Picture of Love
Retreat for Engaged Couples
Saturday, January 24, 2026
St. Stephen Catholic Church 
7111 Lee Hwy, Chattanooga, TN, 37421
Directions

Building Your Marriage on the Foundation of Christ's Love
Thank you for registering for Picture of Love! We're honored to walk alongside you as you prepare for the beautiful sacrament of marriage.

This day-long retreat will help you and your fiancé(e) discover what it truly means to build a marriage that reflects God's love. Through the acclaimed Picture of Love curriculum, you'll explore the theology, spirituality, and practical skills that will sustain your marriage for a lifetime.

This page contains everything you need to prepare for January 24th. Please bookmark it and check back as the retreat approaches!

Countdown to Picture of Love
78Days
21Hours
01Minutes
38Seconds
Schedule Overview:
Times are subject to change. Don't worry - the Retreat Leaders will keep us on track.

  • 8:30 AM - Registration & Continental Breakfast
  • 9:00 AM - Retreat Begins
  • 11:45 - Lunch Break, Additional Q&A, Confession (Optional)
  • 1:00 PM - Continue Retreat Sessions
  • 5:00 PM - Mass at St. Stephen
  • 6:00 PM - Retreat Closing and Final Blessing
  • 6:30 PM - Departure
What's Included:

✓ Full-day retreat with experienced presenter couples
✓ Picture of Love curriculum materials
✓ Continental breakfast and refreshments
✓ Lunch
✓ Reflection exercises and couple discussion guides
✓ Celebration of Mass

What is the Picture of Love retreat?
This marriage preparation program is a supplement to the couple’s marriage formation with their parish priest or deacon. The Picture of Love marriage preparation program for engaged couples explores the joys and challenges of living out the sacrament of matrimony with special focus on the importance of inviting Jesus to be the center of marriage and family life. The program will help the couple gain insights into their relationship, as well as give them practical ideas and tools to help smooth their journey and become the “Picture of Love” to one another. 
When should we arrive?
Please arrive by 8:45 AM ET for check-in. We'll have coffee, tea, and breakfast available. The retreat officially begins at 9:00 AM ET.
Where do we park?
Free parking is available at the church. The parking lot is behind the church and is accessible via St. Stephen's Place. The retreat will be in the Parish Life Center .

What if we're running late?
We understand that traffic happens! If you're running late, please text [Contact Name] at [Phone Number]. We'll get you settled in as quickly and quietly as possible. However, we strongly encourage arriving on time so you don't miss the opening session.
Is lunch provided?
Yes! Lunch is included in your registration. Please let us know about any dietary restrictions by contacting Carolyn Krings at ckringsdioknox.org.
What if we didn't complete the prework?
The prework is an important part of the retreat experience, and we strongly encourage you to complete it. However, if circumstances prevented you from finishing, please still attend! Come with an open heart and do your best to engage with the material during the day.
What if one of us is not Catholic?
You are absolutely welcome! Picture of Love is designed for couples preparing for marriage in the Catholic Church, including interfaith couples. The retreat will explore Catholic teaching on marriage, but all are welcome regardless of faith background.
What if we need to cancel?
We understand that emergencies happen. Please contactCarolyn Krings at ckringsdioknox.orgas soon as possible if you need to cancel. 
Will we have to share personal information in front of the group?
No! While some activities couple discussions, you'll never be pressured to share personal details with the large group. All couple reflection time is private.
What's the atmosphere like?
The retreat is warm, welcoming, and joy-filled! While we take marriage seriously, we also laugh, enjoy each other's company, and celebrate this exciting time in your lives. Come as you are - all couples are at different places in their faith journeys, and everyone is welcome.
Can we invite another engaged couple we know?
Absolutely! If you have friends who are engaged and preparing for marriage in the Catholic church, we'd love to have them join us. Registration information is available at https://dioknox.org/events/picture-of-love-retreat-jan-2026.
What happens after the retreat?
After the retreat, you'll receive a follow-up email with additional resources and an opportunity to provide feedback. You'll also have the contact information for retreat leaders if you have questions as you continue your marriage preparation. Some parishes offer ongoing support groups for engaged and newly married couples - ask your priest or contact us for information.
Who are the retreat presenters?
Our presenters include experienced married couples, clergy, and marriage preparation specialists who are trained in the Picture of Love curriculum. You'll hear from multiple voices throughout the day, each bringing their own wisdom and experience. As these couples will openly be sharing details of their lives together, we ask that you respect them by maintaining confidentiality.
I have dietary restrictions. What should I do?
Please contact Carolyn Krings at ckringsdioknox.org at least one week before the retreat to let us know about any food allergies or dietary restrictions. We'll do our best to accommodate your needs.
What if we have questions during the retreat?
Retreat leaders will be available throughout the day to answer questions. We'll also have designated Q&A time built into the schedule. Don't hesitate to ask!

Additionally, we have an anonymous question link [HERE] where you can submit questions before the retreat. Our presenters will do their best to answer as many pre-submitted questions as they can after their presentation.