Marriage

The Sacrament of Marriage

Preparation for Holy Matrimony is both formal and spiritual. Couples entering this sacred covenant must provide proper documentation and also prepare their hearts and minds to understand the dignity and responsibilities of Christian marriage.


Formal Requirements

To establish freedom to marry in the Church, the following documents are required:

  • A recently issued Baptismal Certificate (with notations)
  • A Pre-Nuptial Questionnaire (completed with the pastor)
  • Two Freedom-to-Marry Affidavits (one for each person)
  • Any necessary permissions or dispensations (e.g., for mixed religion or canonical form)


Spiritual Preparation

Couples will also participate in the following spiritual preparation:

  • A personal meeting with Fr. Drew to discuss their faith journey and circumstances
  • Attendance at a regional marriage preparation workshop with other engaged couples
  • Completion of a course in fertility awareness, understanding how to naturally achieve or postpone pregnancy in harmony with Church teaching


"Therefore what God has joined together, no human being must separate."

— Mark 10:9

Wedding Schedule and Availability

Weddings may be scheduled based on the availability of:


  • The pastor or an authorized priest/deacon,
  • The church building itself,
  • And the couple's readiness.
  • Couples are encouraged to contact the parish as early as possible—ideally 6 to 12 months before the desired wedding date—to begin the preparation process.


If you're newly engaged and would like to prepare for marriage at St. Joseph’s contact the office today.

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"Marriage and the family constitute one of the most precious of human values."

— St. John Paul II, 1981

Important Note on Cohabitation

To preserve the dignity of the Sacrament and avoid public scandal:


  • Couples are expected to refrain from living together prior to their wedding.
  • If a couple chooses to live together as spouses before marriage, they forfeit the privilege of reserving a wedding date at St. Joseph’s in advance.
  • Couples already civilly married, who cannot separate for the good of children, must speak directly with the pastor to discern the appropriate next steps.


Growing in Faith Together

During preparation, couples are encouraged to:


  • Return regularly to the Sacrament of Confession
  • Participate in Holy Communion
  • Foster devotion to Our Lady and Our Lord in the Eucharist
  • Pray together as part of building their spiritual foundation
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