Our Marriage Preparation Ministry

Preparing Couples for the Freedom to Enter into a Sacramental Union

Those of us who are or have been married know that marriage can be a rollercoaster. Joy, heartache, love and sorrow can all come to us throughout life.

With this in mind, the Catholic Church has guidelines for couples to properly prepare for the Sacrament of Matrimony.

“A sacramental marriage allows a bride and groom to say to each other, ‘I promise to be for you in the way that Christ is for us,’” says Fr. Jim Golka.

Because the Cathedral schedule fills up quickly, it is recommended that engaged couples contact Fr. Jim or Fr. Joseph Thambi one year before their proposed date. Last year, 50 weddings were held.

The marriage preparation process begins when the couple meets with one of our priests. Here, they learn about the sacrament and take an online inventory on a variety of topics. Couples then go through the results with one of our parish’s Leader Couples. Furthermore, they meet with the priest and Music Minister to plan the liturgy.

“In this process, the couple gains more freedom to enter into a sacramental union,” Fr. Jim says. “We also hope this experience deepens their relationship with God.”

Fr. Jim says studies show that couples who engage in marriage preparation and attend a regular worship service tend to report happier marriages.

To be married in the Catholic Church, at least one of the two must be a baptized Catholic. To begin the preparation process, couples should contact Fr. Jim Golka at 308-384-2523, ext. 201 or frjim@stmarysgi.com; or Fr. Joseph Thambi at 308-384-2523, ext. 204 or associatepastor@ stmarysgi.com. Couples should call the Cathedral before securing a venue date.