A Lifelong Covenant
"So, they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, man must not separate."
(Matthew 19:6)
A Catholic wedding is a sacrament where a man and a woman enter a lifelong, unitive, and procreative covenant of marriage in the presence of God and the Church, characterized by the free exchange of consent and participation in the Eucharist or a Liturgy of the Word.
The sacrament of marriage is a rich source of God’s grace. Initially, God seals the bond of love between the bride and the groom when they exchange their promises. From that day forward, God provides a constant and uninterrupted flow of grace to help their love grow, intensify and flourish.
Elements of the Covenant
- A Sacrament: A Catholic wedding is considered one of the seven sacraments, a sacred sign of God's grace given to the couple.
- Lifelong Covenant: The marriage is a permanent commitment between husband and wife, a complete gift of self, mirroring Christ's covenant with the Church.
- Free Exchange of Consent: Both partners must freely and willingly agree to marry.
- Presence of God & Church: The ceremony is a public liturgical act held in church.
- Open to Life: The marriage is open to the procreative aspect of children, allowing couples to share in God's creative nature.
Planning Your Wedding at St. John the Baptist
Please review our official documents below for a complete guide on requirements, logistics, and offerings for your special day.
Dates & Requirements
- One or both parties MUST be Catholic.
- Schedule: Friday (6:00 pm) & Saturday (11:30 a.m. or 2:00 p.m.). We do not celebrate weddings on Sundays.
- Registered Parishioner: Defined as an active Catholic who is officially registered and has resided in the parish for at least 1 year prior to the first call.
- Selecting a Priest: Contact the Parish Office at least 7 months in advance.
- Visiting Priests/Deacons: Most welcome! They must contact our Pastor for official delegation. A Letter of Good Standing is required 3 months prior.
Paperwork & Logistics
- 6 Months Prior: Submit newly "updated" Baptismal Certificates, plus copies of First Communion & Confirmation.
- Prior Marriages: Annulment decree, divorce decree, or previous marriage license must be provided.
- County License & Witnesses: You must bring a County Marriage License and choose two witnesses.
- Preparation: You will meet the priest at least 3 times. Couples must take the online PREPARE/ENRICH Premarital Inventory (PMI) and parish pre-marital classes.
- Details: The Liturgy Coordinator will guide you. Flowers for the main altar are $75, and the aisle arrangement/carpet package is $350. Mariachis/bands are not permitted without priest approval.
Sacrament of Marriage (2026)
Please note: The full amount (Mass price + Security deposit) must be paid to book the date.
*Security Deposit: Deposit is refunded a week or so after the marriage celebration, if the couple does not arrive late (10 minutes maximum from the arranged time) or leave any damage/garbage.
For more information, to start the process, or to discuss pricing, please contact our Parish Office:
(815) 727-4788
secretary@sjbcatholic.com