Matrimony

The Sacrament of Holy Matrimony is a sacred covenant, uniting a man and a woman in lifelong love and fidelity before God. Through this sacrament, couples receive the grace to strengthen their union, grow in holiness, and build a family rooted in faith. Marriage reflects Christ’s love for His Church, calling spouses to a life of self-giving, commitment, and service.

At Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, we are honored to guide engaged couples through Witness to Love, a marriage preparation program designed to help them build a strong, Christ-centered foundation for their future together.

Steps for Marriage Preparation at Blessed Sacrament

  1. Contact the Parish
    • Couples should reach out to the parish office at least six months before their desired wedding date to begin the marriage preparation process.
  2. Initial Meeting with a Priest
    • The couple will meet with our Priest to discuss the sacrament, preparation process, and requirements.
  3. Participation in the Witness to Love Program
    • Couples will select a mentor couple from within the parish who will accompany them through the marriage preparation journey.
    • Meetings with the mentor couple will include discussions on faith, communication, and marriage dynamics.
    • 6-8 months is required for the marriage preparation process
  4. Natural Family Planning (NFP) Course
    • As part of marriage preparation, couples are required to take a Natural Family Planning (NFP) class, typically completed online.
    • This course provides a Catholic understanding of fertility, family planning, and the beauty of God’s design for married love.
  5. Completion of Required Documentation
    • Baptismal certificates (issued within the last six months) for both individuals.
    • Witness affidavits
    • Civil marriage license (at the time of the wedding).
  6. Planning the Wedding Liturgy
    • Couples will meet with the Priest or Liturgy Committee member to plan their wedding ceremony, including scripture readings, music, and other liturgical elements.
  7. Sacrament of Reconciliation
    • Engaged couples are encouraged to receive the Sacrament of Confession before their wedding day, preparing their hearts for the sacred vows they will exchange.

We look forward to supporting you on this journey toward a Christ-centered marriage. For more details or to begin the marriage preparation process, please contact our marriage prep coordinator Audreana Derhake at 217.222.2759.

 

Wedding