Holy Matrimony
Sacrament of Holy Matrimony
The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership for the whole of life, is by its nature ordered toward the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring; this covenant between baptized persons has been raised by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a sacrament. (Chapman, Geoffrey. Catechism of the Catholic Church, page 358)
The mutual sacrifice and devotion of husband and wife is a true picture of Christ's sanctifying sacrifice and devotion to His Church. 'Matrimony has its significance in the first place from Christ who took the Church as his bride at the price of his own blood. And also because when he offered his life as the price of her ransom, he stretched out his arms in an embrace of supreme love. And thirdly: as Eve was formed from the side of Adam while he slept, so the Church was formed from the side of the dying and dead Christ, as the two chief sacraments poured from his side - the blood of redemption and the water of absolution'.
(http://www.catholic.org/prayers/sacrament.php?id=7)
Below are some guidelines to help with your wedding arrangements:
- Arrangements for wedding must be made at least 6 months in advance before the date of the Marriage
- Couples who are seriously contemplating marriage must attend either:
Engaged Encounter (EE) OR
Marriage Preparation Course (MPC)
- Check with the parish office that the church is available on the selected date, and then confirm with the priest of your choice that he is free to preside at the wedding.
- Fix a date for an interview with the priest.
- Musical Accompaniment: You may engage any of the choirs available in our parish or you may make your own private arrangements for singers and musicians.
- Booking of Parish Hall for wedding reception: Please liaise with the Parish Secretary in booking the Parish Hall. You will be advised of the applicable rates for using the Hall.
For more information, please contact the Secretariat Office at 6264 0078.