Help a couple prepare for a lifetime, not just a day
Before I Do is a mentoring ministry at The Rocks that pairs a trained volunteer mentor couple with an engaged couple for six to eight sessions over a two- to three-month period. This structured program provides valuable preparation in essential areas for a successful marriage—communication, conflict resolution, finances, intimacy, and family. Additionally, we use the PREPARE/ENRICH inventory, an online tool that helps assess a couple’s strengths and areas for growth, giving them insight and tools for their journey ahead.
Mentoring Training at The Rocks
Before you begin your mentoring journey, you’ll attend a three-hour training session to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to mentor engaged couples with confidence and care. Additionally, we offer ongoing training sessions three to four times a year to ensure that you’re well-prepared and informed with current, relevant information. This ongoing support allows you to be effective in guiding couples through one of the most important seasons of their lives.
Ready to make a meaningful impact? Join Before I Do and help engaged couples lay the foundation for a marriage that lasts.
Mentoring Training at The Rocks
Before you begin your mentoring journey, you’ll attend a three-hour training session to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to mentor engaged couples with confidence and care. Additionally, we offer ongoing training sessions three to four times a year to ensure that you’re well-prepared and informed with current, relevant information. This ongoing support allows you to be effective in guiding couples through one of the most important seasons of their lives.
Ready to make a meaningful impact? Join Before I Do and help engaged couples lay the foundation for a marriage that lasts.
We Have a Plan to Equip You as a Before I Do Mentor
Here’s what it takes to join us as a Before I Do mentor couple at The Rocks. Our mentors play an invaluable role in supporting engaged couples as they prepare for marriage, and we want to ensure you’re well-prepared for this ministry.
Mentor Requirements
- Married for Five Years or More: Stability and experience in marriage provide a solid foundation for mentorship.
- A Growing Relationship with Jesus Christ: Both spouses should be actively pursuing their faith and encouraging one another in their walk with Christ.
- Wisdom in Marriage: Demonstrating discernment, good communication, and mutual respect in your marriage.
- Biblical Authority: Recognising the Bible as the guide and authority in your life and marriage.
Steps to Become a Before I Do Mentor
- Apply Online: Each spouse will need to complete an individual application.
- Complete the PREPARE/ENRICH Inventory: This assessment helps mentor couples understand and strengthen their mentoring approach.
- Interview with a Staff Member: We’ll meet with you to discuss your journey, faith, and goals as mentors.
- Apprentice with an Experienced Mentor Couple: Before being assigned your own couple, you’ll apprentice alongside seasoned mentors, gaining hands-on experience.
We’re excited to support you as you step into this impactful role, helping couples start their marriage journey with strength and wisdom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we have to be engaged to go through "Before I Do"?
Yes. This program is specifically designed for engaged couples.
Do we have to be members of The Rocks Church to go through the premarital process or have a pastor of The Rocks to officiate our wedding?
No, you do not need to be a member of The Rocks to participate in our premarital process ('Before I Do') or to have one of our pastors officiate your wedding. We’re honoured to support any couple committed to building a strong foundation for their marriage.
What if we don’t have six months until our wedding date?
If our schedule allows, we may still be able to match you with a mentor couple, even if your wedding is sooner than six months away. Please email our coordinator at care@therocks.church to check availability.
If your wedding date is less than four months away, we suggest contacting a professional counsellor for premarital support, and we can provide you with a referral.
If your wedding date is less than four months away, we suggest contacting a professional counsellor for premarital support, and we can provide you with a referral.
Who are the mentor couples?
Our mentor couples are trained volunteers who have been married for at least five years, demonstrate a strong faith, and have a mature, healthy relationship. They’re dedicated to helping you build a great start to your marriage.
How do you match us with a mentor couple?
We take care in matching you with mentors based on a variety of factors such as schedules, location, and life experiences. For instance, if your relationship includes unique dynamics, like step-family situations, we’ll do our best to match you with a mentor couple experienced in those areas.
Where do we meet with our mentor couple?
Most couples meet with their mentors in the mentors’ home, creating a comfortable, relaxed environment for open conversation.
What curriculum do you use?
We follow a structured curriculum that covers key areas in building a successful marriage: communication, conflict resolution, finances, intimacy, and family. Additionally, we use the Prepare-Enrich inventory, an online tool that helps identify your strengths and areas for growth.
How much does 'Before I Do' cost?
The Before I Do program has a registration fee of $250. This includes two workbooks, the Prepare-Enrich assessment, and four mentor sessions.
How many sessions are there, and how long do they last?
There are four sessions in total, with each session lasting about one to two hours, depending on your needs and discussion topics.
What if this is not my first marriage?
If either of you has been previously married, we recommend setting your wedding date at least two years after your divorce if possible. If this isn’t feasible, we suggest professional counselling as a foundation for your new marriage. Please email our coordinator for a counselling referral.