Marriage

Couples intending to marry in this parish are required to:

  * Give at least six months notice;

  * Confirm date and time;

  * Complete pre-marriage enquiry forms with the celebrating priest;

  * Arrange for Civil Marriage Licence and Schedule to be issued by the local Registrar at least

  eight weeks prior to the wedding;

  * Provide Certificates of Baptism and Freedom to marry in the Catholic Church;

  * Attend a pre-marriage preparation course.

The pre-marriage course comes in two parts. The couple is invited to a day organised by the Archdiocese, and run at various centres across the city and beyond each month, to help reflect on the Catholic understanding of marriage. A second date, often in late April or early May, is then offered to couples marrying here. The first of these reflects on:

  * the Catholic understanding of Marriage in the light of the Theology of the Body proposed by

  Pope John Paul II;

  * the Scriptural vision of Marriage, with a particular look at the readings suggested for the

  wedding ceremony.

  * fertility and aspects of health and sexuality in marriage.

The second day offers:

   * reflection on the Catholic understanding of Marriage as a Sacrament;

  * a chance to look a the Rite of Marriage itself;

  * an opportunity for couples to reflect (privately) on their own relationship;

  * reflection on marriage as lived, and the issues it raises for each person;

  * Help in completing appropriate marriage documentation;

  * General help about flowers, photographers, ushers, witnesses, etc.

In addition, couples are invited to take part in the FOCCUS programme which helps them to look at their own relationship in a supportive and helpful way. This is factilitated by Scottish Marriage Care and organised directly with each couple.

A few reminders for planning:

Always book your date and time with the Church before organising a venue for the Reception.

A wedding is a very special and sacred event and the ceremony should reflect this. Sacred rather than secular music is the rule.

The couple should arrange for an organist and cantor. In all cases the couple should consult with the parish director of music who is available after the 12 noon Mass every Sunday.

Marriages can take place on any day except Sunday and days in Holy Week.

Photographers are welcome but should remain discreet at all times during the service.