In our parish communities — St Mary’s, St John Bosco, and St Edward’s — Marriage is a sacrament in which a man and a woman freely give themselves to one another for life, and God gives the grace to live that promise faithfully.
A Catholic wedding is not simply a celebration or a legal event.
It is a public covenant, made before God and the Church, and ordered towards lifelong fidelity, the good of the spouses, and openness to new life.
What Marriage Is
A sacrament, not just a ceremony
In the Sacrament of Marriage, husband and wife become a sign of Christ’s faithful love for His Church.
Marriage is therefore:
- lifelong
- faithful
- exclusive
- open to the gift of children
It is a vocation, not merely a personal choice.
Marriage presupposes faith and freedom
Because Marriage is a sacrament, it presupposes:
- freedom to marry
- understanding of what the Church teaches about marriage
- openness to living marriage as Catholics
For this reason, preparation for Marriage is not simply about planning a wedding day, but about discerning a vocation.
Preparation for Marriage
An Individualised Approach
Preparation for Marriage in the parish is personal, pastoral, and individualised.
We do not operate a one-size-fits-all programme or treat marriage preparation as a formality to be completed quickly.
Instead, preparation is shaped around:
- the couple’s situation
- their faith practice
- their readiness to enter sacramental marriage
This approach reflects the Church’s understanding that sacraments require proper disposition and freedom.
Beginning the process
Couples wishing to marry in the Church should make contact as early as possible, ideally at least six months before the proposed wedding date.
The first step is always a conversation, not a form.
This allows time for:
- listening
- explanation of the Church’s teaching
- clarification of any pastoral or canonical matters
What preparation involves
Marriage preparation normally includes:
- personal meetings with the priest
- reflection on the meaning of sacramental marriage
- discussion of faith, prayer, and family life
- preparation of the necessary paperwork
- guidance on living marriage as Catholics
Preparation is adapted to the couple and may take longer where circumstances require it.
Particular Situations
Some couples approach the Church in complex or sensitive circumstances, such as:
- living together before marriage
- previous civil marriage
- separation or divorce
- questions about faith practice
These situations are approached pastorally and respectfully, without judgement.
They do not automatically prevent marriage in the Church, but they do require honest conversation and discernment.
The Celebration of Marriage
A Catholic wedding normally takes place:
- within a Nuptial Mass, or
- within a Liturgy of the Word
The form of celebration is discussed during preparation, taking into account the couple’s faith practice and circumstances.
Marriage is celebrated within the life of the parish, not as a private event detached from the Church.
Practical Considerations
- Only one wedding may be celebrated per church per day
- Dates and times are confirmed after the initial conversation
- Music and readings must be suitable for the sacred liturgy
- Fees and practical arrangements are explained clearly during preparation
Interested in Marriage? Let’s Begin
If you are:
- engaged and considering marriage in the Church
- unsure whether your situation allows for a Catholic wedding
- returning to the faith and exploring marriage
You are very welcome to make contact.
Preparation begins with conversation and accompaniment, not booking.
Where: St Mary’s, St John Bosco, or St Edward’s
Contact: Fr John — frowens@pm.me
“What God has joined together,
let no one separate.”
(Matthew 19:6)
That is the heart of Christian Marriage.
St. Mary's, St. John Bosco and St. Edward's 