Marriage

Holy Matrimony is a one of the seven sacraments of the Church and is the basis for a Christian marriage. In it, a man and a woman enter into a life-long union, making vows before God and the Church. In it, they receive the grace and the blessing of God to help them fulfill their vows.  Whether this sacramental rite is performed early or late in life, it is a sacred, joyous occasion both for your family and the Good Shepherd community.

The marriage ceremony is actually a public event, open to all members of the parish.  In fact, the service itself includes a vow asking the congregation, “Will all of you witnessing these promises do all in your power to uphold these two persons in their marriage?” To which they respond, “We will”.  With that in mind, marriage at the Church of the Good Shepherd is intended for those connected to our parish: committed members, those who intend to make the Church of the Good Shepherd their church home, or those who through history or family have a strong connection to our parish.

At the Church of the Good Shepherd, part of the preparation for Holy Matrimony is to meet with one of our Clergy and participate in Marriage Counseling.  For more information on the process of planning a wedding at the Church of the Good Shepherd, please call the Church Office at 361-882-1735.