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Matrimony

“The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life, is by its nature ordered toward the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring; this covenant between baptized persons has been raised by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a sacrament.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1601)

Preparation For Marriage  

Married couples, in virtue of their Sacrament of Matrimony, express and share in the mystery of marital love that exists between Christ and the Church.  Through your preparation and entering into this holy vocation as married persons you are a symbol of unconditional love and intimate communion between Jesus, (the Groom) and the Church (His bride).

To witness the love of a man and woman made holy in the Sacrament of Matrimony is to see concretely the love between Christ and His Church.  Marriage fills us with great joy and gratitude.  That is why we take the preparation and celebration of this sacrament seriously.

As you consider the possibility of celebrating your wedding at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, you will want to consider these guidelines.  If you have any questions, you are welcome to call us at (304) 623-2334.

Faithfully in Christ, The Priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help.

Helpful Links:

Catholic Rite of Marriage


Engaged couples planning to be married at Our Lady of Perpetual Help should make contact with the priest at least SIX MONTHS in advance.  To ensure a particular date, at least a year in advance of their preferred date is advised. Definite plans for this date should not be made until such contact has been made.  Marriages are celebrated on Friday evenings and at 11:30 am and/or 2:00 pm on Saturday.

Couples planning to get married must contact the parish office at least 6 months in advance.  You will need to meet with Father Kent and/or Deacon John prior to taking Pre-Cana or the Weekend for Engaged Couples. Please contact the Parish Office for an appointment. Pre-Cana or Weekend training can be scheduled with the Diocese at WVMarriage.org.

Annulments

Often individuals are not fully participating in the life of the church because of divorce and remarriage.  Others, civilly divorced, have questions regarding the previous marriage. The parish priest would happily meet with you to discuss the status and possibilities of these particular situations.

Forms

Link to the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston website.

St. Paul said: "Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the Church. . . . This is a great mystery, and I mean in reference to Christ and the Church." --Ephesians 5:25, 32