Preparation for the Sacrament of Marriage

Intermountain Catholic

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Marriage is a permanent, faithful union of one man and one woman, according to the teaching of the Catholic Church. Because marriage is a sacrament, couples should be well-prepared before exchanging vows.

In the Diocese of Salt Lake City, couples preparing for marriage in the Catholic Church are required to contact their pastor at least four months prior to the proposed wedding date. Among the documents that are needed are recent copies of baptismal certificates. The priest or deacon who is arranging the marriage may ask for other documents, as well.

Couples requesting the Sacrament of Marriage are required to attend an introductory Natural Family Planning session. Also, each parish has its own requirements, such as attending an Engaged Encounter Weekend.

A marriage license from the county clerk will be required at the rehearsal; the license is valid for 30 days from the date of issue.

Couples may be asked to postpone their wedding. Among the reasons may be: the Catholic party does not practice the faith and does not intend to return to its practice; evident lack of maturity; failure to participate in the required preparation program; inadequate time for preparation; evident intention against the permanence of marriage, fidelity in marriage or procreation/religious education of children; the Catholic does not intend to have children baptized and raised in the Catholic faith.

(Source: Preparing for Marriage in the Diocese of Salt Lake City)