marriage in the church
"AND OVER ALL THESE VIRTUES PUT ON LOVE, WHICH BINDS THEM ALL TOGETHER IN PERFECT UNITY." COLOSSIANS 3:14
The Sacrament of Marriage is one of the most joyous occasions a couple can undergo. More than a wedding celebration, marriage is a covenant between a husband and wife. The covenant refers to their relationship as a permanent union between two people knowing and loving each other and God.
As a liturgical act, Catholics are urged to celebrate their marriage within the Eucharistic Liturgy.
preparing for marriage
Couples who wish to be married in the Catholic Church should reach out to the parish at least 6 months ahead of their expected wedding date. This means that couples should reach out to the Church before applying for their marriage license with the town. In Manchester, a marriage license is only valid for 65 days.
As part of celebrating the sacrament of marriage, couples undergo sacramental preparation. For six months before getting married, the engaged couple meet with a priest to talk about their relationship, their marriage, and the covenant they will make with each other and God.
At Saint Teresa of Calcutta, we also encourage couples to meet with friends with similar experiences through our Small Groups.
planning your ceremony
Couples are invited to personalize the wedding liturgy that most speaks to them. They may choose which Scripture passages they wish to have read, and may assign their friends and family as lectors for the ceremony.
If the couple requests, the priest may help place them in contact with musicians.
If you have more questions regarding marriage within the Catholic Church you are encouraged to reach out to Fr. Jaime Maldonado.
