Sacred Scripture begins with the creation and union of man and woman and ends with "the wedding feast of the Lamb" (Rev 19:7, 9). Scripture often refers to marriage, its origin and purpose, the meaning God gave to it, and its renewal in the covenant made by Jesus with his Church.  Man and woman were created for each other.

By their marriage, the couple witnesses Christ's spousal love for the Church. One of the Nuptial Blessings in the liturgical celebration of marriage refers to this in saying, "Father, you have made the union of man and wife so holy a mystery that it symbolizes the marriage of Christ and his Church." 

The Sacrament of Marriage is a covenant, which is more than a contract. Covenant always expresses a relationship between persons. The marriage covenant refers to the relationship between the husband and wife, a permanent union of persons capable of knowing and loving each other and God. The celebration of marriage is also a liturgical act, appropriately held in a public liturgy at church. Catholics are urged to celebrate their marriage within the Eucharistic Liturgy. 

To learn more about the Sacrament of Marriage click here

The Sacrament of Marriage at Mary Mother:

The Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis set the guidelines for marriage preparation in this diocese.  While the list of requirements may seem long, you are making a decision that impacts the rest of your life … some preparation would be prudent.  The following are necessary steps to celebrate the sacrament of marriage at Mary Mother. 

1)      Contact the church and begin preparation a minimum of six months prior to the wedding date
2)      Initial meeting with celebrant
3)      Request copies of Baptism certificates dated no more than six months from the wedding date
4)      A weekend (or equivalent) marriage retreat
5)      Taking a Pre-marital Inventory
6)      Meetings with Marriage Mentor Couple to review Inventory
7)      Meet with music director
8)      Liturgy Planning Workshop
9)      Request dispensations if necessary
10)    Final meeting with celebrant

If there are previous marriages for either the bride or groom, more time may be required to sort those out. 

For questions or more information click here.