For Catholics, the Sacrament of Marriage, or Holy Matrimony, is a public sign that one gives oneself totally to another person.  It is also a public statement about God; the loving union of husband and wife speaks of family values and also God's values. 

Any parishioner contemplating marriage in the Catholic Church must be a practicing Catholic.  The pastor must be contacted before a date is set.  There is a minimum six month preparation period.