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.
SACRAMENT OF MARRIAGE
We are glad you are interested in getting married in the Catholic Church and want to help you grow in your Cathollic faith. We offer a special welcome to those who have been away from the Church and the sacraments as we are glad that you are considering returning to a practice of your faith. We are most welcoming at St. Mary and St. Lawrence Parishes, and are happy to welcome you!
The most important 1st step of seeking the sacrament of marriage is to be an active practicing Catholic-registered as a member in a parish, and going to Mass each weekend.
OPTION A: For those who have not been attending Mass weekly, we suggest "dating" the Catholic Church again for at least 3 months (like you dated each other) to get acquainted with the Mass and the teaching of the Catholic Church. It is also helpful to join a parish ministry to meet other people. Also introduce yourself to the pastor each week for him to get to know you. Unless you are still living at home with your parents and/or under 21, please register in our parish as an adult. If you are not living in St. Mary or St. Lawrence Parishes please provide a letter from your pastor where you are registered and attending weekly. After getting reacquainted with and ready to commit to your faith and met the pastor after Mass a few times, please call the parish office for the Marriage Request form.
OPTION B: If you are already a practicing Catholic here at St. Mary on a weekly basis please call our office to set up an appointment and fill out the Marriage Request form. If you are a practicing Catholic at another parish, please have the pastor send a letter verifying you are registered and active in the parish. Please contact Father Steve so preparations can begin 618-532-6291 x 307