By which a man and a woman form with each other an intimate communion of life and love. From the beginning of time, Matrimony is the sacrament instituted by God by means of the legitimate union of a man and woman, children are procreated and formed for service to God and the preservation of the human race (cf. Genesis 1:28). By the fruits of his passion, Christ elevated the dignity of the sacrament to serve as a reflection of his relationship with the Church, as St. Paul compares the husband to Christ and the wife to the Church (cf. Ephesians 5:23-25).
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2023 Bishop's Anniversary Blessing Events
October 8 (Ocean/Monmouth Counties)
October 22 (Burlington/Mercer Counties)
Registration is open
All couples celebrating their 1st, 25th or 50th (or more) anniversary of Catholic marriage in 2023 are invited to the Bishop's Anniversary Blessing for Ocean/Monmouth County Parishes on October 8, 2023 at the Co-Cathedral of St. Robert Bellarmine in Freehold, and for Mercer/Burlington County parishes at the Cathedral of St. Mary in Trenton on October 22, 2023. Family and friends are encouraged to attend the Anniversary Mass followed by a happy hour family reception. If you have any questions about registration, please contact Peg Hensler, 609-403-7156; phensler@dioceseoftrenton.org.
MATRIMONY
Steps
1. Schedule a meeting
Contact our parish office to schedule a meeting with our Pastor. This should take place between six to twelve months prior to your anticipated wedding date and before any arrangements are made or a wedding date is set.
During your meeting, will explain to you the marriage preparation process, provide you with the diocesan Marriage Preparation Guidelines & Calendar, and request any necessary documents from you and your fiancé(e).
2. Required Documents
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Certificate of Baptism with all notations for each Catholic Party.
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A Pre-Nuptial Questionnaire (Form A) is to be completed with the Pastor and signed by all parties.
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A Letter of Freedom to Marry (Form B) is to be completed by two witnesses on behalf of each engaged person. Forms are available at the parish.
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A Certificate of Completion from a diocesan-approved marriage preparation program.
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The marriage license must be brought to the office. This is obtained from the County Clerk’s office.
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Scheduling Death Certificate of previous spouse or Annulment Decree, if you were previously married.
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Canonical Dispensations and Permissions, if necessary.
3. "Fully Engaged" Pre-Marital Inventory
After your meeting with the Pastor, you will complete a pre-marital inventory to help identify and work through any issues that need to be addressed with a mentor couple prior to your wedding date. While pre-marital inventories are not predictors of marital success, they can be a helpful tool for growth and preparation.
4. Wedding Date
A wedding date may be noted during the preliminary interview for wedding planning and arrangements, but the final date for the wedding will be set until proper paperwork is received.
5. Wedding Liturgy
You will plan your wedding liturgy with the help of the Pastor or his assistant.
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