Holy Matrimony
Sacred Scripture begins with the creation and union of man and woman and ends with "the wedding feast of the Lamb" (Rev 19:7, 9). Scripture often refers to marriage, its origin and purpose, the meaning God gave to it, and its renewal in the covenant made by Jesus with his Church. In Christian marriage, spouses model the love and self-gift of Christ. By giving of themselves and serving one another, their family and community, they help one another live out Christ's call to discipleship, love and service. Marriage provides a foundation for a family committed to community, solidarity and Jesus' mission in the world.
By their marriage, the couple witnesses Christ's spousal love for the Church. One of the Nuptial Blessings in the liturgical celebration of marriage refers to this in saying, "Father, you have made the union of man and wife so holy a mystery that it symbolizes the marriage of Christ and his Church."
The Sacrament of Marriage is a covenant, which is more than a contract. Covenant always expresses a relationship between persons. The marriage covenant refers to the relationship between the husband and wife, a permanent union of persons capable of knowing and loving each other and God. The celebration of marriage is also a liturgical act, appropriately celebrated within Mass at church.
If you wish to celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony at St. Patrick's, contact the Office to schedule an appointment to meet with Father Kevin.
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Looking for help or healing in your marriage? Try The Third Option, a program from the Diocese to help build better marriages. Have you already separated or divorced? Get in touch with the Diocese's Separated/Divorced Ministry which offers regional support groups, retreats and can give you information about annulments. And please don't hesitate to reach out to Father Kevin if you'd like to speak with him.