Marriage is a beautiful and sacred vocation. It is a way of life in which two people commit themselves to each other for life. In this vocation you are called to grow as Christian persons in your relationship with each other and the rest of society.
Your marriage has a social dimension because it involves not only two of you but also your faith community and the rest of society. As Catholic people we are happy to celebrate your marriage with you. We want the celebration of your marriage to be dignified and worthy of the beauty of the vocation which you have chosen. Hence, this information sheet is meant as a general guide in your preparation.
Marriage of Two Catholics
The Church encourages all Catholics to be married during a Nuptial Mass and to receive Holy Communion along with their families and friends. Please be reminded, however, that non-Catholics are not permitted to receive Holy Communion. Planning this Mass is an important part of your preparation. The booklet “Together for Life” will help you to plan a Liturgy which will speak to your particular celebration. The schedule for marriage ceremonies in our church is on Saturday 1 and 3 pm.
Marriage of a Catholic and a Non-Catholic
To have a Nuptial Mass at a mixed marriage presents its difficulties. Therefore as a rule a mix marriage is to be celebrated outside of the Mass (only Liturgy of the Word). Music The music for your marriage ought to speak with dignity and reverence of the solemn occasion you are celebrating. Secular music is not allowed in the church. It is the duty of the bride and groom to contact our Music Director Lia O’Hara at music@stjosephcalgary.com.
Ushers
Good ushers are important. They ought to be able to treat your guests with the dignity that you wish them to be treated. They ought to treat our Church with respect and carry out their function in a dignified manner. Unruly behaviour without respect on the part of the ushers and your guests is insulting to us as we consider our Church a sacred place. The ushers can help a great deal in setting a good atmosphere.
Photographers
We can readily understand your wish to have photos of your marriage. You will agree, that a continuous series of flashes in the Church and the glare of movie lights is a grave menace to the reverence due the sacredness of your wedding. We ask you, therefore, to designate one photographer who will take all of your pictures in the Church. This will avoid the distraction of a number of people moving around the Church. After the signing of the register an opportunity will be provided for your guest to take a photo of the wedding party.
Marriage Stipends
A Catholic Priest is not “paid” for performing marriages. Our guidelines suggest that an offering of $250.00 be made to the Church. Out of this amount, $20.00 will be given to the Priest or Deacon who officiates at the ceremony.
Rehearsal
Rehearsals can be unruly and confusing at times. Therefore, you should try, in a prudent way, to be respectful and quiet. Opportunity for the Sacrament of Confession is available upon request after the wedding rehearsal.
Reception
The Priest deems it an honour to be invited to your reception. However, the Parish Mass schedule or Parish duties may prevent him from attending.
Confetti
The use of confetti is forbidden. In short, confetti makes a big mess in the Church and kills the grass.
Flowers
Flowers are your responsibility. Only real flowers may be used at the altar.
Documents Needed
- Baptismal certificate – for Catholics, a recent baptismal certificate is needed. It should be issued within six months of your wedding date. Baptized Protestants are asked to provide a photocopy of their Baptismal certificate.
- Marriage License – To obtain your marriage license, you must present a Birth Certificate. The license is valid for up to 3 months. You can obtain a marriage license at any Alberta Registry Office.
In Conclusion
The Church wishes, as we’re sure you do, to celebrate your marriage with dignity and reverence. In order for this to happen, everyone (bride, groom, priest, musician, altar servers and your guests) must work and pray together. May God bless an guide you in your marriage preparations.
For information how to register for the Catholic Marriage Preparation Program go to the Calgary Diocese Marriage Preparation page.