Weddings
The Sacrament of Marriage is the only Sacrament in which the ordained minister is primarily a witness. It is the couple themselves who minister the Sacrament to each other.
The marriage of two Christians (not necessarily both Catholic) represents the marriage between Christ and the Church. The “bride and groom” image is strong in scripture as a description of the relationship between God and the People of God.
Because of the life-long commitment presupposed by Christian marriage, emphasis is placed on preparation. Anyone intending to marry in the Catholic tradition should approach a priest at least six months before the wedding date. Most parishes link into a diocesan preparation programme, the details available from parish or diocesan offices.
For Catholics, the lead up to marriage can be a valuable time for renewing faith, by deepening their understanding of what it means to be Catholic in the context of their partnership.
The Marriage Ministries office of the Catholic Archdiocese of Wellington, of which the Cathedral is part, supports engaged couples as they prepare for the Sacrament of Marriage. They have prepared a booklet with guidelines and information to help you as you begin your Wedding preparation which can be downloaded here.
Weddings at the Cathedral
If you would like to enquire about holding your wedding at the Cathedral please contact the Parish Office cathedral.parish@wn.catholic.org.nz 04 496 1700 for further details.
Archdiocesan Regulations for Wellington state that:
- A Diocesan pre-marriage course must be arranged.
- Normally three months notice of marriage must be given to the Parish Priest.
- Pre Nuptial Enquiry Papers must be filled in as soon as possible – this also includes providing documentary evidence that you have received the Sacraments of Baptism & Confirmation.
- You must give the priest the Civil marriage licence well before the wedding.
