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.
The time for formal preparation for the Sacrament of Marriage established by the Diocese of Birmingham is six (6) months; however, couples are encouraged to begin their formal marriage preparation nine months prior to the celebration.
The person must be registered in the parish for at least three (3) months prior to the initial meeting.
