Matrimony

"From a valid marriage arises a bond between the spouses which by its very nature is perpetual and exclusive; furthermore, in a Christian marriage the spouses are strengthened and, as it were, consecrated for the duties and the dignity of their state by a special sacrament."

Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1638

Matrimony is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church – a sacred covenant by which a man and a woman freely give themselves to each other in lifelong, faithful love. In this union, they become a visible sign of Christ’s love for His Church. Through their vows, their daily life together, and their openness to family, the couple lives out the vocation of marriage as a call to holiness.

Marriage is not just a personal commitment – it is a spiritual one, rooted in grace and blessed by the Church. This sacrament gives couples the strength to live out their vows with love, forgiveness, and fidelity throughout life’s joys and challenges.

Matrimony at St. Joseph Parish

At St. Joseph Parish, we are honored to walk with couples as they prepare for the sacred vocation of marriage. Our goal is to support you not only in planning your wedding day, but in building a strong spiritual foundation for a lifetime together.

We ask you to contact us at least six months in advance of your desired wedding date. Marriage preparation includes meeting with our priest and participating in an Engaged Couples Conference to help you grow together in faith and love.

To begin the process or ask any wedding-related questions, please call the parish office at 419-447-5848.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Please contact the parish at least six months before your desired wedding date. This allows time for spiritual preparation and scheduling.

  • While priority is given to parishioners, we welcome inquiries from couples with a family connection to the parish or who wish to begin their faith journey with us.

  • Couples meet with a priest and attend an Engaged Couples Conference. Preparation covers communication, faith, family life, and the sacramental nature of marriage.

  • Yes — visiting clergy are welcome with approval from the pastor. Please let us know early in the planning process.

  • A Catholic wedding can be celebrated within a Mass or without. The priest will help you discern the best format based on your circumstances and faith background.

  • Typically, a recent copy of your baptismal certificate, a completed premarital form, and participation in preparation programs. Specifics will be discussed during your meeting with the priest.