Matrimony

Welcome Engaged Couples!
We are so happy that you are planning to celebrate the Sacrament of Matrimony. The special graces of this sacrament are to help both of you respond to your baptismal call to holiness as you start your own family together. We pray that you are using the time of your engagement not only to plan your wedding, but to plan your marriage. Our parish and our diocese help provide you with programs to help you do just that. Aside from participating in these programs, we urge you to attend Sunday Mass together and to develop the habit of praying together. It is only in being total gifts of ourselves that we can be truly happy.

Below are the steps all couples must take to get married at the Church of the Resurrection. To begin this process, or if you have any questions, please contact Amanda Livermore at (863) 646-3556 etx. 140 or by email.

1. Preliminary Interview: The first step is meeting with the parish priest or Marriage Preparation coordinator to begin the planning and preparation for married life. This should take place at least 4 MONTHS prior to the wedding, and BEFORE any arrangements are made with regard to invitations, reception hall, etc. This will avoid unnecessary duplication of effort or misunderstanding later. During this interview, you will be provided with an explanation of Pastoral Guidelines for Marriage Preparation.
   
   
2. Setting the Date: The final date for the wedding will not be set until the entire assessment process has been completed and the decision to proceed has been made by the priest and the couple.
   
   
3. Assessment - Determining Readiness: The parish has a variety of methods to assist in determining the maturity of the couple and their readiness for marriage. A FOCCUS inventory will be administered and diocesan forms will be completed. In addition, there may be consultation with parents or other relatives as well as pre marriage counseling and evaluations. These steps may result in a decision to delay the marriage. (See # 6)
   
   
4. Instruction: After the readiness for marriage has been determined, the couple will finalize the wedding date and begin their instruction process. We will outline the sacramental preparation required (PreCana Weekend Retreat, Pre Cana, Remarriage, Convalidation, interviews with the priest, etc.).
   
   
5. Wedding Liturgy: The couple will plan their wedding liturgy with the Marriage Preparation Coordinator. They will participate in the decisions regarding the ceremony, scripture, music, vows, etc.
   
   
6. Delaying the Marriage: A delay is designed to provide time to overcome the circumstances which made the delay advisable. Some of the reasons for delaying the marriage are:
   • The non-practice of the faith by the Catholic party, especially when there is no intention of returning to the practice of the faith.
   • A substantial lack of appreciation for the spiritual and sacramental aspects of marriage.
   • A lack of readiness by reason of immaturity, age or undue social pressure.
   • The likelihood of a separation of the couple for an extended period after the marriage (e.g., military service, continued education, etc.).
   • The unwillingness of the couple to participate in any of the steps of marriage preparation that apply to them.
   • Appeal: There is an appeal process for couples who disagree with a decision to delay their marriage. If the couple wishes to appeal, they should submit their petition in writing to the Bishop of Orlando.

These Pastoral Guidelines for Marriage Preparation apply to all Catholics domiciled in the Diocese of Orlando even if their wedding will be celebrated in another diocese.

CONTACT
Lisa Davis
863-646-3556 x140