Matrimony
Sacred Scripture begins with the creation and union of man and woman and ends with “the wedding feast of the Lamb” (Rev 19:7, 9). Scripture often refers to marriage, its origin and purpose, the meaning God gave to it, and its renewal in the covenant made by Jesus with his Church. Man and woman were created for each other.
By their marriage, the couple witnesses Christ’s spousal love for the Church. One of the Nuptial Blessings in the liturgical celebration of marriage refers to this in saying, “Father, you have made the union of man and wife so holy a mystery that it symbolizes the marriage of Christ and his Church.”
The Sacrament of Marriage is a covenant, which is more than a contract. Covenant always expresses a relationship between persons. The marriage covenant refers to the relationship between the husband and wife, a permanent union of persons capable of knowing and loving each other and God. The celebration of marriage is also a liturgical act, appropriately held in a public liturgy at church. Catholics are urged to celebrate their marriage within the Eucharistic Liturgy.
“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.” (CC #1661)
Requirements for Marriage
- Be registered as a parishioner
- Birth Certificate
- Baptism Certificate (six months recent)
- First Communion Certificate
- Confirmation Certificate
- The marriage license obtained from the state where the bride and groom live is essential 90 days before the ceremony. Without this license the priest cannot marry the bride and groom.
- Proof of participation in the Diocesan program of marriage preparation and family planning for Marriage.
To prepare for a marriage, at least eight months in advance is necessary. Thank you.
For more information, please speak with Eva Cornejo 219-398-2409
