and its effect on relationships.  Along with dealing with other emerging areas of concern, many of the earlier questions have also been sharpened or clarified. 

Not all parishes have switches to the fourth edition.  This would be an advantageous time to make that transition. 

There will be a one-day training for FOCCUS at the Blanchette Catholic Center on Saturday, April 8, 2017.  The training runs from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  Each participating individual or couple will need to purchase the Fourth Edition Facilitator Manual at a cost of $50 (use of the Fourth Edition requires that the parish register on the FOCCUS website).  In addition, there will be a $10 per person charge for lunch and refreshments.  If you have any questions or would like to register to attend, please call the office at 815-838-5334 or use the registration form on the flier.  Pre-registration is required by March 31.