SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION
The preparation process for the sacraments of Baptism, Reconciliation, Eucharist, Confirmation and Matrimony includes the participation of the individual, the family, and the parish community. The family and parish community, working together provide the foundations, experiences, and celebrations in which Jesus’ presence can be experienced and understood. All persons seeking sacramental preparation must be registered members of Saint Augustine’s Parish.
Matrimony
Parish members* contemplating marriage, are required to begin the sacramental preparation process for Matrimony at least six months in advance of the anticipated wedding date. This process takes about six months. It includes a pre-nuptial investigation with the pastor or deacon; taking the FOCCUS, a pre-marriage inventory of interests, values, and attitudes; attending a Diocesan Marriage Workshop; meeting with a parish Mentor couple to discuss FOCCUS results; liturgy planning; and meeting with the parish musician. The Church requires that all sacramental preparation be completed at least 30 days prior to the anticipated wedding date.
The foundation of the marital covenant is found in God, our Creator. It is presumed that couples seeking sacramental preparation for Matrimony desire to create a marital covenant inviting God into the union. God is the third party in any Christian marriage and with this presence comes grace. Sacramental preparation focuses on exactly what the holy covenant means within several contexts: to the individual within the relationship, to the couple, and to the couple who are a symbol to the faith community. Creating a marital covenant invites God, and so the Christian lifestyle, into the union of two people.
*At least one individual of the engaged couple needs to be a member of the parish. Regular attendance at Liturgy is strongly encouraged.
Please call the parish office, 251-8335, to make arrangements for parish membership, if necessary, to arrange to reserve the church for the wedding and to meet for sacramental preparation.
Volunteer Opportunities
Mentor Couple for Engaged
Married couples welcome engaged couples into their home to offer hospitality, supportiveness, and sacramental preparation assistance by facilitating the couple's FOCCUS dialogue process.
Participate in annual ministry support/ enrichment gatherings sponsored by Diocese' Family Life office.
Active faith life necessary. Training and resources provided.
Wedding Coordinator
Represents the parish and assists couples by conducting a rehearsal and being present on the day of the wedding. Insures that guidelines and traditions of the parish are followed. Responsible for communicating use and care of the facility.
