What is Matrimony?
Matrimony is the sacrament of mission where a couple vows to devote themselves entirely to each other. It's focused on helping each spouse reach holiness and happiness in Christ and preparing each spouse to be worthy to enter Heaven.
What is Matrimony's form and matter?
It's form is the exchange of wedding vows.
It's matter is a Christian man with a Christian woman.
It's matter is a Christian man with a Christian woman.
Who can minister this sacrament?
The spouses themselves minister the sacrament with clergy as a witness.
What is the rite of Matrimony?
In Matrimony, after the procession, the Liturgy of the Word which consists of readings of the couple's choice. Next, the minister joins the couple and asks them the questions and gives consent for their marriage. Then they exchange their wedding vows in which they promise to love and remain faithful to each other for the rest of their lives. A blessing is made over the rings before they are exchanged and the couple is pronounced husband and wife.
Effects of Matrimony
- the two become "one-flesh"
- perpetual and exclusive convening partnership
- free, total, faithful, and fruitful nuptial love
Here's what a Catholic wedding would look like.
My Readings
First Reading: Tobit 8:4b-8
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