The Sacrament of Marriage celebrates and witnesses the covenant of love between two people and symbolizes Christ's covenant of love for the Church in that union. Since marriage is such a sacred vocation, it is important that couples be properly prepared to enter this sacrament.

Marriage preparation and scheduling for the Sacrament of Marriage ordinarily begins by contacting the priest one year before the proposed wedding date. 

Couples are encouraged to book the date with the Church before reserving a reception hall.

During this year, the couple will prepare for their wedding by meeting with the wedding celebrant and must attend Pre-Cana. These are the minimum requirements set by the Common Policy on Marriage by the Bishops of New Jersey.

The Pre-Cana Program encourages engaged couples to spend time together away from the hustle and bustle of wedding plans and work. Pre-Cana allows each couple to grow closer through communication in areas that will be of great importance in marriage. Many couples reaffirm their love and learn more about each other's hopes, dreams, and concerns as the wedding day grows closer. You may attend PreCana at whichever church you choose or attend St. Paul's Inside the Walls in Madison. For a list of dates, visit their website at: www.insidethewalls.org.