Marriage Preparation

On behalf of the parish family of St. Raphael Parish, congratulations on your engagement!

These are days that you will never forget. We are happy to share them with you as you prepare to celebrate your love for each other and Jesus Christ in the Sacrament of Marriage.

Through your Baptism, you entered into a loving relationship with God and God’s Church. By choosing to celebrate your wedding at St. Raphael Parish, it is evident that you want God to remain a part of your life as you make a new, loving commitment to one another through your marriage. The decision to join with one another in a lifelong, faithful relationship is, by its very nature, creative. It is a pleasure to share this event with you.

The faith community of St. Raphael Parish is committed to making your wedding day memorable and prayerful for all. As with other sacraments, preparation for the Sacrament of Marriage is not a luxury or an option, but a serious responsibility. Not only will you grow, but those who assist you will experience a renewal of love and commitment. To help facilitate the planning of this joyous event, we have prepared guidelines, which which you will receive when you meet with the priest.

More importantly, we want you to know that the prayers and support of the parishioners and staff of St. Raphael Parish will be with you in the busy days of preparations for your wedding day and in the many happy days and years of married life that will follow. The Prayer for Engaged Couples below is our prayer to you. We hope you and your family will pray it, too.

Prayer for Engaged Couples

  • Loving God,
    You have so exalted the unbreakable bond of marriage
    that it became the sacramental sign
    of your Son’s union with the Church, His spouse.

    Help us who are preparing to marry in Christ.
    Grant us pure love and a spirit of generous prayer.
    Bless our marriage and our family,
    and lead us always in your peace and love.

    We pray that in good times and in bad,
    we will grow in love for each other.
    In our struggles let them rejoice
    that you are near to help us.
    In our needs, let us know
    that you are there to rescue us.
    In our joys, let us see
    that you are the source and completion of every happiness.

    We ask this through Christ our Lord.
    Amen.

St Raphael Cana Window photo by jsGrafx, © 2013 Jeff Signorini

For more information about scheduling a wedding contact Hanna Rutila at the parish office at 727-821-7989 EXT. 2119 or email hrutila@st-raphaels.com

You can make a payment for your wedding using Quick Give for Online Giving.