Matrimony
A covenant of love between husband and wife
"But from the beginning of creation, 'God made them male and female. For this reason, a man shall leave his father and mother, and the two shall become one flesh.' So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined, no human being must separate."
Mark 10:6-9
Sacred Scripture & Marriage
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.
By their marriage, the couple witnesses Christ's spousal love for the Church. One of the Nuptial Blessings 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."
A Covenant, Not Just a Contract
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 husband and wife, a permanent union of persons capable of knowing and loving each other and God.
A Liturgical Celebration
The celebration of marriage is a liturgical act, appropriately held in a public liturgy at church. Catholics are urged to celebrate their marriage within the Eucharistic Liturgy.
Planning to marry? Contact the parish at least six months before the intended marriage date.