Procedure for Planning a Wedding at Divine Mercy of Our Lord Catholic Church

 

1.       It is preferred but not required that the Bride or Groom be a registered and contributing member of the parish.

2.       Those contemplating marriage in this church need to contact the priest at least six months before the proposed date of the wedding, to book it in the Church calendar.

3.       Documents needed:

a)      Baptismal Certificate of the bride and groom issued within 6 months from the churches of each baptized party.

b)      Confirmation Certificate of the bride and groom issued within 6 months from the churches of each confirmation celebration.

c)       Certificate of Attendance in Marriage Preparation Classes (through parish Sponsor Couple or Engaged Encounter or Diocesan Office).

d)      Affidavit of Freedom for both bride and groom from reliable witnesses (usually a parent).

e)      Civil Marriage License from the Dallas County Records Building, 500 Main Street, room 301 (obtain no sooner than 10 days but no later than 72 hours before the wedding date). Call 214-653-7559 for more information. If already married civilly, please provide a copy of your original license.

4.       When the marriage preparation classes have been completed and all the certificates and paperwork turned in to the Church Office, the couple must meet the priest at least 1 month before the proposed date of the wedding to plan the ceremony and rehearsal date.

5.       For anyone having problems with a previous marriage, no wedding plans may be discussed until the marriage case is resolved by the Diocesan Tribunal.

6.       After the paperwork is complete, offer your $200.00 refundable deposit. This deposit will be refunded if all rules are followed and the celebration starts at the designated time.

7.       Pay the fee of $500.00, payable in full 2 weeks before the celebration. ( Non-members pay $700.00 for the celebration).

8.       Please study and choose the readings and prayers to be used during the ceremony before your appointment with the celebrant.

9.       Parties must abide by all of the Parish Ceremony Guidelines. These guidelines are available in a packet from the parish office on the day of the Initial Interview.

10.   The Parish Wedding Liturgy Coordinator will assist you with the arrangements with Lectors, Ushers, Altar Servers and Eucharistic Ministers for your celebration. Ministers from other parishes need to have the approval of the Pastor.