We share your happiness and pray that God blesses you abundantly during your time of marriage preparation and throughout your married life. Marriage usually is experienced on two levels — personal and public. It is personal in that it involves two individuals a man and a woman who promise to become one in a covenant of love.
It is public because it provides companionship, continues the human race and assures the welfare of family life and society at large. As Christians, we recognize a third dimension of marriage, the spiritual. We believe when men and women commit to a marriage in faith, we get a glimpse of the deep love that God has for us.
Therefore, your marriage is more than a private contract or public exchange of vows. It is an act of worship in which you promise to love each other and receive promises of support from your families, friends and the whole church as represented by a priest or deacon. Your wedding is more than “your day” because you also celebrate and rejoice with the church. Your guests come not just to watch, but to participate by offering their support and encouragement in your lives.
Those who seek to be married at St. Raphael Catholic Church must make an appointment with the priest or deacon at lease six months before the intended wedding date. At that time all information, regulations, guidelines regarding marriage and fees for your wedding at St. Raphael will be shared.