Preparing for Marriage
While you need only give three months’ notice of your intention to marry, it is common practice for a couple to book the church a long time in advance. So it is important to contact the Parish Office to make sure that the church is available on the day you require.
You will also need to participate in a marriage preparation course, which is a lovely way for you as a couple to reflect on your relationship. The priest will begin your pre-nuptial enquiry and advise you about the documents you need.
Meetings with the Priest
Contact the Parish Office of the bride at least three months before the date on which you plan to marry to book your wedding and arrange to meet the priest. These meetings are a key part of the preparation process and a chance to reflect on what Christian marriage asks of you as a couple.
During these meetings the priest will complete the Pre-Nuptial Enquiry Forms and explain the need for recent Baptism and Confirmation certificates, and any additional paperwork if you have lived elsewhere since you were sixteen.
Pre-Marriage Courses
All couples intending to marry are expected to participate in a marriage preparation course. Courses are prepared and presented by married couples and offer valuable time to reflect on your relationship and the commitment you are making.
For information about pre-marriage courses in the Drumbo and Carryduff area, contact Passionist Retreat Centre, Crossgar, or book online via Accord.
State Requirements for Marriage
In addition to Church preparation, there are important civil requirements which must be fulfilled. The Marriage (Northern Ireland) Order 2003 changed how church weddings are registered.
Northern Ireland – Marriage Schedule +
Couples must give notice to the local registrar of their intention to marry. Notice may be given up to a year in advance, but should be at least 8–10 weeks before the wedding date, and not later than 30 days before.
Each party completes a Marriage Notice Application Form and has it signed by the celebrant. Once the registrar is satisfied that you are free to marry, a Marriage Schedule is issued. Without this Schedule, the wedding cannot take place.
After the ceremony, the Marriage Schedule is signed by the couple, witnesses and celebrant and must be returned to the Registrar within three days.
Other Circumstances +
Couples marrying in the Republic of Ireland or abroad, or where either party is a foreign national or subject to immigration control, should contact the parish early to ensure that both Church and civil documents are in order.
Special permissions are required for mixed marriages (between a Catholic and a baptised Christian of another tradition, or an unbaptised person). The diocesan office will advise on these cases.
Questions?
If you have any further queries regarding your Church ceremony, please contact the Parish Office. The parish team will be happy to guide you through each step.
