The Meaning of Marriage

From the beginning, God created man and woman in His image and called them to a communion of life and love. In marriage, a man and woman freely give themselves to one another in a lifelong covenant that reflects God’s faithful love for His people.

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For baptized Christians, marriage is not only a natural bond but also a Sacrament. Christ elevates the love of husband and wife so that their union becomes a visible sign of His love for the Church. Through the grace of the Sacrament of Matrimony, spouses are strengthened to live their vows faithfully, to grow in holiness together, and to build a family rooted in love and faith.

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Marriage in the Church is therefore much more than a beautiful ceremony. It is a sacred covenant—one that invites a couple into a lifelong journey of grace, sacrifice, joy, and shared mission.

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We are honored to accompany couples as they prepare for this vocation and take this important step in their lives.

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Marriage at St. Paul

If you are engaged and considering marriage in the Catholic Church, we would be delighted to walk with you through this time of preparation.

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Whether both of you are Catholic, one of you is Catholic, or you are seeking a convalidation (having a civil marriage recognized sacramentally in the Church), we welcome the opportunity to speak with you and help you begin the process.

 

A few common situations

• Two Catholics: The wedding is typically celebrated within a Mass.

• One Catholic and one non-Catholic: The wedding is usually celebrated outside of Mass, though it remains a sacred liturgy of the Church.

• Convalidation: If you are already married civilly and wish to have your marriage recognized by the Church, we will guide you through this beautiful process as well.

 

Every situation is unique, and our clergy will help you discern the most appropriate celebration for your circumstances.

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Beginning the Preparation Process

Marriage preparation is an important part of entering into this lifelong covenant. Because of the care involved, please contact the parish at least 6 months before your desired wedding date.

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Please note:
A wedding date cannot be set until the initial meeting with the priest or deacon has taken place.

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Step 1

Complete the Marriage Intake Form and email it to mmcdonald@spccnb.org

Once we receive your form, we will schedule your initial meeting with a priest or deacon.

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The Marriage Preparation Process

As you prepare for marriage, the Church invites you into a period of reflection, conversation, and formation together.

Preparation typically includes:

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• A premarital inventory to help you reflect on important areas of married life

• Three sessions with a mentor couple from the parish

• A Diocesan marriage preparation workshop (Sign up here)

• Three meetings with a priest or deacon to discuss your relationship, faith, and freedom to marry, the Scripture readings for your wedding liturgy, and final details of the ceremony

 

This process is designed not as a hurdle, but as a gift—an opportunity to deepen your relationship and prepare for a faithful, joyful marriage.

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Previous Marriages

If either of you has been married before, even if only in a civil ceremony, please contact the diocesan tribunal as soon as possible. Their phone number is 919-821-9755.

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The Church must first establish your freedom to marry before a wedding can take place.

This process helps ensure that every marriage entered in the Church is valid and free. Because these cases can take time, we strongly recommend beginning this step as early as possible. If this applies to you, please contact us and we will help guide you through the process.

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Documents to Gather

As part of your preparation, several documents are required.

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Baptismal Certificates

• Catholics must obtain a newly issued baptismal certificate from the parish of baptism.

• The certificate must be issued within 6 months of the wedding date and include notations.

 

If one of you is a baptized Christian but not Catholic, please obtain a copy of your baptismal certificate if possible.

If a certificate cannot be obtained, a Baptismal Affidavit Form may be used.

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Freedom to Marry Forms

Each person must submit two Freedom to Marry forms (four total).

These are typically completed by:

• Parents

• Relatives

• Or someone who has known you for many years

The forms must be notarized or signed in the presence of a priest.

 

Marriage Certificate

If you are seeking a convalidation of your marriage, we will need your marriage certificate.

 

Next Steps

1. Complete the Marriage Intake Form

2. Email the form to mmcdonald@spccnb.org

3. Schedule your first meeting with a priest or deacon

4. Sign up for the Marriage Preparation workshop (if you are already married and seeking a convalidatioon, this may not be necessary, depending on your circumstances. Please check with us before signing up). 

From there, we will guide you through the rest of the preparation process.

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Additional Resources

You may also find the following helpful as you begin planning:

• Marriage Pricing Sheet

• Marriage Contact Information

 

If you have any questions at any stage of the process, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are grateful for the opportunity to accompany you as you prepare for the Sacrament of Marriage.

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