Sacramental Marriage Preparation

The Church has traditionally had a great concern that engaged couples have the opportunity to grow in the love they will pledge on their wedding day. Preparation for the Sacrament of Marriage aims to assist couples in developing a fuller understanding of the unique nature of the marriage covenant. Marriage is one of the seven Sacraments of the Catholic Church, a sacrament of “vocation.” It celebrates God’s summons to the engaged couple to form a permanent “community of life and love” patterned on the love of Christ.

Marriage preparation at St. Margaret Mary Church is aimed at helping engaged couples to reflect upon their marriage commitment as a part of God’s unique plan for their life together. Time is therefore required to consider the profound meaning of the marriage vows, to complete the necessary marriage forms and records, and to plan the wedding liturgy. Ideally, marriage preparation should begin at least one year from the time of the scheduled date.

Steps in the Process

Schedule wedding date
Attend Wedding Workshop
First Interview with Priest to review FOCCUS
Marriage Preparation with Sponsor couples, Engaged Encounter Weekend, or the Marriage Group (an online option)
Appointment with Music Director to review wedding liturgy
Second Interview with Priest - to complete marriage forms
Wedding Ceremony Review (if necessary)
Wedding Rehearsal
Policies and Procedures
Freude Room Contract - Please review if you are planning to use the Freude Room. A $125 security deposit will be required for use of the room.
Guidelines for Selecting Readings and Music for Your Wedding Liturgy- coming soon
Music Selections
Readings for the Wedding Liturgy
Planning Sheet (Save this document to your local computer, complete the form and email it to mmurphy@smmlb.org.)
Sample worship aid for Rite of Marriage Outside of Mass
Sample worship aid for Rite of Marriage within Mass
Together for Life Online (resources for prayer and reading selections)