MATRIMONY
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