What is FOCCUS?
“The FOCCUS© Inventory is designed to help engaged couples appreciate their unique relationship, learn more about themselves, and discuss topics important to their lifelong marriage.” www.FOCCUSinc.com. It is often used by parishes as part of the marriage preparation program because it helps an engaged couple recognize their strengths and the areas that they need to work on. The FOCCUS Inventory and Report are available in both English and Spanish.
FOCCUS is NOT a test and no one will look at the results and deny you marriage. FOCCUS simply raises awareness to issues a couple may not have been aware of, issues that should be discussed and worked out prior to making a marital commitment.
FOCCUS is a survey which each person takes separately to get their views on a variety of topics that are part of married life. Then each person’s answer is compared with the other’s and a record of the comparison is sent to the minister or married sponsor couple who is preparing them for marriage. The minister or married sponsor couple next meets with the engaged couple, usually three to six times, to talk through the results.
Remember: this is not just an arbitrary requirement but an opportunity to communicate more fully to each other who you are. It is meant to help you strengthen your relationship and work on issues so they do not become problems. The Church wants your marriage to be wildly successful and wishes to assist you through this helpful tool.
How Do We Register?
If your parish utilizes FOCCUS for marriage preparation, someone in the parish office will register you. They will need a separate email address for each of you. Then FOCCUS Inc. will send you both emails with log in information. (NOTE: Keep your eyes open for these emails because your computer may not recognize the FOCCUS address and send them to your junk mail folder.)
At a time that is convenient for you, you next go to www.FOCCUSinc.com and click on the yellow “COUPLES Log In” box in the lower left corner. Follow the directions that appear and take the survey. You and your fiancé do not need to take the survey at the same time or even on the same day.
The results will go directly via email to the minister or sponsor couple who will be reviewing them with you.
They will arrange with you to meet and go over the results.
*If you are interested in becoming a FOCCUS Facilitator, please contact the Office for Parish Life.