Weddings

Engaged couples have a strong desire for their wedding to be remembered for its ambiance, which often prompts them to plan a “destination wedding” or a choose a venue where the ceremony can be carried out in the same place as the reception. Since church weddings don’t seem to meet the muster of convenience or create a memorable backdrop, the notion of a church wedding is often dismissed. When the theme and backdrop increase in importance, the concern to approach a priest or deacon fades away. For many, a civil official or even a friend who obtains a license online to officiate will do, but this would not be a sacrament nor a valid Catholic marriage.

Roman Catholics, under normal circumstances, must be married in the Catholic form (before a priest or deacon and two witnesses) to be considered a valid marriage. In some cases, the bishop may grant a couple permission to marry outside of a Catholic church.

Why should a couple marry in accord with the Church’s norms? The sacraments are much bigger than we are. A church wedding demonstrates the true dignity of the sacrament. Just as with other sacraments, marriage should normally be celebrated in a sacred space and witnessed by a priest or deacon because it is a sacrament—a visible sign of God’s grace. The sacrament of marriage recognizes that God is central to the marital covenant, that marriage is more than a human enterprise. It recognizes that a couple needs God’s grace to live out this vocation with its joys and challenges. For a Catholic to contract marriage under the proper form (witnessed by a priest or deacon) is a means of spiritual growth and sanctification.

If you were not married in the Church, contact the parish office about entering into a sacramental marriage to receive the strength of God’s grace in your union. Our priests, deacons, and staff would be delighted to assist you.