Marriage is an important part of one’s life and growth as a follower of Christ. Preparing to celebrate the Sacrament of Marriage begins with an interview with the parish priest. This meeting explores the couple’s faith experience, their relationship as a couple and the understanding of marriage within the Catholic Church.
For couples seeking to be married at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, the following information will be helpful:
Must one of us be a parishioner to marry here?
Generally, yes. The marriage of two Catholics is a Sacrament that takes places in the parish of either the bride or the groom. To be married in another parish requires a compelling reason.
What documents are required?
For Catholics:
Annotated baptism certificate. This is not the original certificate but, rather, one that has been issued within the last six months and indicates the other sacraments received on the overleaf. It is issued by the parish where the Baptism took place.
For Other Christians:
Copy of original baptism certificate.
BC Marriage License. This is required by the province. Visit their website for details:www.vs.gov.bc.ca
Must we attend the Marriage Preparation Program?
Yes. Completion of the program is required to be married in the Archdiocese of Vancouver. Up-to-date schedule and application forms are downloadable from the Vancouver Archdiocese website at www.rcav.org (click on Diocesan Offices, then Office of Life, Marriage and Family). The course is seven weeks in duration and must be completed at least a month before the wedding date. You can register online for the program.
What is the first step?
Contact the parish wedding coordinator at least six months ahead of your anticipated date. Once the marriage preparation course and the paper work are completed, the priest officiating at the wedding will help you plan a meaningful liturgy.
If you would like to speak to the pastor, please contact Fr. Leo English at the parish office.
