The celebration of marriage is a very important event in the life of a parish. It is essential that couples meet with a priest to book their wedding at least nine months prior to the wedding. Sometimes people book the reception centre before finding out if the church is available. At present weddings on Saturday are celebrated at 1p.m. and 2:30p.m. and may also be celebrated any other day except Sunday and the time is negotiable. It is important to establish that a couple be free to marry according to the norms of the church. No marriage may be celebrated until a couple have received proper instruction and attended a Marriage Preparation Course. Every Catholic being married must produce an up-to-date baptismal certificate dated the year of marriage and the non-Catholic party must also provide proof of baptism.
Liturgical rites are always to be celebrated in the manner which is determined by the church and provided in the approved ritual books and follow the Sunday liturgy. The music for a wedding celebration should reflect the fact that this is a spiritual (not a secular) celebration. The marriage Preparation Course allows for input from experienced married couples who share their reflections, as well as discussion and sharing among the couples preparing for marriage. Other details will be discussed with you when you meet with the priest celebrant. Prayer is an important part of one’s preparation for marriage and we as a parish community pray for those preparing to make a life commitment to live in love in marriage, reflecting the love of God for each one of us.