THE SACRAMENT OF MATRIMONY

Matrimony

“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.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1601)

 The sanctity of marriage

Love is the “fundamental and innate vocation of every human being.” (CCC #1604) We are all created in the image and likeness of God, who is Himself, love. Since God created us male and female, the mutual love between husband and wife becomes an image of the absolute and unfailing love with which the Lord loves us. All married couples become this sacramental sign – in their covenant, they reflect Christ and his eternal pledge of love for his bride, the Church. It is a love which is:

 Forever- “Until death do us part.”
Faithful-  Exclusively for one another.
Fruitful-  Open to the possibility of new life.

For those who wish to be married in our Church, we ask that you contact our Parish Office at least 6 months before a planned wedding date. At least one person of the engaged couple must be a registered member of the parish. Also, it is important to meet with Father Tom before any other wedding arrangements are made, so that the date and time can be confirmed.

What is marriage Preparation?

Marriage Preparation is a program that all couples must attend if they are to marry in the Catholic Church. It is commonly referred to as "Pre-Cana" a name derived from John 2:1-12, which depicts the wedding feast of Cana in Galilee, where Jesus performed his first miracle by turning water into wine. During the program, couples will be invited to reflect more deeply on the sacrament which they are preparing to receive.