Matrimony
Marriage is the innate vocation of the human experience. Every culture throughout history recognizes the unique bond that arises between one man and one woman when they freely join together in intimate and abiding communion, and celebrates it by observing a public ritual to mark the beginning of a new, shared life together. With the advent of Christ and the fullness of Divine Revelation, marriage was elevated to a sacrament; it became a supernatural as well as a natural vocation. St. John Paul II reminds us of this in Familiaris Consortio (13):
Like each of the seven sacraments, so also marriage is a real symbol of the event of salvation , but in its own way. “The spouses participate in it as spouses, together, as a couple, so that the first and immediate effect of marriage (res et sacramentum) is not supernatural grace itself, but the Christian conjugal bond, a typically Christian communion of two persons because it represents the mystery of Christ’s incarnation and the mystery of His covenant. The content of participation in Christ’s life is also specific: conjugal love involves a totality, in which all the elements of the person enter- appeal of the body and instinct, power of feeling and affectivity, aspiration of the spirit and of will. It aims at a deeply personal unity, the unity that, beyond union in one flesh, leads to forming one heart and soul; it demands indissolubility and faithfulness in definitive mutual giving; and it is open to fertility (cf Humanae vitae, 9). In a word it is a question of the normal characteristics of all natural conjugal love, but with a new significance which not only purifies and strengthens them, but raises them to the extent of making them the expression of specifically Christian values.”
Where are you in your journey?
Marriage Preparation
Congratulations on your engagement! We are excited to celebrate this incredible sacrament with you! Your upcoming wedding is a sacred and joyful moment—not only for you as a couple, but for your families, friends, and our entire parish community.
Registered parishioners who wish to be married at our parish, or elsewhere, are asked to contact one of the parish clergy at least six months in advance of their intended wedding date to begin the Pre-Cana preparation process.
Marriage Enrichment
Marriage is a lifelong journey that deserves ongoing care and intentional growth. Our Marriage Enrichment opportunities—such as retreats, workshops, and conferences—are designed to help couples deepen their connection, renew their commitment, and strengthen their faith together.
Whether newly married or celebrating decades of life together, we invite you to invest in your relationship and discover the grace that comes from growing in love, side by side with Christ.
Marriage Difficulties
Every marriage faces challenges, and you don’t have to face them alone. Whether you’re experiencing communication struggles, emotional distance, or serious difficulties, help and hope are available. Call the parish office to request a conversation with one of our priests. If you prefer professional counseling services, more anonymity, or something outside of the parish, see resources below.
No matter where you are on your journey, we are here to walk with you and remind you that healing and renewal are possible through God’s grace.