Matrimony

The Sacrament of Matrimony reveals God’s plan for humanity: a covenant of love and communion. As Pope Francis teaches, the union of man and woman is not merely a human agreement—it reflects divine love itself. “The two shall become one flesh” (Gen 1:27; 2:24).

In Matrimony, husband and wife are called to mirror God’s faithful, life-giving love. Through this sacrament, God impresses upon the couple the qualities of His own love: unity, fidelity, and permanence. Their covenant is a sacred sign, a living witness of God’s love in the world.

Matrimony is a path to holiness, where the daily, mutual gift of self allows spouses to grow in grace and show God’s love to others.

Who is Welcome to Celebrate their Marriage in our Church

At least one person must be a baptized Catholic in order to celebrate the Sacrament of Marriage in the Catholic Church. At St. Gerard, weddings are normally celebrated for registered parishioners or those with a family connection to our parish. Because sacraments are meant to be celebrated within one’s worshipping community, we generally expect couples to be practising their faith here.

However, every situation is unique. If you belong to another parish, but hope to be married at St. Gerard, we are happy to speak with you and guide you through the process. In these cases, we ask for a letter of delegation from your home parish priest, as he ordinarily holds sacramental jurisdiction for his parishioners.

When Should We Reach Out to the Parish?

Couples should contact the parish at least nine months before their preferred wedding date. This provides enough time for the required preparation, paperwork and scheduling, and helps ensure a smooth and meaningful planning process.

To get started, please reach out to the parish office to book an appointment with our pastor. He will discuss your plans with you, answer your questions and guide you through the steps that follow.

When Do We Set a Date for our Wedding?

Your wedding date will be confirmed at your initial meeting with our pastor. Please reach out to the parish before finalizing a date or making other plans—such as reserving a reception venue—to ensure availability and proper coordination.

What is Involved in the Marriage Preparation Process?

Marriage preparation in the Archdiocese of St. Boniface is a two-part process designed to help couples prepare both spiritually and practically for the Sacrament of Matrimony.

Couples begin by meeting with our pastor. This initial conversation is essential and should take place before making any formal wedding plans. After this meeting, couples will be guided to register for both Part 1 and Part 2 of the Marriage Formation Process.

Part 1 – Sacramental Marriage Formation Sessions
At St. Gerard Parish, we offer the For Better & For Ever program, led in partnership with a sponsor couple from our parish. This mentorship-based process includes:

5–6 sessions before the wedding
1–2 follow-up sessions after the wedding

The program encourages meaningful conversation, spiritual reflection and personal connection in a supportive, faith-filled environment. The fee is $75 per couple.

Alternatively, couples may attend an Archdiocesan Sacramental Marriage Formation Weekend, a retreat-style experience, at a cost of $175 per couple.

Part 2 – Fertility Health Awareness Seminar
All engaged couples are also required to attend a free 3-hour Fertility Health Awareness Seminar, offered by the Archdiocese each spring and fall. The seminar introduces Natural Family Planning (NFP) and Fertility Awareness methods, with certified instruction in one approved method.

Beyond education, this seminar helps couples grow in understanding of the Church’s teachings on human sexuality, love, and family life, while learning alongside others preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage.

Can We Personalize our Wedding Ceremony?

Absolutely! While the ceremony follows the structure of the Catholic liturgy, you will have meaningful opportunities to choose readings, music, and special prayers that reflect your faith and personal story. Our pastor will guide you through these selections during your preparation, helping you create a beautiful and prayerful celebration.

Can We Be Married Within A Mass?

You may celebrate your wedding within a full Mass—which is recommended if both of you are Catholic—or as a ceremony without Mass. Our pastor will help you determine which option is best suited to your situation.

What Costs are Involved?

In accordance with Archdiocesan policy, the cost for weddings at our church is $300. Those who are unable to pay the full amount are not expected to do so. This offering includes the priest’s fee.

If you request parish musicians for your wedding, you may also give them a voluntary offering as a gesture of appreciation.

Additional fees apply for the marriage preparation program you select.

For any questions regarding fees or payments, please contact the parish office.