The marriage covenant, by which a man and a woman form with each other an intimate communion of life and love, has been founded and endowed with its own special laws by the Creator. By its very nature it is ordered to the good of the couple, as well as to the generation and education of children. Christ the Lord raised marriage between the baptized to the dignity of a sacrament (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1660)
At St. Patrick Catholic Church we believe, teach, and uphold what the Catholic Church believes, teaches and upholds concerning the sacrament of marriage. The Church teaches that marriage is a lifelong covenant between a man and a women for the spiritual and material good of the couple, and for the generation and education of children. It's ultimate purpose is to help you, your spouse and your children make it to Heaven.
To enter into the marriage preparation program at St. Patrick's Catholic Church an engaged couple must:
* Have at least one party that is a baptized and practicing Catholic.
* Complete the following form truthfully and totally.
* Register as parishioners (if not already registered at another parish).
* Be engaged in the community and attend 10 a.m. Sunday Mass for at least 3 months prior to beginning the marriage preparation program.
* Meet with the Marriage Preparation Coordinator for the Freedom to Marry Interview and signing of contracts
* Set a wedding date
* Attend the marriage preparation program at St. Patrick's (marriage prep consists of six classes every two weeks for three months on Saturday from 10 a.m. -12 p.m. In addition, there are 2 meetings with the pastor and three dinner meetings with a sponsor couple over the course of the preparation period. Marriage preparation runs in the 1st, 2nd, and 4th quarter of each year).
* Commit to living as brother and sister and cease engaging in all sexual activity until after marriage.
* Be open to children after marriage
