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Sacred Scripture begins with the creation and union of man and woman and ends with "the wedding feast of the Lamb" (Rev 19:7, 9). Scripture often refers to marriage, its origin and purpose, the meaning God gave to it, and its renewal in the covenant made by Jesus with his Church.
Man and woman were created for each other.
By their marriage, the couple witnesses Christ's spousal love for the Church. One of the Nuptial Blessings in the liturgical celebration of marriage refers to this in saying, "Father, you have made the union of man and wife so holy a mystery that it symbolizes the marriage of Christ and his Church."
The Sacrament of Marriage is a covenant, which is more than a contract. Covenant always expresses a relationship between persons. The marriage covenant refers to the relationship between the husband and wife, a permanent union of persons capable of knowing and loving each other and God. The celebration of marriage is also a liturgical act, appropriately held in a public liturgy at church. Catholics are urged to celebrate their marriage within the Eucharistic Liturgy.
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Wedding Preparation Timeline
9 to 24 Months Ahead
Visit the church and consult the Priest or Deacon.
· After confirming wedding celebration date, book wedding reception venue.
· Determine your budget and what kind of wedding (formal, informal, etc.)
· Choose your attendants.
· Draw up your invitation list.
· Shop for dresses, tuxedos, accessories, etc.
· Interview photographers, florists, caterers, videographers, etc.
· Determine your guest list.
4 to 9 Months Ahead
After wedding date has been set
· Order invitations, personal stationary and note paper.
After the wedding date has been set
· Plan your reception.
· Plan your honeymoon.
· Make sure you are keeping up the required Marriage Preparation
Consult your Priest or Deacon to ensure you are up to date.
2 to 4 Months Ahead
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Plan accommodations for out-of-town guests.
· Plan how to handle traffic, parking, etc.
· Finalize your guest list and mail your invitations.
· Schedule meeting with Music Director to plan music for the wedding.
1 to 2 Months Ahead
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Plan your rehearsal dinner.
2 to 4 Weeks Ahead
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Get your marriage license.
(In the state of Texas, the license is valid 72 hours after the date of issuance and for 90 days thereafter. You must marry within this time frame or the license is not valid.)
· Send your wedding announcement to the newspaper.
· Plan seating for reception.
· Contact the necessary offices for the bride to change name on Social Security Card,
Driver’s License, bank accounts, credit cards and obtain the necessary forms.
· Bring the payment for the musicians to the Parish Office.
· Take care of any last minute items.
1 Week Ahead
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Have final consultaion with wedding personnel, confirm number of guests with caterer, etc.
· Confirm rehearsal plans with clergy and attendants.