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Christian marriage is the union of a baptized man and
woman who freely enter into a loving covenant with each
other in Christ. The self-giving love of bride and groom
is sealed and strengthened by the Lord; and the married
couple imitates, and in a way represents, Christ's
faithful love for His bride, the Church. Thus husbands and
wives become signs, in and to the world, of God's
steadfast love for His people. |
Because
marriage is a sacred and serious commitment, it is necessary for
all couples contemplating this union to prepare themselves for it
by prayer and study. A marriage preparation program includes the
following:
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Before renting
a hall, contact the parish to set a date. This should take
place at least six (6) months before the desired date of the
wedding. In fact, as soon as an engagement takes place,
contact the pastor. A date will not be given to you
until after your first meeting with the pastor. All of
these matters will be explained by the pastor to the bride
and groom at their first meeting with him.
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It should go
without saying that one of the parties must be a registered
member of this parish.
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The Catholics
must give evidence of faith in God, participate in parish
worship and activities, and have an understanding of the
Catholic faith.
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Attend one of
the Diocesan, Vicariate, or local pre-marriage workshops and any extra sessions
with the pastor, as he deems necessary.
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Work out the
pre-marriage inventory and discuss the same with the
pastor or his delegate.
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Present or
complete the
necessary documentation: recently issued record of baptism,
confirmation, and dispensations (if necessary) and complete
the necessary diocesan pre-marriage forms.
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Plan a truly
meaningful liturgy in conjunction with the pastor, his
delegate, and our parish pastoral musicians.
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