A Covenant of Love
In the sacrament of marriage, a man and a woman are joined in sacred, joyful union, a bond blessed by God and strengthened by the grace of the Holy Spirit. Together, they embark on a journey of love, faith, and devotion, weaving their lives into a covenant that reflects the eternal love of Christ.
Our parish walks alongside couples, offering guidance, counseling, and enrichment, nurturing hearts and spirits as they grow together. Marriage is not only a gift from God—it is a path to deepening faith, enduring love, and shared holiness.
Necessity of Preparation
Preparing for a Lifelong Vocation
Just as careers require years of study and preparation, the lifelong vocation of marriage calls for thoughtful preparation. Guided by the Church’s wisdom, couples follow a process tailored to their unique circumstances—whether entering marriage for the first time, remarrying after widowhood, or facing other life situations.
This careful preparation has contributed to the success of countless marriages. Many of our parishioners celebrate milestone anniversaries—25, 50, 60 years, and beyond—bearing witness to enduring love, faithfulness, and commitment. Their example is a blessing to their families, our parish, and the wider community.
Please do not set a date until you speak with the Pastoral Associate.
Engaged Couples
Marriage Blessings
God’s grace is essential for everyone, at every stage of life—and especially for couples preparing to enter the sacred covenant of marriage. Whether young or mature, couples receive guidance and strength through a special blessing that supports their union and future life together.
These marriage blessings are typically celebrated during one of our weekend Masses, inviting the entire parish community to pray and rejoice with the couple. Please contact the office for more information.
Convalidation
Bringing Your Marriage into the Sacramental Life of the Church
Were you married by a justice of the peace or in a non-Catholic denomination? If you wish to enter into full Communion with the Catholic Church, you can have your marriage recognized as a sacramental union, receiving the grace and blessings of the Church.
Our Pastoral Associate can assist you.
Anniversary Blessings
Marriage Anniversary Blessings
After many years of marriage—25, 50, or more—couples may choose to reaffirm the vows they exchanged on their wedding day. A special blessing is offered to commemorate this sacred milestone.
Couples who were married in a Catholic Church through the Sacrament of Marriage are eligible to receive an anniversary blessing. Please have a copy of your marriage certificate to confirm your marriage in the Church.
Contact us for more information or to schedule your blessing during Mass..
Annulment
Marriage, Annulment, and the Path to Healing
Unfortunately, some marriages end in separation or divorce. For those affected, it can be challenging to know how to restore and deepen their faith life. The Catechism of the Catholic Church provides guidance in this area, emphasizing the importance of seeking an annulment for divorced persons, especially if they wish to remarry within the Church.
An annulment is not a “church divorce” and does not affect civil legal decisions. Rather, it is a recognition that, from the beginning, certain circumstances may have prevented a fully covenantal and sacramental marriage. The process offers healing from past hurts and allows individuals to freely pursue their faith and the Sacraments.
Divorced and remarried individuals who have not yet received an annulment are encouraged to begin the process as soon as possible in order to participate fully in the sacramental life of the Church.
St. John’s has a regional office of the Tribunal specifically for annulments. It is located in the hall with a certified advocate, appointed through the Bishop who is available to answer questions and assist with the process.