Preparing for a Lifetime Together in Christ

Guidelines for Weddings

Marriage Preparation

• The Sacrament of Crowning (Marriage) is a sacred covenant and an important step in the life of the Christian faithful. To ensure proper spiritual, pastoral, and canonical preparation, Church law requires that engaged couples receive instruction in Christian marriage and participate in a premarital interview with the parish priest. 
• The bride and groom must schedule an appointment with the parish priest at least six (6) months prior to the proposed wedding date. This preparation process includes the completion of all required documentation, discussion of the couple’s intentions regarding marriage, and participation in any required marriage preparation programs. 

Requirements for Marriage in the Church

• A marriage may not be celebrated in the Church under the following circumstances: 
• Unless both parties have received Baptism and Chrismation (Confirmation). 
• If either party has been previously married and the former spouse is still living, unless the appropriate ecclesiastical authorization or dispensation has been granted by the competent Church authority. 
• If either party intends to participate in a second religious marriage ceremony in another church, denomination, or location. 
• During Lent or Holy Week, when weddings are not permitted according to the liturgical discipline of the Maronite Church. 

Celebrating Marriage with Another Priest

• The parish priest is responsible for all marriages celebrated within the parish. If the couple wishes to invite another priest to officiate or concelebrate, prior consultation and approval from the parish priest are required. No arrangements should be made without first obtaining this permission. 

Wedding Rehearsal

• A wedding rehearsal is required and must be scheduled in consultation with the parish priest. Since the wedding ceremony is a sacred liturgical celebration, the parish priest or his delegate will direct the rehearsal. All members of the wedding party are expected to arrive on time and conduct themselves with dignity and reverence. 
• The church is the House of God, and respectful behavior is expected at all times, including during rehearsals. 

Civil Marriage License

• A valid civil marriage license must be obtained before the wedding can take place. In the State of Illinois, the marriage license must be issued by the county in which the wedding will be celebrated. For example, weddings celebrated in DuPage County require a marriage license issued by DuPage County, while weddings celebrated in Cook County require a marriage license issued by Cook County. The marriage license becomes valid one day after it is issued and remains valid for sixty (60) days. Couples should plan accordingly when obtaining their license. The marriage license must be presented to the parish office before the wedding rehearsal or as otherwise directed by the parish priest.

Additional Information

• To preserve the sacred character of the celebration, all arrangements regarding music, photography, videography, decorations, and other wedding details should be discussed with the parish priest well in advance of the wedding date. 
• Couples are encouraged to approach their wedding day not only as a joyful celebration, but also as a profound encounter with God's grace through the Sacrament of Marriage.