Marriage is a natural institution from God the Creator proper to the human race. The will of Christ makes the marriage of a baptised man and a baptised woman a sacrament.
In Matrimony a baptized man and a baptised woman are united with each other with the blessing of God mediated through Christ in the ministry of the Church as a sign of the unity between Jesus and his Church. Matrimony requires the consent of the couple, as expressed in the marriage promises. The couple and their consent are the signs of this sacrament. The couple are the ministers of the sacrament to each other. A priest or deacon officiating, properly delegated by ecclesiastical authority and designated in state law, is usually the witness for both Church and State.
You can find out more about the arrangements for Matrimony/ Marriage in the Catholic Church from the parish office by telephoning 01 284 5299.