Two sacraments, Holy Orders and Matrimony, are directed toward the salvation of others. They confer a particular mission in the Church and serve to build up the People of God.
— Catechism of the Catholic Church

Through these sacraments those already consecrated by Baptism and Confirmation for the common priesthood of all the faithful can receive particular consecrations.
—Catechism of the Catholic Church

Sacrament of Holy Orders

Holy Orders is the sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to his apostles continues to be exercised in the Church until the end of time: this it is the sacrament of apostolic ministry. It includes three degrees: episcopate, presbyterate, and diaconate. Those called to Orders are called to serve the life of the Church, to proclaim the Word and to make available and accessible the riches of the Church sacraments. It is the responsibility of the whole Christian community to promote, nurture and pray for those who are called to this life.

Holy Matrimony

Among the seven sacraments of the church is Christian marriage or matrimony. Marriage is most authentically lived when it is understood in faith, experienced in love and founded upon hope. The Church tells us that sacramental marriage is a living sign of the love that Christ has for his church. It is the task of the church to assist its members in understanding the Christian mystery of the Sacrament of Marriage and to provide them with assistance and support as they prepare to enter this path to holiness.

Ordinarily, marriage in the Catholic Church is a between a Catholic Christian couple. The Church also allows marriages between Catholics and persons of another Christian church and between a Catholic and non-baptized person. For matrimony to be a sacrament, the bond of marriage and covenant must meet the following requirements: Both the man and woman must be free to marry. If married before, a declaration of nullity must be obtained if the spouse is still living. Both must be of legal age and mentally and physically capable of fulfilling the requirements of marriage.

For the parishioners of Holy Spirit parish. To ensure that the couple fully meets these requirements and to allow adequate time for preparation, engaged couples must contact their parish priest at least six months prior to the anticipated wedding date. At that time you will be able to share any special circumstances that may exist, learn about the preparation process and receive a brochure outlining details such as reserving the church, documents needed, and guidelines for the wedding service itself.

Entering into marriage is a holy and wonderful moment in the life of Catholics. We wish to support you in your choice and make this a most blessed experience.