About
“The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life, is by its nature ordered toward the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring; this covenant between baptized persons has been raised by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a sacrament.”
FAQ
Where and when can we get married?
Couples may get married in any of the seven churches that make up Blessed Michael McGivney Parish. Please contact the church office at the church you are interested in being married at for more information and to reserve a date, using the “Contact Us” button above.
Sunday weddings are not generally permitted in the Archdiocese of Hartford.
How do we prepare for Matrimony?
The Archdiocese of Hartford requires that marriage preparation begin at least six months prior to the celebration of the sacrament. If you have not already done so, the most important thing you can do is to begin praying and attending church together as a couple, asking God to bless and help you as you prepare for marriage. Your priest will guide you through the program of marriage preparation at your first meeting.
Who can attend the Nuptial Mass?
All are welcome in the House of God. If it is a Nuptial Mass where Holy Communion is to be distributed, only Catholics in good standing and who are properly prepared are able to receive Communion.
Can we be married in the Church without a Mass?
Yes, the Rite of Marriage may be celebrated within a Liturgy of the Word. The Rite of Marriage provides for both a Nuptial Mass, as well as a wedding ceremony outside of Mass. Generally, a marriage between a Catholic person and a non-Catholic person should be celebrated outside of Mass.
However, the Eucharist is the primary sacrament. All other sacraments, including Marriage, find their source and meaning in the Eucharist. In this primary sacrament, it is the total self-donation of Jesus that nourishes and gives life to the Church.
By virtue of their Baptism, the couple already shares in Christ’s marriage covenant with the Church. It is fitting, therefore, that the marriage celebration of a Catholic man and a Catholic woman be performed within a Nuptial Mass.
What about music?
Our directors of music at each of our churches can help you select appropriate songs and hymns for your wedding.
What kind of music can we have at the wedding?
Only sacred music is acceptable for Catholic weddings because the role of music in the liturgy is to support the prayer of the community by lifting our minds and hearts to God. Music of a secular nature and origin that is important to the couple should be played at the reception or some other such opportunity. The music directors you work with will assist you in choosing appropriate music for the wedding.
Is parking available?
We have a variety of parking options at each of our churches. Please see our Visit Us page, and inquire with the church office at the church you are being married at for more information.
What does it cost to get married?
Please contact the church office at the church you are being married at to inquire about the offering for a wedding, using the “Contact Us” button above.
How long is the aisle?
The aisle at St. Mary Church is 72 feet from the last pew to the first step of the altar. It is 94 feet from the Vestibule door to the first step of the altar.
The aisle at St. Joseph Church is 60 feet from the last pew to the first step of the altar.
If getting married at any of our other churches, please inquire with the church office about aisle length using the “Contact Us” button above.