Weddings are special and joyful times for brides and grooms, for their families and friends, and for the parish community. The church welcomes its members to celebrate and solemnize their weddings in the context of our prayers as Christians. Indeed, so important is marriage in Christian life that it is called a sacrament — a visible sign of Christ’s love.

To be married in the Catholic Church means far more than having the wedding ceremony in a church building. Married life is seen in the context of the faith community. To be married in the Church means that two individuals are joined together in a lasting covenant of love, living their dependence upon God’s grace all their lives.

The many pressures facing marriage and family today require the Christian Community to help our engaged couples prepare for and sustain a life together, a life that is sacramental in character and attitude. During the months before your wedding, the community of the Catholic Parishes of Saint Irene and Holy Family will pray for the deepening and strengthening of your love relationship and for your continual spiritual growth.