Marriage Preparation
Preparation for marriage should begin six months before the desired wedding date. To begin the process, please call the parish office (573)793-6550 to set up an appointment. Some normal requirements of the preparation process are:
- A series of meetings with the priest or deacon
- FOCCUS Marriage Preparations Assessment
- A pre-cana class or weekend retreat
- Marriage Preparation Classes
Information on these can be found on the website of the Diocese of Jefferson City.
In addition, the US Catholic Bishops have just announced the release of a new video intended for engaged couples. “Saying I Do: What Happens at a Catholic Wedding” serves as an introduction to the Rite of Marriage and answers questions frequently asked about Catholic marriage. The video also includes a brief overview of the sacrament and an explanation of the three forms of the Rite of Marriage. All couples are encouraged to watch this video before starting to plan their wedding.
IMPORTANT REMINDER: Church law binds anyone baptized in the Catholic Church or received into it to be married in the presence of a priest or deacon and two witnesses, unless a dispensation from canonical form has been granted. If you require any further information about this situation, please discuss this with a priest at your earliest convenience.