Matrimony

Scheduling a Wedding

Congratulations on your engagement! We are honored to play a role in the beginning of your married life. Marriage is the way God will make you a saint!

Due to the large number of weddings requested at St. Mary’s, only parishioners (either bride or groom) in good standing, or those whose parents are parishioners in good standing, may reserve the church for a wedding. You must contact a parish priest at least six months before the possible wedding date due to the preparation required for sacramental marriages. It is strongly recommended that you book the church prior to booking a reception venue. Couples who are living together will be asked to live separately during the marriage preparation time.

The priests of the parish prepare all couples and officiate at weddings. Roman Catholic priests or deacons who are relatives or close personal friends are welcome to officiate at weddings if they are in good standing with their bishop or religious superior and have the religious and civil authority to officiate at marriages for the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Marriage Preparation

1. St. Mary’s requires six months of marriage preparation, beginning with your initial contact with your parish priest.
2. Each couple marrying in the Diocese of Arlington is required to attend a marriage preparation conference such as a Conference for the Engaged.
3. Most couples will be asked to take the FOCCUS premarital inventory. It is a tool designed to help engaged couples learn more about themselves and their relationship.
   
4. St. Mary’s require couples to attend Natural Family Planning (NFP) classes. This method of family planning respects the integrity of your marriage and the dignity of the spouses.
5. The preparing priest or deacon can assist you in preparing the liturgy, readings, music, and other elements for your wedding.

Planning the Wedding

For helpful resources related to planning your wedding Mass at the Basilica of Saint Mary, including required paperwork, please follow the button link below.

Convalidation

Are you and your spouse already civilly married? If so, click for more information about how to have your marriage blessed in the Church.