The matrimonial commitment is to be treated as a sacred commitment that requires a substantive preparation for service of God and neighbor in carrying out an important part of the Church's saving mission. This requires the commitment and the ability to commit to a bond that is permanent, faithful, and open to children.

The couple's first step is to download and thoroughly read the Marriage Guidelines (2.35 Mb, ).  After having read the Marriage Guidelines, the couple (not the couple's parents) are to contact the Church office no less than six months before their desired date of marriage.  No commitments are to be made by the couple for facilities (church or reception hall), bride's maids, groom's men, or any other arrangements, until they have discussed them with the Priest / Deacon and received his approval.  The couple must have been interviewed and given approval by the Priest or Deacon to schedule the date of the proposed wedding and have it reserved on the church calendar with the parish secretary.  No date is considered reserved until it has been reserved on both the church calendar and the Priest / Deacon's calendar and the deposit has been paid to the parish secretary.   It is the responsibility of the couple to fulfil all the requirements.  All plans for the wedding are contingent on the couple's successful completion of all the required preparations.

Be sure to read over this Exhortation Before Marriage. (33 kb, )

Also, please read the Catholic Bishops of Pennsylvania article titled "LIVING TOGETHER"