Matrimony

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A Catholic marriage is a sacrament between baptized man and woman. The Old Testament prophets saw the marriage of a man and woman as a symbol of the covenant relationship between God and his people. The permanent and exclusive union between husband and wife mirrors the mutual commitment between God and His people (from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops). The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a sacred partnership of the whole of life, is by its nature ordered toward the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring; this covenant between baptized persons has been raised by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a sacrament. (Catechism of the Church)

HOW DOES SACRAMENTAL MARRIAGE PREPARATION WORK AT OUR PARISH?
So that the "I do" of the spouses may be a free and responsible act and so that the marriage covenant may have solid and lasting human and Christian foundations, preparation for marriage is of prime importance. We facilitate a communication program called Foccus that allows couples to assess the current level of communication and readiness for Holy Matrimony. The program is directed towards primarily young adults, however various tools and programs are adapted to meet the needs of older adults, especially those preparing for second marriages. We also participate in the diocesan "Joy-Filled Marriage" workshops which allow couples to experience the practical and spiritual challenges and benefits of married life.

HOW DO I REGISTER?
Call the parish office at 419-352-4195. Information about sacramental marriage preparation is provided at the time couples schedule their wedding.