In the sacrament of Matrimony, we encounter Jesus as He reveals and deepens for us

the mystery of both God’s love for His people and His own love for His Church.

Matrimony is a covenant bond that mirrors the Old Testament Covenant of God and His

people. Just as God has always been faithful to His covenant, the sacramental marriage

bond is one of commitment and fidelity. Matrimony also mirrors the New Testament

Covenant of Jesus and His Church, a Covenant of self-giving love so great that Jesus died

for Her. That same self-giving love is also a hallmark of Matrimony. Lived by the couple,

with the help of the special grace of the sacrament, Matrimony is a permanent and

exclusive covenant which reveals to others the wonderful love of God as the spouses

support each other and any children God has given them to grow in holiness.

CELEBRATING MATRIMONY

The sacrament of Matrimony is celebrated in the church. Engaged couples of Holy

Redeemer Parish are expected to begin marriage preparations at least six months in

advance, although one year in advance is preferable. They should first contact the office

to schedule an initial meeting with the pastor. Other requirements will be discussed at

that initial meeting.

If you are a Catholic who has been married outside of the Church, and would like

information about having your marriage convalidated, you are warmly invited to contact

the parish office or Father Hadden for information and assistance in helping you and

your family celebrate this beautiful sacrament.

If you are a non-Catholic who would like to know more about the Catholic faith or the

sacrament of Matrimony you are warmly invited to check out the newcomer’s section of

this website, and to contact the parish office or Father Hadden for more information.

WHAT THE SAINTS SAY ABOUT MATRIMONY

“To maintain a joyful family requires much from both the parents and the children. Each

member of the family has to become, in a special way, the servant of the others.” St.

John Paul II

“Lord, grant that I might not so much seek to be loved as to love,” St, Francis of Assisi