Search
-
-
HOLY MATRIMONYA Sacred CovenantHoly Matrimony is one of the seven sacraments in the Catholic Church, instituted by God and elevated by Christ to a sacred bond. It’s a covenant of love between a man and a woman, meant to reflect God's eternal love for His Church (Ephesians 5:25).
Purpose of Matrimony- The good of the spouses: Marriage is a calling to holiness and mutual support (Genesis 2:24).
- Procreation and education of children: The family becomes the domestic church, nurturing faith and life (Psalm 127:3-5).
- Fidelity and indissolubility: Marriage is a lifelong, faithful commitment, mirroring Christ’s unbreakable bond with His Church (Mark 10:9).
Grace in Matrimony
Through the sacrament, spouses receive God’s grace, which strengthens their love, helps them grow in holiness, and empowers them to overcome challenges together (Ephesians 5:31-32). This grace transforms their relationship, making it a powerful witness to the world of divine love.
A Visible Sign of God's Love
Matrimony is not just a human contract, but a divine vocation that calls couples to live out their love in a way that reflects God's love and brings them closer to Him and each other (1 John 4:19).
-
-
-
MARRIAGE FORMATION AT SAN RAFAELCongratulations on your engagement!We’re so glad that you’ve chosen to marry in the Catholic Church. We are privileged to accompany you on the Journey of Your Love, and honored that you have entrusted us with equipping you to traverse both the joys and the inevitable challenges that married life brings. Our great joy, above all, is to assist you in encountering Christ’s love and its power to nourish and transform relationships.
May the Holy Spirit guide and direct you on this journey of love for each other, for your families, and for your extended family of faith, the Church. May this process of marriage preparation be one of enrichment, formation, and growth in faith, hope, and love. As soon as you are ready to begin preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage, and before setting a date, call your parish to schedule a meeting with your marriage formation minister (typically your priest or deacon) [1], who may also serve as the celebrant for your wedding. [2]
Fr. Jay Bananal
Pastor of San Rafael
-
-
-
STEPS TO COMPLETE MARRIAGE FORMATIONThis process ensures that every couple is spiritually and practically prepared.To celebrate the sacrament of Holy Matrimony at San Rafael Parish, the bride, groom, or their parents must be registered parishioners for at least one year before the first meeting with the Priest or Deacon.
- Contact the Parish Office: Call (858) 487-4314 at least nine months in advance to schedule your first appointment with the Pastor. During this meeting, you will discuss a potential wedding date and time.
Preparation Meetings: You will attend several instructional meetings with the Priest for formation and to plan the details of the ceremony.
Marriage Formation Process (Documents & Requirements)
We are here to support and guide you through each step of your marriage preparation. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out.
We look forward to accompanying you on this special journey as you prepare to celebrate the sacrament of marriage!
-
Contact Us
-
Parish Officeofficesanrafaelparish.org
-
-
