Congratulations on your engagement to be married! As you prepare for the Holy Sacrament of Matrimony, invite the Holy Spirit to guide you and form you to live your vocation well.
The purpose of these guidelines is to help you celebrate and live the vocation of love in the sacrament of marriage. The Church’s treasure of prayer and worship, learning and service, contemplation and spiritual guidance are always available to you. The grace of the sacrament of matrimony and the power of commitment that you will make to each other are the continuing wellsprings of strength.
The customary place for the celebration of a Catholic marriage is the parish of the Catholic party. Parishioners have first choice to reserve dates for weddings at Saint Patrick Church. If you are new to the parish, you are expected to attend weekly Mass, making sure that the pastor knows who you are and sees you participating in the life of the parish. Register and provide a consistent contribution. Please participate in some of our events and activities (Christ in the City, Women’s Group, Men’s Group, etc.), becoming part of our community. After two months of consistent involvement and contribution and at least one year before the date you would like to be married, please approach the pastor about setting a date for your wedding.
By the time we discuss your wedding date, the expectation is that your presence at Mass, contribution, and involvement in the parish are well-established. If this poses an obstacle for new parishioners, we encourage you to take the necessary steps to amend your situation and lack of involvement as soon as possible. If your situation is unique, please make that known to the pastor.
We are happy to provide preparation for our parishioners, whether they are being married at Saint Patrick Church or elsewhere. Please make an appointment to discuss your marriage preparation with the pastor. Preparation for those marrying non-Catholics in a non-Catholic setting is also possible. Please discuss with the pastor.
Regarding parishioners of other parishes, please read more information in the Marriage Guidelines document linked above.
As you prepare for your marriage, please do not hesitate to contact Saint Patrick Church should you have any questions whatsoever. The people of Saint Patrick Church pray that you will discover spiritual treasures together and that your wedding day will be a happy and memorable one for you, your families, and friends.
Madison and Jon's Wedding by SavBrown Photography Scalise Wedding on OcT. 4, 1952