JPII-Style Pre-Cana

Thanks to a reader, Stephanie, for asking to hear more about the pre-Cana book I'm writing.  Here's a short explanation of what the book covers and how it was inspired by John Paul the Great.  Let me know what you think!
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Concerned about the ever-larger numbers of shattered families, Blessed Pope John Paul II strongly urged the Church to improve the quality of pre-Cana programs being offered to engaged couples.  He stated, “the Church must therefore promote better and more intensive programs of marriage preparation, in order to eliminate as far as possible the difficulties that many married couples find themselves in, and even more in order to favor positively the establishing and maturing of successful marriages.” (Familiaris Consortio, no. 66)

Inspired by the Pope's call, my friend Peter McFadden started a new JPII-style pre-Cana program for couples in Manhattan.  (See his website here.)  My husband and I developed the initial curriculum for Peter and taught the first few years of courses before we moved away to the suburbs.  What we couldn't find was a book to go along with the curriculum, so I started writing one.  After years of work, I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel!  Here's a summary of topics covered in the book.

 

1.  Theology of Marriage

2.  Openness to Life

3.  Parenting Special-Needs Children

4.  Educating Your Children

5.  Communicating with Your Spouse and Your In-Laws

6.  Families Serving Other Families

7.  Stewardship Over Your Finances

8.  Finding Meaningful Work

9.  Prayer and Imitation of the Holy Family

Each chapter of the book contains an explanation of Church doctrine supported by passages from the Bible, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and various papal encyclicals.  The chapters also include real-life examples from my own experience, and the experiences of my friends and family.  The book is intended to be accessible enough for individuals to read on their own, and informative enough to work as a text for a class.

Let me know what you think!  Are there any topics missing?  Did your pre-Cana program cover these topics in a way that you particularly liked (or disliked)?  I'd love to hear from you.