Some couples wonder why it is necessary to attend classes and take part in a series of counseling sessions in order to get married at Holy Rosary; with so many other things to do during the engagement, why does it take so long to arrange a church wedding? Although it is true that some time will be spent coordinating the wedding itself, your biggest investment of time will be devoted to the marriage. When you call the office to inquire about a wedding date, you are in fact asking to receive a Sacrament. Few people would expect to call and schedule a date for Confirmation, then show up six months or a year later ”all dressed up “ and ready to go! Marriage is a Sacrament, and like Holy Orders, a Sacrament of Vocation. Compare the preparation for marriage with that for a priest, and the small commitment that church asks of you will seem modest, to say the least!

Couples married civilly may wish to have their marriages “blessed.” This is called a convalidation, and the procedures are the same as for engaged couples. If either party has been divorced, the Director of Education will be happy to meet with you to discuss your situation, and assist you if you wish to pursue a Tribunal decision.

If you are interested in being married at Holy Rosary, please read the guidelines and introductory letter online, or request copies from the parish office. If you are a parishioner intending to be married elsewhere, you may still need to initiate the paperwork here, so please discuss this with the pastor of the church where you are to be married. All marriage preparation is done through the Director of Education.