The Catholic Community of St. Mary of the Assumption congratulates you on your decision to marry in the Catholic Church! Our preparation process is designed to prepare you to enter a marriage that will last for the rest of your lives, as well as assess your readiness to do so at this time. The basic outline of the process appears below. Each item or requirement will be fully explained to you by the priest during your first interview.
1. Call the rectory (805) 922-5826 and request an appointment with the priest after you have read this information and completed the
Marriage Information Form . Formulario en español Both the bride and the groom must meet with him. This initial interview must take place at least six months before the proposed wedding date. Please scroll all the way down to download the Marriage Form.
2. Bring the completed form with you when you meet with the priest.
3. If there are no apparent obstacles to your marrying at this time, the priest will explain each requirement and discuss with you the Marriage Guidelines. If there are obstacles to marrying at this time, the priest will explain them to you and tell you how to remove them.
4. The marriage preparation process includes the following:
Several one-hour meetings with the priest who is assisting you with the preparation.
Collection of the documents necessary to complete your marriage file:
Proof of baptism or non-baptism for each party. (See additional requirements on Marriage Guidelines)
Certificates for First Communion and/or Confirmation if received in a Catholic or Orthodox Church.
Certificate of completion of an approved marriage preparation program.
Sworn testimony of two people for each party establishing their freedom to marry in the Catholic Church.
Sworn testimony of the bride and groom.
Valid civil marriage license issued by any county in the state of California or
If you are already civilly married, a certified copy of the marriage license for that ceremony.
Church decrees of annulment for any kind of prior marriage by either the bride or the groom.
Any special permission(s) required by Church law.
5. Fulfillment of financial obligations
6. Planning the wedding ceremony
7. Rehearsal
8. Celebration of the marriage