This question ranks among my most frequently asked ones! Of course, you can! If you plan to marry in a Catholic church, you’ll need to firstly complete a “Prenuptial Declaration and Promise,” which consists of three key parts:
Part 1 – “I reaffirm my faith in Jesus Christ, and with god’s help I intend to continue living out that faith in the Catholic Church.”
In simpler terms, it means: “With God’s help, I intend to live out my Catholic faith throughout my life.”
Part 2 – “I acknowledge the respect I owe to the conscience of my future partner in marriage. They don’t believe what I believe, but I respect them and I honor them.”
This essentially signifies that, even though our beliefs may differ, I profoundly respect and honor my partner’s convictions.
Part 3 – “For my part I will see to it that I do everything I can to have our children baptized and educated as Catholics. Without taking any responsibility or authority away from my spouse.”
This pledge doesn’t diminish your spouse’s authority but underscores your dedication to raising your children as Catholics.
Fr. Mike Schmitz delivers an insightful message in a video, emphasizing the two primary purposes of marriage: firstly, for the betterment and support of your spouse, and secondly, for the procreation and education of children. Given the inherent challenges that come with marriage, it becomes even more crucial to exercise wisdom when considering a partner whose beliefs may differ from your own.
Many times, we seek not only a partner who accepts our faith but someone who actively contributes to our spiritual journey and growth, am I right?
When you can envision such a scenario and are seeking a devout Catholic to marry, you’re making a thoughtful choice by being upfront about your expectations. This transparency sets the stage for clear communication and understanding of your intentions within the marriage. When your potential spouse is aware of your desires and chooses to embark on this journey together, there’s the potential for a profound unity in Christ.
We invite you to join our Catholic Wedding Planning community on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/catholicweddingplanning. Here you can discuss all aspects of Catholic Wedding Planning, sharing experiences, and seeking guidance from fellow members. Connect with like-minded individuals who share your faith and excitement for this sacred journey. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to engage in insightful conversations, access valuable resources, and find support as you plan your Catholic wedding. Join us today and become a part of our growing community. We can’t wait to welcome you!
