Sacrament of matrimony

We require that couples give the parish at least six month’s notice of intent to marry. Therefore, couples should contact the parish first, and then work their plans for the reception or honeymoon around the date they have arranged with the parish.

Couples from other parishes must obtain a letter from the pastor of the church in which they are registered granting permission for the marriage. Their home parish is responsible for all required instruction, investigation, and paperwork.

Marriages may only be contracted between two free people; that is, if neither has been married before. It is possible that an annulment may be required, and this may involve the non-Catholic partner.

Learn more about the SACRAMENT OF MATRIMONY - United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

Engaged Encounter - Engaged Encounter 2011 brochure/registration
The Engaged Encounter Ministry, coordinated at the diocesan level, begins with a weekend experience for a married couple to pause, pray, consider their marriage and examine their lives together. The weekend is open to all couples, regardless of age or length of marriage, and is a way to enhance communication skills in a marriage.

Marriage Preparation - St. Raphael Catholic Church Wedding Preparation Book
Engaged couples must contact a priest six months before receiving the Sacrament of Marriage. In addition to required counseling sessions with a priest or deacon and mentoring couple, the engaged couple must attend a marital preparation program. This ministry provides engaged couples with the necessary skills and a deeper understanding of the Sacrament of Marriage, as well as preparing them to use their faith to build and preserve a strong union.