Marriage Preparation
at St. Fidelis Basilica
The Sacrament of Matrimony is more than a wedding day—it is a lifelong covenant of love, faithfully reflecting Christ's love for His Church (Ephesians 5:25–32). It is through this sacrament that a man and a woman receive God's grace to build a holy family, grow together in faith, and become a living witness of the Gospel.
With that said, Marriage preparation is an important part of this journey. It offers engaged couples the opportunity to deepen their relationship with one another and with Christ, reflect on the meaning of the sacrament, and prepare for the joys and responsibilities of married life. We want to walk with you as best we can as you prepare to enter into this sacred vocation.
The preparation process can take anywhere between 6 months to at least a year. This includes meeting with your pastor, gathering all of your sacramental records and planning the liturgy itself. Below is a simple guideline to help you as you and your spouse make this journey.
call or email the office to begin the inital meeting with your Pastor
Initial Meeting
You are recently engaged and now you've come to the right place! In this first meeting the Priest will explain the preparation process, begin the prenuptial agreement. This first step is crucial. Call or email the office today to schedule an appointment.
Couple's Assessment
The Couple's assessement is an effective tool measuring how each party relates to one another in seven categories: finance management, communication, conflict resolution, personal values, affection and intimacy, roles and responsibilities, and lastly family & children. Your priest will help you begin this assessment.
Sacramental Records
Any person getting married in the Catholic Church should provide proof of their sacramental records (Baptism, Confirmation, First Communion). We will ask for a recent copy of your baptismal certificate.
Engaged Encounter Retreat
Each couple preparing for Marriage is required to attend an Engaged Encounter Retreat. You will join other couples, grow in community and faith while learning the theology and spirituality of marriage.
Marriage Prep Coursework
Before we begin planning the liturgy, it's important you do the coursework of Marriage Prep. These are seminars on important topics such as the Theology and Spirituality of Marriage, Sexuality & Intimacy, Mission & Purpose of Marriage, Finances, Effective Communication & Natural Family Planning.
Liturgy Planning
Before your wedding day, you will begin meeting with your pastor to plan your wedding liturgy. Everything from the readings, the prayers and the blessings. Options to use our wedding Coordinator is also an option.
Non-Parishioner Weddings
Any non-parishioner weddings would have to be approved first by the Pastor pending availability of the church, parish events, etc before reserving your wedding day. All documents and necessary preparation would have to be completed and sent to the parish office before the date of the wedding.
Please call the office to learn more about dates, requirements and cost.