Marriage

🌿 What is the Sacrament of Matrimony?

The Sacrament of Matrimony is a lifelong partnership of love and fidelity, established by God and raised by Christ to the dignity of a sacrament.
In marriage, spouses help each other grow in holiness and are open to the gift of life — becoming a reflection of God’s faithful love in the world. ✝️

💒 Who can receive this sacrament?

Any baptized man and woman who are free to marry according to the laws of the Catholic Church may receive the Sacrament of Matrimony.
Couples are called to approach this sacrament freely, faithfully, and prayerfully, with a desire to build their marriage on the foundation of Christ.

📅 How far in advance should we contact the parish?

Couples planning to be married at St. Mary’s Parish are asked to contact the Parish Office at least six (6) months in advance of the desired wedding date.

📞 (905) 768-5726
📧 stmarystann@saintcd.com

This allows time for proper preparation, paperwork, and scheduling, as well as participation in a Marriage Preparation Program required by the Diocese of St. Catharines.

🕊️ What is marriage preparation?

Marriage preparation helps engaged couples reflect on their relationship, communication, faith, and the sacred promises they will make before God.
Programs are offered through the Diocese of St. Catharines and nearby parishes.
The parish will assist couples in finding and registering for a suitable program.

🕯️ What documents are required?

• Recent Baptismal Certificates (issued within the past 6 months)

• Confirmation Certificates (if available)

• Freedom to Marry forms (completed at the parish)

• Marriage Preparation Certificate (upon completion of the program)

If one partner is not Catholic, special permissions may be required. The parish priest will guide the couple through the process with care and understanding.

💐 Can we have a wedding during Mass?

Yes! Catholic weddings can be celebrated within a Nuptial Mass (especially when both are Catholic) or without a Mass (if one is not Catholic).
In either form, the ceremony is a sacred celebration of God’s love and blessing upon your marriage.

🙏 Can a non-Catholic marry a Catholic in the Church?

Yes. A Catholic may marry a baptized non-Catholic (Christian) or even a person of another faith with proper dispensation.
The Catholic partner promises to continue living the faith and to raise any children in the Catholic Church to the best of their ability.

🕊️ What if one of us was previously married?

If either person has been previously married, a discussion with the parish priest is necessary before any date is set.
The Church must ensure that both individuals are free to marry according to Church law.
Fr. Stephen will assist with any needed processes, such as an annulment request, with pastoral care and discretion.

💞 How can we keep our marriage strong after the wedding?

Marriage is a lifelong journey of love and faith. Couples are encouraged to:

• Pray together daily 🙏

• Participate in Sunday Mass regularly ⛪

• Communicate openly and lovingly 💬

• Keep Christ at the center of your home ❤️

• Seek strength through the Sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation

The parish community is here to support you every step of the way!

📍 Weddings at St. Mary’s Parish

Beautiful and reverent wedding celebrations are held in our parish church, surrounded by the love of family and friends.
Fr. Stephen and the parish team will assist with all liturgical and logistical preparations, ensuring your day is sacred, joyful, and memorable.