Through the sacrament of matrimony God unites the bride and groom in an unbreakable covenant; a sacrament through which the two commit to one and other for life, through the highs and lows, before God and their witnesses: normally their family and friends gathered in the Church.

As the sacrament is entered into before God and the priest as God’s representative, it can take place solely in the Church. The Church chosen should have some connection to the bride and/ or groom, reflecting their commitment before God as part of the Christian community.

When preparing for marriage, engaged couples should speak to their priest before making any other wedding arrangements or setting a date. At least six months notice must be given, whether the wedding is to take place in the home parish or abroad, in order to enable marriage preparation to take place and to fulfil the requirements of Canon Law.