Catholic Wedding Guide

Requirements, preparation, and planning your Catholic wedding ceremony

A Catholic wedding is more than a beautiful ceremony — it's a sacrament. The Sacrament of Matrimony is a sacred covenant between a man and a woman, witnessed by God and the Church, in which the couple pledges their love and fidelity for life. Whether you're both Catholic, in a mixed-faith relationship, or just beginning to explore a Catholic wedding, this guide covers everything from requirements and Pre-Cana to what happens during the ceremony.

Requirements for a Catholic Wedding

• At least one spouse must be Catholic and should be registered at a parish. The Catholic spouse must be baptized and confirmed (if not confirmed, this can often be completed before the wedding).
• Freedom to marry: Both parties must be free to marry — meaning no prior valid marriages exist. If either party was previously married, an annulment (declaration of nullity) from the Catholic Church is required before a new marriage can take place.
• Marriage preparation (Pre-Cana): All couples must complete a marriage preparation program. This is non-negotiable and is one of the most valuable parts of the process.
• Meet with the priest or deacon: You'll have several meetings with the officiant to discuss your relationship, faith, and plans for married life.
• 6-12 months advance notice: Contact your parish as soon as you get engaged. Most parishes require at least 6 months to complete all preparation.

What Is Pre-Cana?

Pre-Cana (named after the Wedding at Cana, where Jesus performed His first miracle by turning water into wine) is the Catholic Church's marriage preparation program. It's designed to help couples build a strong foundation for their marriage by discussing important topics before the wedding.

Formats vary by diocese and parish, but common options include:

• Weekend retreat: A Friday evening through Sunday program at a retreat center with other engaged couples. Often includes talks by married couples, small group discussions, and couple exercises.
• Evening sessions: A series of 4-6 evening meetings at the parish, spread over several weeks.
• Mentor couple program: One-on-one meetings with an experienced married couple from the parish.
• Online programs: Some dioceses now offer virtual Pre-Cana options.

Topics typically covered include:

• Communication and conflict resolution
• Finances and budgeting as a couple
• The theology of Catholic marriage
• Natural Family Planning (NFP)
• Roles and expectations in marriage
• Faith and spirituality as a couple
• Extended family relationships

Mixed Marriages

The Catholic Church does permit marriages between a Catholic and a non-Catholic, though additional steps are required:

In both cases, the wedding can take place in a Catholic church. When both spouses are Catholic, the wedding typically takes place within a full Mass (Nuptial Mass). For mixed marriages, a ceremony without Mass is more common, as non-Catholic guests may feel excluded from Communion.

The Wedding Ceremony

There are two options for a Catholic wedding ceremony:

Choosing Readings and Music

Couples choose their own Scripture readings from an approved list provided by the Church. Typically you'll select an Old Testament reading, a Responsorial Psalm, a New Testament reading, and a Gospel reading. Your priest will guide you through the options.

Music should be sacred and liturgically appropriate. Popular choices include "Ave Maria," "Panis Angelicus," and traditional hymns. Secular love songs (like pop music) are generally not permitted during the ceremony itself but can be played at the reception.

Planning Timeline

Cost of a Catholic Wedding

The sacrament of marriage itself is free. However, there are customary costs associated with using the church:

• Church donation/stipend: $200-$500+ (varies by parish; this covers the use of the church, utilities, setup)
• Priest/deacon stipend: $100-$300 (a customary thank-you, not a fee)
• Musicians: $150-$500+ (organist, cantor, or other musicians)
• Pre-Cana: $50-$200 (covers materials and retreat costs)
• Marriage license: Varies by state ($20-$100)

Many parishes work with couples on a sliding scale if cost is a concern. Never let finances prevent you from receiving the sacrament — talk to your priest.

Frequently Asked Questions