Scriptures begin with the creation of man and woman and ends with the wedding feast of the Lamb. Jesus entered the public ministry at the wedding of Cana, when he turned water into wine. Evidently, marriage reveals something about God’s relationship with us.

The Sacrament of Matrimony signifies the union of Christ and the Church. It gives spouses the grace to love each other with the love with which Christ has loved his Church; the grace of the sacrament thus perfects the human love of the spouses, strengthens their indissoluble unity, and sanctifies them on the way to eternal life.

Marriage is elevated to the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony when both spouses are Catholic, and so bear witness to Christ’s union with his Church. Matrimony therefore isn’t so much a Sacrament that the couple receives as it is a Sacrament that they become.

Husband and wife are therefore called to mirror Christ in Holy Matrimony. They are called to give of themselves in a manner that is free, total, faithful, and fruitful. According to the Lord’s own teaching, the matrimonial union is indissoluble (see Mt 19:4-6, Mk 10:7-9), just as Christ never withdraws his love from us in spite of our failings.

How to receive the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony (Marriage)

•   Both parties are practising Catholics who are free to marry. Those in irregular marital situations (eg. civil divorce) must consult the Marriage Tribunal beforehand.
•   If only one is a practising Catholic, the Church will only bless your union.
•   Attend a pre-nuptial course approved by the Church, such as the Marriage Preparation Course or Engaged Encounter.
•   Register your interest at least 12 months before the wedding at the parish where you intend to marry.
•   Contact your parish for more information.