In the love that a husband and wife have for each other, the Church sees a sign or ‘sacrament’ of God’s love for us. In the Bible, the image of a bride and groom is used frequently to describe God’s commitment to His people (His bride). The image of a wedding feast or banquet is used also, especially by Jesus, to describe the happiness that awaits us in heaven.

If you are planning to get married at St. Peter and St. Michael, you are required by the Church to set aside some time to prepare for the important step you are about to take. 

If both of you are free to marry in the Catholic Church then this is the usual timetable:

• Meet with the parish priest to set a firm date and time for your wedding.
• Make the necessary legal arrangements with the Registrar of Marriages.
• Take part in a Marriage Preparation Course undertaken by our parish priest.
• Contact the Flower Arrangers of your choice.
• Contact an organist (if required)
• Obtain up-to-date Baptism Certificates.
• Complete the Prenuptial Enquiry with the priest.
• At least three months before the wedding, contact the priest to arrange your wedding liturgy (i.e. Scripture readings, hymns, prayers, intercessions, etc.).
• At least two weeks before your wedding, arrange the wedding rehearsal with the priest.
• A few days before the wedding, take part in the rehearsal and pay the wedding fees (church and organist etc)

To begin the marriage process, please contact us at our parish email address shown alongside or direct to Deacon Jim at j.mcgraw@rcaol.org.uk