Matrimony

“The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life, is by its nature ordered toward the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring; this covenant between baptized persons has been raised by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a sacrament.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1601)

Preparation For Marriage

Married couples, in virtue of their Sacrament of Matrimony, express and share in the mystery of marital love that exists between Christ and the Church.  Through your preparation and entering into this holy vocation as married persons you are a symbol of unconditional love and intimate communion between Jesus, (the Groom) and the Church (His bride).

To witness the love of a man and woman made holy in the Sacrament of Matrimony is to see concretely the love between Christ and His Church.  Marriage fills us with great joy and gratitude.  That is why we take the preparation and celebration of this sacrament seriously.

Congratulations if you are anticipating an upcoming wedding!! There are two components to marriage preparation here at St. Jude. One is joining up with a Marriage Ministry Couple who will help you prepare for your married life. The other is Pre-Cana conference which is required by the Catholic Church. If you would like to have your wedding here at St. Jude, we ask that either the bride or groom be a registered active parishioner for at least six months before arranging a date for your marriage. To get started in your preparation process, please call the parish office at least six months before your wedding date.

Annulments

Often individuals are not fully participating in the life of the church because of divorce and remarriage.  Others, civilly divorced, have questions regarding the previous marriage. Any of the parish priests would happily meet with you to discuss the status and possibilities of these particular situations. 

St. Paul said: "Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the Church. This is a great mystery, and I mean in reference to Christ and the Church." 
--Ephesians 5:25, 32