All those wishing to receive a Sacrament must have some form of Sacrament Preparation. We hope that those who are about to make a lifelong commitment of love to one another will approach their decision with great seriousness, as well as with joyful hearts. The arrangements for marriage should begin at least six months in advance. If one or both or you are under the age of 19, please allow for an additional month or so.
The basic steps to get married at St. Maria Goreti are as follows:
1. Information package: needs to be obtained from the Parish Office at least six months prior to the tentative wedding date.
2. First appointment with a priest: the date and time for the wedding will be reserved and ‘Form A’ will be filled out. Couples will receive a book that will help them prepare their religious ceremony. The church offering is made at this time.
3. Follow-up appointment with the priest: after you complete all the necessary preparation, the couple has a follow-up appointment with the priest for the purpose of finalizing the wedding date and ‘Form B’ witness questionnaire. This form to be filled out at the last appointment with the priest. A parent of the bride and a parent of the groom must fill out this form. If parent is not available, someone who has known you for a long time may fill out this form.
4. Rehearsal: The rehearsal date and time will be set when the couple reserve the church. It is conducted by the Wedding Coordinator. She will attend the wedding to assist the wedding party before the celebration which will last about one hour. All who are involved in the ceremony should plan to be there.
“May the Lord bless you abundantly in your new life together.”