Marriage is the unique Sacrament which binds one man and one woman together in a covenant under God and His Church. It is a Sacrament of vocation, a response to a specific calling that God has placed in the hearts of a couple. It is a bond that lasts for life which is permanent, faithful, and fruitful. Marriage is not just about two people, but is the foundation of the family, the "domestic church," the most basic and foundational structure, not only for the Church, but for all of society.
Congratulations on your engagement! We are happy to help you plan your wedding at St. Thomas More. The Sacrament of Marriage requires a preparation period which begins with the couple contacting one of our priests at least six months in advance of the wedding date. Please set up your appointment with one of our priests before any reception locations are confirmed. Couples meet with a parish priest to set the wedding date and to schedule appointments for marriage planning. They are required to participate in marriage preparation programs at the parish and at the diocese level.
If your marriage took place outside of the Catholic Church but you would lilke to have your marriage recognized and blessed through the Catholic Church our priests are happy to help you with that process which is called "convalidation". Call the parish office and request to make an appointment with one of our priests to discuss how to begin that process.
Here is a link to a helpful article that may provide information before your meeting with one of our priests.
Convalidation