The Catholic Church bases its teaching on marriage on the words of Jesus Christ. The Church believes “The marriage covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of their whole life, and which of its own very nature is ordered to the well-being of the spouses and to the procreation and education of children, has, between the baptized, been raised by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a Sacrament” (Canon 1055.1, Code of Canon Law).
The marriage covenant gives rise to a much deeper relationship than does a contract. Intrinsic to the marriage covenant is the welfare of the other person, who in this case is one’s spouse.
Those considering marriage at Sacred Heart Church must practice the faith and be registered in the parish, or be the son or daughter of a registered parishioner. Non-parishioners may also be married at Sacred Heart Church with the permission of the pastor.
Engaged couples planning to be married at Sacred Heart Church should make contact with one of the priests or deacons of the parish as soon as they become engaged, but at least six months prior to their planned wedding date. Many couples contact the parish at least one year in advance of their preferred date. Definite plans for the wedding should not be finalized until such contact has been made and the couple’s readiness for marriage has been determined.
Preparation for marriage involves completion of a premarital survey, which facilitates discussion with the priest or deacon preparing you for marriage; participation in one of the marriage preparation programs offered by the Archdiocese of Saint Louis; an introduction to Natural Family Planning; planning the wedding ceremony with the priest or deacon; meeting with the parish director of music or organist to plan the music for the ceremony, and speaking with the parish wedding coordinator to review details of the ceremony so the coordinator can set up the church on the day of the wedding.
To make arrangements, please contact the parish office at 636-225-5268.