F.A.Q's

Following the interview, the couple will be asked to complete a "Taylor Johnson Temperament Analysis" (T.J.T.A.) Inventory and Personality Test. These tests help to alert the premarital counselors to areas that need specific attention. They also help to identify areas of strength in the relationship. The premarital counseling experience is uniquely designed to meet the needs of each couple.

2. What are the specific requirements to be married at Pinelands Church or by a Pinelands pastor?

All premarital couples must complete our seven-week counseling program.

In addition, the pastors/elders of Pinelands Church have determined the following qualifications, based on Biblical truths:

Bride and groom must individually confess a personal trust in Jesus Christ as Savior. Pinelands Church will not marry unbelievers, or join an unbeliever to a believer in marriage (2 Corinthians 6:14-18). God’s Word is clear about spiritual compatibility between marriage partners. Furthermore, we require regular church attendance. If you desire a Christian wedding and a Christian marriage, regular attendance at a Bible teaching church is vital (Hebrews 10:25).

Bride and groom must abstain from physical intimacy or living together. Sex is a gift from God. He is the one who created it! Therefore, we must follow God’s directions alone regarding our sexuality. The Bible gives us clear instructions for sex within the parameters of the marriage relationship (2 Corinthians 6:3). God’s Word also gives us clear warnings and consequences when sex is used outside of the marriage.
While many of those who come to Pinelands Church are honoring God through abstaining from sexual intimacy, there are many that do not fall into this category. Couples who are physically intimate or are living together are asked to move apart and covenant with Pinelands Church to abstain from their sexual relationship until their wedding day. We would like the opportunity to encourage you to make this commitment with us, understanding that this is God’s best for your marriage relationship

3. What is the cost of the Pinelands Church premarital counseling program?

The cost for members of Pinelands Church (all those who have attended Class 101 and have been baptized) is $150. The cost to non-members is $250. This cost covers workbooks, tapes and other counseling materials. It also pays for the administration and scoring of the national, standardized T.J.T.A. report. Our premarital counselors are not paid; they have chosen premarital counseling as a special ministry opportunity. Scholarships for the cost of this program are available upon request.

4. Who does the premarital counseling?

     Your premarital counseling will be done with a married couple who has received special premarital training. These couples have been married for at least ten years and exemplify Christ-centered marriages. They are open and honest about sharing their experiences in their own marriage.

      You will work with the same counselors for the full duration of your premarital counseling. Although these counselors are specifically trained in the area of premarital counseling, they are not professional, licensed counselors. They have chosen premarital counseling as their ministry at Pinelands Church. One of the goals of the ministry is to provide all premarital couples an opportunity to establish a mentoring relationship with their counseling couple, thus encouraging their present and future connection to their Pinelands Church family.



5. What do we talk about at the counseling sessions?



     You will discuss many subjects throughout your time together. These subjects include marital roles and responsibilities; skills for communicating and resolving conflicts; realistic management of finances; your sexual relationship; your family of origin; and much more! Your relationship strengths will be discussed, as well as areas that need growth.

Although the program is designed to cover certain topics, your counselors will design your time together to fit your individual needs. Details of the seven sessions are discussed during your premarital interview. Homework assignments are given prior to each session to enhance your understanding (and promote discussion) of the material.

6. What should I expect from the premarital counseling experience?

     You should expect to be challenged, strengthened, educated, and better prepared for your upcoming marriage. You will probably experience some laughs, some tears, and some pleasant surprises!

      You should leave your premarital counseling with some problem areas identified, some new marital skills learned, and most importantly - a more realistic expectation of what marriage will be like!

May God richly bless you individually, and as a couple, as you embark on this exciting journey together!