"The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life, is by its nature ordered toward the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring; this covenant between baptized persons has been raised by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a sacrament."
The sacrament of Matrimony signifies the union of Christ and the Church. It gives spouses the grace to love each other with the love with which Christ has loved his Church; the grace of the sacrament thus perfects the human love of the spouses, strengthens their indissoluble unity, and sanctifies them on the way to eternal life. (Catechism of the Catholic Church)
The Beauty of Marriage
Pope Francis is praying that we make our own "God's dream" of love, and especially for young people preparing for marriage. The beauty of marriage and the family as something more than a “social” act: “it’s a vocation that’s born from the heart; it’s a conscious decision for the rest of one’s life that requires specific preparation.” Let us pray for young people who are preparing for marriage with the support of a Christian community: may they grow in love, with generosity, faithfulness and patience. Watch Pope's Video
Timeline
1. At least six (6) months before the wedding, the wedding parties meet with the priest or deacon for the initial interview and the setting of the wedding date.
2. At least six (6) weeks before the wedding, the wedding parties attend a Marriage Preparation Course or Workshop. A certificate of attendance is part of the marriage documentation.
3. At least six (6) weeks before the wedding, the wedding parties meet with the priest for the canonical interview and complete the required documentation, including the following documents:
Certificate of Baptism for the Catholic party/parties, issued for marriage purposes after the initial interview.
A copy of baptismal certificate of baptism of the non-Catholic party.
Proof of freedom (Form 2A)
Concerning Baptism (Form 2B)
Certificate of Marriage Preparation Course
Musical program (approved by parish musician)
Wedding Service program (readings, prayers, vows & blessings)
Permission letter from parish priest (if from another parish)
Marriage License
Complete legal names of two (2) witnesses with their respective complete mailing addresses (with postal codes)
N.B. At least a month before the wedding, the Catholic parties celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation as an immediate preparation for the celebration of the Sacrament of Marriage.
Marriage Preparation Course
All couples are required to complete a marriage preparation course prior to their wedding.
