Marriage
Marriage
For baptised Christian’s marriage is a vocational sacrament. Marriage is their calling and way of living out the mission of Jesus Christ. Their married life echoes Christ's love for them and makes them a symbol to others.
The life of the divine persons of God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, is a perfect sharing or communion of life and love. We are made for this type of communion because we are made in God's image. It is a commitment of great dignity and a love that is permanent, faithful, forgiving and life-giving.
At the celebration of marriage, a man and woman say to each other before their families, friends and priest celebrant:
How it unfolds
Begin
Contact the parish at least six months ahead.
Prepare
Marriage preparation with our team.
Celebrate
Exchange vows before God and the community.
"I (name)........, take you, ........... to be my wife/husband. I promise to be true to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health. I will love you and honour you all the days of my life."
For marriage to be valid, couples entering it must be capable of that kind of commitment and intend that kind of relationship. If couples are not capable, or intend, such a relationship then this is not marriage.
Catholics do not have to marry in a church, though this is preferred as the altar symbolises the type of love that marriage is. A total gift of self - after Jesus Christ. It is essential that couples do a marriage preparation course before marrying.
Please contact your local parish office to register for the marriage preparation course and to arrange a meeting to complete the marriage papers with a priest.
Catholic Parish of New Plymouth office, phone (06) 757-3682 email: office@catholicparishnp.nz.
To enquire, contact the Parish Office on 06 757 3682 or office@catholicparishnp.nz.
To enquire, contact the Parish Office on 06 757 3682 or office@catholicparishnp.nz.
Plan your wedding
We are honoured to accompany couples preparing for Marriage.