The Sacrament of Matrimony
"The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of 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." (CCC 1604)
At Ave Maria Parish, Catholics intending to celebrate the sacrament of Matrimony must notify the parish at least 6 months before the proposed wedding date. At least one party must be a registered parishioner who attends weekend Mass regularly. Please contact Sister for the pre-marriage forms, other requirements and any questions you may have.
The Sacrament of Matrimony binds the couple together that as husband and wife they form a covenant with God. It is a specific vocation, a response to that particular calling of God to share their lives together as one. This bond lasts forever. It is a unity that is permanent, faithful, and fruitful. The union of man and woman create the foundation of the family, a "domestic church", a basic and fundamental structure for society.
"God who created man out of love also calls him to love the fundamental and innate vocation of every human being. For man is created in the image and likeness of God who is himself love.90 Since God created him man and woman, their mutual love becomes an image of the absolute and unfailing love with which God loves man. It is good, very good, in the Creator's eyes. And this love which God blesses is intended to be fruitful and to be realized in the common work of watching over creation: "And God blessed them, and God said to them: 'Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it.'" (CCC 1604)