Cover design ©Liturgical Publications Inc. Image of the Marriage at Cana, by Master of the Retable of the Reyes Catholicos n.d.

Matrimony (Marriage)

What is the sacrament of Matrimony?
The sacrament of Matrimony is a covenant, which is more than a contract.  Covenant always expresses a relationship between persons.  The marriage covenant refers to the relationship between the husband and the wife, a permanent union of persons capable of knowing and loving each other and God.  The celebration of marriage is also a liturgical act, appropriately held in a public liturgy at church.  Catholics are urged to celebrate their marriage within the Eucharistic Liturgy.  -USCCB

Engaged Couples
Engaged couples are encouraged to contact the Parish Office at (317) 839-3333 as soon as they begin plans for their marriage, at least one year in advance. 

Marriage Preparation Program
In order for engaged couples to ready themselves for marriage, they participate in our Catholic Marriage Preparation Program.  The couple is assigned a sponsor couple who facilitates the program.  The engaged couple and sponsor couple meet several times prior to the "Big Day."  During these sessions, different aspects of Catholic married life are discussed.  The sessions focus on the four main areas of Marriage and Faith, Marriage and Communication, Marriage and Sexuality, and Marriage and Stewardship.  Church teachings about married life are shared and discussed.  In addition to Church teachings, sponsor couples also share their own experiences as man and wife.  One of the beautiful things about this program is that as the sponsor couple helps the engaged couple, they find that they strengthen their own marriage.  For more information, please contact the Marriage Preparation Coordinator.

Convalidation
If you were married outside the church and are interested in celebrating the sacrament of marriage, please contact the Parish Office at (317) 839-3333.