The Church looks on marriage as a “covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life” (Catechism 1601). In its understanding of marriage, the Church looks back to the union between man and woman ordained by God in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 1-2). Christ worked his first miracle in the context of a wedding feast. In the Sacrament of Matrimony, the married couple becomes, in their unity and in their love for one another, “an efficacious sign of Christ’s presence” (Catechism 1613).
Thank you for considering the possibility of being married at St. Andrew. We want to support and assist you in the best way possible as you embark on this very important commitment in your lives.
This page is intended to answer a few of the questions which are most likely on your mind at this time. It may also help you to raise some questions which haven’t yet occurred to you but which will be important for you to consider as you make plans for your wedding.
Who can be married at St. Andrew?
Normally, those who are registered parishioners of the Parish. The Catholic Church has a long tradition of celebrating the sacraments within one’s own community of faith. However, there can be exceptions to this. For example, couples who have relatives at St. Andrew or those who have moved away and wish to return to the parish to celebrate the sacrament.
Who is able to officiate at weddings At St. Andrew?
The Pastor, Father Zegar, normally officiates at weddings. But permission can be given for a priest- or deacon-friend to officiate. And, as indicated above, if you belong to another parish in the Archdiocese, your pastor will be the appropriate person to approach in this matter.
Are people who are not of the Catholic faith able to be married at St. Andrew?
They are, if they are marrying a Catholic.
Are people who have been married before able to be married in the Catholic Church?
In general, the answer to this question is no. That is because the Catholic Church regards marriage as a permanent commitment. However, because there are exceptions and extenuating circumstances, you would be well advised to discuss it as soon as possible with the priest or deacon whom you approach about officiating at your wedding.
Is some sort of preparation needed for couples wishing to be married?
Yes. Since marriage in the Catholic Church is a sacrament and a lifetime commitment, we value and honor it is by taking time to help couples prepare. The pastor will assist couples with this preparation process.
When may weddings take place at St Andrew?
Saturday is the usual day for weddings to be celebrated. They are never celebrated on Sundays. Also, weddings during the season of Lent are usually discouraged.
Do Catholic weddings always take place during Mass?
No. Weddings can be celebrated either during the celebration of Mass or during a Liturgy of the Word. Normally, weddings are celebrated during Mass only when both parties are of the Catholic faith.
Does the parish have policies regarding the content of the wedding service, the music to be used, etc?
Yes. The content of the service is set forth in the Church’s official Ritual Book for weddings. However, the couple being married is encouraged to engage in helping to plan the wedding service by choosing the Scripture readings that will be used. There are certain other options for the service, too, which will be explained to you. The parish also has standards and policies regarding the music to be used at a wedding. The director of music and liturgy can assist you with your planning.
How does a parishioner arrange to get a wedding on the parish calendar?
If you are a parishioner of St. Andrew Parish, you may begin scheduling a wedding by calling the parish office up to 14 months, and no less than 9 months before your desired wedding date.
PLEASE NOTE:
The above steps should be followed before you finalize any arrangements regarding the reception venue, contracts with photographers, florists, etc.