Our Lady of the Mountains is a beautiful Catholic Church in Estes Park, Colorado. Many couples, near and far, wish to be married here. We receive many requests each year from couples that want to use our parish church for their weddings.

Because of the overwhelming popularity of our church, we have created these Wedding Policies and Event Instructions to allow the Catholic faithful to use our church for their weddings.

By scheduling your event at Our Lady of the Mountains, you are acknowledging that you have thoroughly reviewed and understand these Policies & Event Instructions, and you are agreeing to adhere to all terms.

Your contact for any questions or concerns you have regarding this document is the "Wedding Coordinator" as identified above. This document and its terms are incorporated into our Wedding Scheduling Agreement.
 

Canonical Requirements

Contact the Pastor and Deacon of your home parish regarding your intent to marry and follow their instructions. Couples will be instructed by their presiding Priest or Deacon regarding all aspects of the Sacrament of Matrimony. Nonetheless, a wedding cannot proceed at Our Lady of the Mountains without all canonical requirements being met, including but not limited to:
 

• Either the bride or the groom must be a baptized, practicing Catholic able to receive the sacraments (A Non-Catholic need not convert to Catholicism to marry a Catholic).


• If the couple is in the Archdiocese of Denver, the priest or deacon they are working with will send all completed documents directly to Our Lady of the Mountains.


• If the couple is outside the Archdiocese of Denver, the priest or deacon the couple are working with sends all completed documents to their hometown Church Archdiocese to review.  The couple's hometown Parish Archdiocese will then send the completed documents to the Denver Archdiocese for their review, and the Archdiocese of Denver sends the documents to the Wedding Coordinator at Our Lady of the Mountains, who typically receives them 4-6 weeks prior to the wedding.  Please make sure you start this process early enough to respect this timeline.


• If a previous marriage exists, a Declaration of Nullity must be obtained and an official copy forwarded to the wedding coordinator.

 

Contact the Wedding Coordinator to Schedule your Wedding

Contact the Wedding Coordinator to Reserve dates and times for both the wedding and the rehearsal. Once your dates and times are reserved, download the Wedding Scheduling Agreement by clicking on the button above. Print, complete, sign and date the Agreement and return it to the Wedding Coordinator at the address above to the attention of the Wedding Coordinator along with the Scheduling Fee to Confirm your wedding dates.

If more than one couple requests the same dates and times, the Wedding Coordinator will make best efforts to meet the couples' wishes, giving preference to the order in which the requests were received, but ultimately scheduling is at the discretion of the Wedding Coordinator.
 

Scheduling Fee

The scheduling fee for weddings held in 2024 is $1,800. The scheduling fee for weddings held in 2025 and thereafter is $2,000. The scheduling fee should accompany the return of the completed Wedding Scheduling agreement to confirm your dates and times. The scheduling fee does not include any donation to the Celebrant, the cost of musicians, florist, or any service other than the use and scheduling of the church for your wedding.
 

Wedding Schedule

Weddings are typically scheduled on Saturdays, however, other options may be available, but must be made through the Wedding Coordinator.
 

• Saturdays: 10 A.M, and 1:00 P.M.
• Select weekdays: discuss with Wedding Coordinator
• Sundays and Holy days: only per special circumstances; discuss with the Wedding Coordinator

 

Ceremony Timing Guidelines

Wedding scheduling encompasses a 2½ hour block of time, with proposed timing shown below. Couples should instruct their florist to deliver flowers no earlier than one hour before the ceremony.
 

• 1 hour preparation before the ceremony;
• 1 hour for the ceremony; and
• ½ hour after the ceremony for ’cleanup’ and photography.

 

Rehearsal

Rehearsals are to take approximately 1 hour and are scheduled at 4PM on Fridays, the day before a typical Saturday wedding. The Wedding Coordinator will handle the rehearsal. NO outside wedding planners are allowed to run rehearsals at Our Lady of the Mountains. Scheduling of the rehearsal time will occur when scheduling the wedding event. Bring your Marriage License to the rehearsal as the wedding cannot take place without it.
 

Matrimonial Candle

Matrimonial candles (Unity Candles) are not part of the Sacrament of Matrimony and are not permitted. If desired, they may of course be considered for the reception. Pew candles are also not permitted.
 

Bridal Dressing Room

The bridal room is for the convenience of the bride and her attendants. The Bridesmaids should come fully dressed, but if necessary, there is room for the bridal party to dress here at Our Łady of the Mountains as well as sufficient mirrors for touching up hair and makeup. These rooms must be left cleaned and picked up after the ceremony. Our Lady of the Mountains is not liable for lost or stolen personal items left therein.
 

Flowers and Decorations

Our Lady of the Mountains does not provide any special decorations. We do not provide storage for any items, so deliveries must be made the day of the wedding. Florists must check with the wedding coordinator regarding a suitable time for delivery, typically 1 hour before the Ceremony. The staff at Our Lady of the Mountains will not sign for any deliveries and are not liable for any items.

Do not move any chairs within the Sanctuary, the altar, or ambo. Two live flower arrangements may be placed in the Sanctuary area on the floor, in front on each side of the altar. If flowers to Mary are presented, these must also be live flowers. Other flower arrangements, bridal bouquet, bridesmaid bouquets, corsages, boutonnieres, and pew decorations can be live or silk flower arrangements.

No decorative items (flower arrangements, bows, ribbons) may be placed on the altar. If you desire pew bows or other decorations on the pews, no tape or tacks are permitted. Bows may be tied with ribbon or hung with rubber bands. There are 18 pews on each side of the main aisle.

All decorations must be prepared before bringing them into Our Lady of the Mountains. Special decorations must be removed from Our Lady of the Mountains directly after the ceremony and pictures. Please assign this duty to someone in your wedding party. We do not have storage space to hold these items for you, and we are not responsible for any of these items left behind at Our Łady of the Mountains.

For the safety of the wedding party and their guests, in consideration of our wildlife, and for the maintenance of our church and grounds, flower petals, leaves, birdseed or rice may not be strewn inside the church, the entryway, or on the outside grounds.  If you would like to include any such activity during the wedding ceremony please contact the Wedding Coordinator.

If items have been left behind in Our Lady of the Mountains, please have a family member or friend give the parish office (Wedding Coordinator) a call as soon as possible after the wedding to arrange for pickup of any items left. Those items left beyond 24 hours may be disposed of.
 

Music

Entering into a Catholic, Christian marriage should be reflected in the selection of Sacred Music, expressing Christian faith, hope and love. The most important purpose of Sacred Music in the celebration is to help people reflect and pray. Favorite secular and popular songs are to be reserved for the reception. Decisions regarding the appropriateness of the musicians, instruments and songs are to be made in consultation with the Wedding Coordinator.

THE USE OF PRE-RECORDED MUSIC IS NOT PERMITTED for any Catholic liturgical celebration, including weddings. A list of local musicians who are familiar with Catholic weddings, as well as a suggested list of appropriate music selections, are available through the Wedding Coordinator, who must review all music and readings at least 45 days prior to the wedding to provide ample time to make changes.
 

Additional Equipment

Any additional equipment (microphones, audio/visual, etc.) is the responsibility of the couple. As such, these must be in line with the dignity of the worship space and must be approved by the Wedding Coordinator before use.
 

Photography and Videography

The photographer and videographer, whether a professional or a family friend, must consult with the Wedding Coordinator to discuss the pictures taken during the ceremony.

Posed group pictures may be taken after the wedding ceremony. You will have 30 minutes after the ceremony for posed group pictures This must be done quickly and quietly out of respect for the Blessed Sacrament within the Tabernacle.  We suggest making a list of the pictures you want and inform those you want in the pictures not to leave the church proper until their pictures are taken.

If your wedding ceremony does not begin on time, your picture taking time will be cut short by the amount of time that your ceremony overran its scheduled time.

Because of the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, all photographs must be taken below the main altar (the lower altar). The photographer and videographer may not walk in the sanctuary, and may not move any furniture, candleholders or chairs. All off-camera lights, strobe lights, and umbrella lights are not allowed during the ceremony or before. No flash photography is allowed before, or during the ceremony. The photographer and videographer must meet with the Wedding Coordinator for instructions and available locations. Once the Bride is at the steps of the Sanctuary, the photographer and videographer may move around discretely during the ceremony while remaining inconspicuous. Photography by the guests during the ceremony is strictly prohibited.

After the ceremony, please proceed down the main aisle and return to the Main Altar by the west side corridor, so that the signing of documents and pictures may begin. Do not greet your guests at this time; you will be able to do that at your reception.
 

High Altitude Conditions

Estes Park has an altitude of 7500 or more feet and high altitude conditions exist, particularly the effects of dehydration. All in attendance should be aware of the importance of access to an adequate water supply, and that consumption of alcohol or other intoxicants will intensify dehydration and its effects.
 

Documents

The Celebrant will discuss all documentation and processes necessary to proceed with your wedding. Regardless, please note the following:

If your home parish is outside the territory of the Archdiocese of Denver, please forward your documents to your respective Diocesan Tribunal office for its review and they will forward your documents to the Archdiocese of Denver's Office of Tribunal for processing.

If your home parish is within the territory of the Archdiocese of Denver, prepare all pertinent documentation and transfer all original completed documents directly to: Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church, ATTN: Wedding Coordinator, 920 Big Thompson Ave., Estes Park, CO 80517. The Metropolitan Tribunal, in collaboration with Our Lady of the Mountains, will supervise that all documentation is indeed complete.

After signing your Marriage License on the day of your wedding, give it to the Our Lady of the Mountains Wedding Coordinator. A photocopy of the license will be taken, and the original Marriage License will be returned to you the day of the wedding. Forward your original Marriage License to the County Clerk and Recorder's Office where you obtained the Marriage License (refer to the county instructions).
 

Cancellation and Fee Refund Policy

If the event is cancelled by the couple (for any reason other than as discussed below) AFTER the wedding has been scheduled, 25% of the Scheduling Fee will be retained by Our Lady of the Mountains to cover administrative expenses.

If the event is cancelled by the couple (for any reason other than as discussed below) within one week of the ceremony, 50% will be retained by Our Lady of the Mountains.

In the event the Celebrant must cancel, it is up to the couple to find a replacement Celebrant. Contact the Wedding Coordinator as soon as possible. Our Lady of the Mountains can help you find a replacement Celebrant. If no replacement can be found in a timely manner, Our Lady of the Mountains will work with the couple to reschedule and no additional fee will be due. If rescheduling is not pursued or is not possible, Our Lady of the Mountains will retain 25% of the scheduling fee to cover administrative expenses.

The failure of a couple to timely meet canonical requirements will result in cancellation, and Our Lady of the Mountains will retain 25% of the Scheduling Fee to cover administrative expenses.

Our Lady of the Mountains is located in the Colorado mountains; at times the area is subjected to intense weather conditions. In the event the wedding must be cancelled due to inclement weather or other acts of God or to unforeseen maintenance, and cannot be rescheduled, 100% of the Scheduling Fee will be refunded. Cancellation is a last resort, but any decision to cancel issued by the Wedding Coordinator will be final; there is no appeal. The Wedding Coordinator will provide notice of the need to cancel as soon as is reasonably possible.

In the event Our Lady of the Mountains retains any portion of the Scheduling Fee, the remaining portion will be refunded within 30 days of cancellation (mailed to the address on file unless other delivery arrangements are made).
 

Site Review by Couple

Inclement weather, acts of God, changing seasons and/or unforeseen maintenance may affect the appearance of the Church and surrounding area at any given time. Though the staff at Our Lady of the Mountains strives to ensure its beauty and charm remains intact at all times, Our Lady of the Mountain cannot guarantee that the Church and its grounds will always present as “picture perfect”. By entering into the Wedding Scheduling Agreement, the couple confirms they have had the opportunity to personally view the Church and its grounds, have determined that it meets their needs and expectations, and are prepared for and accept the possibility of changes in aesthetics and conditions.
 

Indemnification and Waiver of Liability

By entering into the Wedding Scheduling Agreement, the couple agrees to indemnify and hold Our Lady of the Mountains, it officers, its employees and its agents free and harmless from and against any and all costs (including court costs and legal fees), losses, claims, judgments, liens, demands, liabilities, and causes of action of every kind and character (collectively, the “Claims”), but only to extent that a Claim (i) results directly or indirectly from actions of the couple pursuant to this Agreement and (ii) does not result from gross negligence or willful misconduct on the part of Our Lady of the Mountains. This indemnification obligation is contingent upon Our Lady of the Mountains providing the couple written notice of a Claim.
 

Choice of Law

Event scheduling and terms are governed by and construed under the laws of the State of Colorado applicable to agreements made and fully performed therein, excluding any conflicts of law's provisions. The state courts of the State of Colorado in Denver County and, if the jurisdictional prerequisites exist at the time, the United States District Court for Colorado, shall have sole and exclusive jurisdiction to hear and determine any dispute or controversy arising under or concerning this Agreement.

Three Forms of the Wedding Rite

There are three forms of the Wedding Rite:
 

1. Wedding within Mass (Form 1) wherein the Marriage Ceremony takes place with Mass. The Bride or Groom or both may or may not take Communion.


2. Wedding without Mass (Form 2) wherein Mass is not celebrated due to circumstances or necessity. There may or may not be a Communion service, but there will be no Liturgy of the Eucharist.


3. Between a Catholic and a Catechumen or a non-Christian (Form 3) wherein the service is mainly the Celebration of Matrimony. There is no Liturgy of the Eucharist or Communion Service, and the Liturgy of the Word is one or two readings, at least one of which must speak of marriage. This Form may take place in a church or other suitable location.

Introductory Rites
 

• The Welcome: The Priest, along with the servers, may either greet the bridal party at the doors of the church, or at the place prepared for the bridal couple.


• The Processional: When the greeting is at the church door, a processional to the altar ensues. The bridal couple should work with the Wedding Coordinator to select the appropriate Processional music. In Forms 1 & 2 the Procession is to the altar, which the Priest then venerates.  In Form 3 the Procession is to the seats prepared for all those present.


• The Disposition: There are three versions of the Disposition, whose purpose is to dispose those present inwardly for celebration of Marriage.  Forms 1 & 2 use either of the first two Dispositions and Form 3 uses the third Disposition as a Rite of Reception, as indicated below.


• The Gloria: In Form 1, the Gloria is said.


• The Collect: In Forms 1 & 2, there are six suggested Collects. There is no Collect in Form 3.

Liturgy of the Word

Note: In Form 3, one or two readings are selected, at least one of which that speaks explicitly to Marriage must be chosen, and the Homily follows those readings.  Forms 2 and 3 follow the full Liturgy of the Word.
 

• First (Old Testament) Reading: There are nine suggested First Readings.


• Responsorial Psalm: There are seven suggested Responsorial Psalms.


• Second (New Testament) Reading: There are 14 suggested Second Readings.


• Alleluia Verses: There are four suggested Alleluia Verses before the Gospel.


• Gospel Reading: There are 10 suggested Gospel Readings.


• Homily

Celebration of Matrimony
 

• Introduction: Forms 1 and 2 use the same introduction. Form 3 uses a separate introduction as indicated below.


• The Questions before the Consent: All Forms use the same questions.


• The Consent: All Forms use the same Consent, which can either be a declaration or through questioning by the Priest. There are two versions for each.


• The Reception of the Consent: All Forms use the same Reception of the Consent.


• The Blessing and giving of the Rings:
  • Blessing of the Rings: There are three versions of the Blessing used by all Forms.
  • Giving of the Rings: There is one version of the Giving used by all Forms, with modifications when using Form 3.


• The Blessing and giving of the Arras: This is an optional rite, please coordinate with your Celebrant. There is one version of the Blessing and the Giving used by all Forms.


• The Universal Prayer: There are two versions of the Universal Prayer used by all Forms.

Liturgy of the Eucharist
 

• Presentation of the Gifts and Preparation of the Altar.


• Prayer over the Offerings: There are three versions of the Prayer over the Offerings.


• Eucharistic Prayer (Preface): There are three versions of the Eucharistic Prayer.


• Lord's Prayer.


• Blessing and Placing of the Lazo/Veil: This is an optional rite, please coordinate with your Celebrant. There is one version of the Blessing and Placing of the Lazo/Veil for all Forms.


• The Nuptial Blessing: There are six versions of the Nuptial Blessing depending on the Form and circumstance.


• Communion.


• Prayer after Communion: There are three versions for all Forms.

Concluding Rites
 

• The Final Blessing: There are 4 versions for all Forms, and when Holy Communion is not distributed.


• The Recessional (music). The bridal couple should work with the Wedding Coordinator to select the appropriate Recessional music.

Note: There will be no signing of documents at the Altar or in the Chapel. Please proceed to the Parish Office directly after the ceremony to sign all paperwork so your marriage may be recorded.

Note: The numeric references listed in parenthesis, as in (999), are the numbered reference in the OCM.
 

Introductory Rites

Disposition

After the priest greets the couple and all those present, he speaks these or similar words to dispose them inwardly for the Celebration of Matrimony.
 

Disposition (52) Forms 1 & 2

We have come rejoicing into the house of the Lord for this celebration, dear brothers and sisters, and now we stand with N. and N. on the day they intend to form a home of their own.

For them this is a moment of unique importance. So Let us support them with our affection, with our friendship, and with our prayer as their brothers and sisters. Let us listen attentively with them to the word that God speaks to us today.

Then with holy Church, let us humbly pray to God the Father, through Christ our Lord, for this couple, his servants, that he lovingly accept them, bless them, and make them always one.
 

Disposition (53) Forms 1 & 2

N. and N., the Church shares your joy and warmly welcomes you, together with your families and friends, as today, in the presence of God the Father, you establish between yourselves a lifelong partnership.

May the Lord hear you on this your joyful day. May he send you help from heaven and protect you. May he grant you your hearts' desire and fulfill every one of your prayers.
 

Disposition (120) Form 3

N. and N., the Church shares your joy and warmly welcomes you, together with your families and friends, as today you establish between yourselves a lifelong partnership. For believers God is the source of love and fidelity, because God is love.

So let us listen attentively to his word and let us humbly pray to him, that he may grant you your hearts' desire and fulfill every one of your prayers.
 

The Collect

Collect (188)

This Collect may not be used in the same celebration as the first Nuptial Blessing (74 and 105).

O God, who consecrated the bond of Marriage by so great a mystery that in the wedding covenant you foreshadow the Sacrament of Christ and his Church, grant, we pray, to these your servants, that what they receive in faith they may live out in deeds.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
 

Collect (189)

O God, who in creating the human race willed that man and wife should be one, join we pray, in a bond of inseparable love these your servants who are to be united in the covenant of Marriage, so that, as you make their love fruitful, they may become, by your grace, witnesses to charity itself.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
 

Collect (190)

Be attentive to our prayers, O Lord, and in your kindness pour out your grace on these your servants (N. and N.), that, coming together before your altar, they may be confirmed in love for one another.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
 

Collect (191)

Grant, we pray, almighty God, that these your servants, now to be joined by the Sacrament of Matrimony, may grow in the faith they profess and enrich your Church with faithful offspring.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
 

Collect (192)

Be attentive to our prayers, O Lord, and in your kindness uphold what you have established for the increase of the human race, so that the union you have created may be kept safe by your assistance.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
 

Collect (193)

O god, who since the beginning of the world have blessed the increase of offspring, show favor to our supplications and pour forth the help of you blessing on these your servants (N. and N.), so that in the union of Marriage they may be bound together in mutual affection, in likeness of mind, and in shared holiness.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
 

Liturgy of the Word

First/Old Testament Reading

First Reading (144): Male and female he created them; Genesis 1:26-28, 31a

Then God said: Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air and the cattle and over all the wild animals and all the creatures that crawl on the ground.

God created man in his image; in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.

God blessed them, saying: be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move on the earth. God looked at everything he had made, and he found it very good.

The word of the Lord.
 

First Reading (145): The two of them become one body; Genesis 2:18-24

The Lord God said: It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a suitable partner for him. So the Lord God formed out of the ground various wild animals and various birds of the air, and he brought them to the man to see what he would call them; whatever the man called each of them would be its name.

The man gave names to all the cattle, all the birds of the air, and all wild animals; but none proved to be the suitable partner for the man.

So the Lord God cast a deep sleep on the man, and while he was asleep, He took out one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. The Lord God then built up into a woman the rib that he had taken from the man. When He brought her to the man, the man said:

"This one, at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; This one shall be called 'woman', for out of 'her man' this one has been taken."

That is why a man leaves his father and mother and clings to his wife, and the two of them become one body.

The word of the Lord.
 

First Reading (146): In his love for Rebekah, Isaac found solace after the death of his mother; Genesis 24:48-51,58-67

The servant of Abraham said to Laban: "I bowed down in worship to the Lord, blessing the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who had led me on the right road to obtain the daughter of my master's kinsman for his son. If, therefore, you have in mind to show true loyalty to my master, let me know; but if not, let me know that, too; I can then proceed accordingly."

Laban and his household said in reply; "This thing comes from the Lord; we can say nothing to you either for or against it. Here is Rebekah, ready for you; take her with you, that she may become the wife of your master's son, as the Lord has said".

So they called Rebekah and asked her, "Do you wish to go with this man?" She answered, "I do." At this they allowed their sister Rebekah and her nurse to take leave, along with Abraham's servant and his men. Invoking a blessing on Rebekah, they said: "Sister, may you grow into thousands of myriads; And may your descendants gain possession of the gates of their enemies!"

Then Rebekah and her maids started out; they mounted their camels and followed the man. So the servant took Rebekah and went on his way.

Meanwhile Isaac had gone from Beer-lahai-roi and was living in the region of the Negeb. One day toward evening he went out…in the field, and as he looked around, he noticed that camels were approaching. Rebekah, too, was looking about, and when she saw him, she alighted from her camel and asked the servant, "Who is the man out there, walking through the fields toward us? "That is my master," replied the servant. Then she covered herself with her veil.

The servant recounted to Isaac all the things he had done. Then Isaac took Rebekah into his tent; he married her, and thus she became his wife. In his love for her Isaac found solace after the death of his mother Sarah.

The word of the Lord.
 

First Reading (147): May the Lord of heaven prosper you both. May he grant you mercy and peace; Tobit 7:6-14

Raphael and Tobiah entered the house of Raguel and greeted him. Raguel sprang up and kissed Tobiah, shedding tears of joy. But when he heard that Tobit had lost his eyesight, he was grieved and wept aloud. He said to Tobiah: "My child, God Bless you! You are the son of a noble and good father. But what a terrible misfortune that such a righteous and charitable man should be afflicted with blindness!" He continued to weep in the arms of his kinsman Tobiah. His wife Edna also wept for Tobit; and even their daughter Sarah Began to weep.

Afterward, Raguel slaughtered a ram from the flock and gave them a cordial reception. When they had bathed and reclined to eat, Tobiah said to Raphael, "Brother Azariah, ask Raguel to let me marry my kinswoman Sarah." Raguel overheard the words; so he said to the boy: "Eat and drink and be merry tonight, for no man is more entitled to marry my daughter Sarah than you, brother. Besides, not even I have the right to give her to anyone but you, because you are my closest relative.

But I will explain the situation to you very frankly. I have given her in marriage to seven men, all of whom were kinsmen of ours, and all died on the very night they approached her. But now, son, eat and drink. I am sure the Lord will look after you both." Tobiah answered, "I will eat or drink nothing until you set aside what belongs to me."

Raguel said to him: "I will do it. She is yours according to the decree of the Book of Moses. Your marriage to her has been decided in heaven! Take your kinswoman, from now on you are her love, and she is yours beloved. And tonight, son, may the Lord of heaven prosper you both. May he grant you mercy and peace." Then Raguel called his daughter Sarah, and she came to him. He took her by the hand and gave her to Tobiah with the words: "Take her according to the law. According to the decree written in the Book of Moses she is your wife. Take her and bring her back safely to your father. And may the God of heaven grant both of you peace and prosperity."

He then called her mother and told her to bring a scroll, so that he might draw up a marriage contract stating that he gave Sarah to Tobiah as his wife according to the decree of the Mosaic law. Her mother brought the scroll, and he drew up the contract, to which they affixed their seal.

Afterward they began to eat and drink.

The word of the Lord.
 

First Reading (148): Allow us to live together to a happy old age; Tobit 8:4b-8

On their wedding night Tobiah arose from bed and said to his wife, "Sister, get up. Let us pray and beg our Lord to have mercy on us and to grant us deliverance." Sarah got up, and they started to pray and beg that deliverance might be theirs. They began with these words:

"Blessed are you, O God of our fathers; praised be your name forever and ever. Let the heavens and all your creation praise you forever. You made Adam and you gave him his wife Eve to be his help and support; and from these two the human race d\scended. You said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone; let us make him a partner like himself.' Now, Lord, you know that I take this wife of mind not because of lust, but for a noble purpose. Call down your mercy on me and on her, and allow us to live together to a happy old age."

They said together, "Amen, Amen."

The word of the Lord.
 

First Reading (149): The woman who fears the Lord is to be praised; Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31

When one finds a worthy wife her value is far beyond pearls. Her husband, entrusting his heart to her, has an unfailing prize.

She brings him good, and not evil, all the days of her life. She obtains wool and flax and makes cloth with skillful hands. She puts her hands to the distaff, and her fingers ply the spindle. She reaches out her hands to the poor, and extends her arms to the needy. Charm is deceptive and beauty fleeting; the woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her a reward of her labors, and let her works praise her at the city gates.

The word of the Lord.
 

First Reading (150): Stern as death is love; Song of Songs 2:8-10, 14, 16a, 8:6-7a

Hark! my lover–here he comes springing across the mountains, leaping across the hills. My lover is like a gazelle or a young stag. He stands behind our wall, gazing through the windows, peering through lattices. My lover speaks; he says to me, "Arise, my beloved, my dove, my beautiful one, and come!

O my dove in the clefts of the rock, in the secret recesses of the cliff, Let me see you, let me hear your voice, for your voice is sweet, and you are lovely."

My lover belongs to me and I to him. He says to me: "Set as a seal on your arm; For stern as death is love, relentless as the nether world is devotion; its flames are a blazing fire. Deep waters cannot quench love, nor floods sweep it away."

The word of the Lord.
 

First Reading (151): Like the sun rising in the Lord's heavens, the beauty of a virtuous wife is the radiance of her home; Sirach 26:1-4, 13-16 (Vg. 26:1-4, 16-21)

Blessed the husband of a good wife, twice-lengthened are his days; A worthy wife brings joy to her husband, peaceful and full is his life. A good wife is a generous gift bestowed upon him who fears the Lord; Be he rich or poor, his heart is content, and a smile is ever on his face.

A gracious wife delights her husband, her thoughtfulness puts flesh on his bones; A gift from the Lord is her governed speech, and her firm virtue is of surpassing worth. Choicest of blessings is a modest wife, priceless her chaste soul. A holy and decent woman adds grace upon grace; indeed, no price is worthy of her temperate soul. Like the sun rising in the Lord's heavens the beauty of a virtuous wife is the radiance of her home.

The word of the Lord.
 

First Reading (152): I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah; Jeremiah 31:31-32a, 33-34a

The days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah. It will not be like the covenant I made with their fathers: the day I took them by the hand to lead them forth from the land of Egypt. But this is the covenant which I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord.

I will place my law within them, and write it upon their hearts; I will be their God, and they shall be my people. No longer will they have need to teach their friends and relatives how to know the Lord. All, from least to greatest, shall know me, says the Lord.

The word of the Lord.
 

Responsorial Psalm

Responsorial Psalm (167); Psalm 33:12 and 18, 20-21, 22

℟: The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord

Blessed the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he has chosen as his heritage. Yes, the Lord's eyes are on those who fear him, who hope in his merciful love. [℟]

Our soul is waiting for the Lord. He is our help and our shield. In him do our hearts find joy. We trust in his holy name. [℟]

May your merciful love be upon us, as we hope in you, O Lord. [℟]
 

Responsorial Psalm (168); Psalm 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9

℟: I will bless the Lord at all times, or
℟: Taste and see the goodness of the Lord

I will bless the Lord at all times, praise of him is always in my mouth. In the Lord my soul shall make its boast; the humble shall hear and be glad. [℟]

Glorify the Lord with me; together let us praise his name. I sought the Lord, and he answered me; from all my terrors he set me free. [℟]

Look toward him and be radiant; let your faces not be abashed. This lowly one called; the Lord heard, and rescued him from all his distress. [℟]

The angel of the Lord is encamped around those who fear him, to rescue them. Taste and see that the Lord is good. Blessed the man who seeks refuge in him. [℟]
 

Responsorial Psalm (169); Psalm 103:1-2, 8, and 13, 17-18a

℟: The Lord is kind and merciful, or
℟: The Lord's kindness is everlasting to those who fear him.

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all within me, his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and never forget all his benefits. [℟]

The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and rich in mercy. As a father has compassion on his children, the Lord's compassion is on those who fear him. [℟]

But the mercy of the Lord is everlasting upon those who hold him in fear, upon children's children his righteousness for those who keep his covenant. [℟]
 

Responsorial Psalm (170); Psalm 112:1bc-2, 3-4, 5-7a, 7bc-8.9

℟: Blessed the man who greatly delights in the Lord's commands, or
℟: Alleluia

Blessed the man who fears the Lord, who takes great delight in his commandments. His descendants shall be powerful on earth; the generation of the upright will be blest. [℟]

Riches and wealth are in his house; his righteousness stands firm forever. A light rises in the darkness for the upright he is generous, merciful, and righteous. [℟]

It goes well for the man who deals generously and lends, who conducts his affairs with justice He will never be moved; forever shall the righteous be remembered. He has no fear of evil news. [℟]

With a firm heart, he trusts in the Lord, With a steadfast heart he will not fear; he will see the downfall of his foes. [℟]

Openhanded, he gives to the poor; his righteousness stands firm forever. His might shall be exalted in glory. [℟]
 

Responsorial Psalm (171); Psalm 128:1-2, 3, 4-5ac and 6a

℟: Blessed are those who fear the Lord, or
℟: See how the Lord blesses those who fear him.

Blessed are all who fear the Lord, and walk in his ways! By the labor of your hands you shall eat. You will be blessed and prosper. [℟]

Your wife like a fruitful vine in the heart of your house; your children like shoots of the olive around your table. [℟]

Indeed thus shall be blessed the man who fears the Lord. May the Lord bless you from Zion all the days of your life! May you see your children's children. [℟]
 

Responsorial Psalm (172); Psalm 145:8-9, 10 and 15, 17-18

℟: How good is the Lord to all.

The Lord is kind and full of compassion, slow to anger, abounding in mercy. How good is the Lord to all, compassionate to all his creatures. [℟]

All your works shall thank you, O Lord, and all your faithful ones bless you. The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food in due season. [℟]

The Lord is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his deeds. The Lord is close to all who call him, who call on him in truth. [℟]
 

Responsorial Psalm (173); Psalm 148:1-2, 3-4 9-10 11-13ab, 13c-14a

℟: Let all praise the name of the Lord, or
℟: Alleluia.

Praise the Lord from the heavens; praise him in the heights. Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his hosts. [℟]

Praise him sun and moon; praise him all shining stars. Praise him, highest heavens and the waters above the heavens. [℟]

Mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars beasts, both wild and tame, creeping things and birds on the wing. [℟]

Kings of the earth and all peoples, princes and all judges of the earth, young men and maidens as well, the old and the young together, Let them praise the name of the Lord, for his name alone is exalted. [℟]

His splendor above heaven and earth. He exalts the strength of his people. [℟]
 

Second/New Testament Readings

Second Reading (153): What will separate us from the love of Christ? Romans 8:13b-35, 37-39

Brothers and sisters: If God is for us, who can be against us? He did not spare his own Son but handed him over for us all, how will he not also give us everything else along with him? Who will bring a charge against God's chosen ones?

It is God who acquits us. Who will condemn? It is Christ Jesus who died, rather, was raised, who also is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us. What will separate us from the love of Christ?

Will anguish, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or the sword? No, in all these things, we conquer overwhelmingly through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor present things, nor future things, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

The word of the Lord.
 

Second Reading (154): Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; Romans 12:1-2, 9-18, [omit text for short form]

I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, your spiritual worship. Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect.

Let love be sincere; hate what is evil, hold on to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; anticipate one another in showing honor, Do not grow slack in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, endure in affliction, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the holy ones, exercise hospitality.

[Bless those who persecute you, bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Have the same regard for one another; do not be haughty but associate with the lowly; do not be wise in your own estimation. Do not repay anyone evil for evil; be concerned for what is noble in the sight of all. If possible, on your part, live at peace with all.]

The word of the Lord.
 

Second Reading (155): Welcome one another as Christ welcomed you; Romans 15:1b-3a, 5-7, 13

Brothers and sisters: We ought to put up with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves; let each of us please our neighbor for the good, for building up. For Christ did not please himself.

May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to think in harmony with one another, in keeping with Christ Jesus, that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Welcome one another, then, as Christ welcomed you, for the glory of God. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

The word of the Lord.
 

Second Reading (156): Your body is a temple of the Spirit; 1 Corinthians 6:13c-15a, 17-20

Brothers and sisters: The body is not for immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body; God raised the Lord and will also raise us by his power.

Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Whoever is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him. Avoid immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the immoral person sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been purchased at a price. Therefore glorify God in your body.

The word of the Lord.
 

Second Reading (157): If I do not have love, I gain nothing; 1 Corinthians 12:31-13:8a

Brothers and sisters: Strive eagerly for the greatest spiritual gifts.

But I shall show you a still more excellent way. If I speak in human and angelic tongues but do not have love, I am a resounding gong or a clashing cymbal. And if I have the gift of prophecy and comprehend all mysteries and all knowledge; if I have all faith so as to move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give away everything I own, and if I hand my body over so that I may boast but do not have love, I gain nothing.

Love is patient, love is kind. It is not jealous, is not pompous, it is not inflated, it is not rude, it does not seek its own interests, it is not quick-tempered, it does not brood over injury, it does not rejoice over wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.

The word of the Lord.
 

Second Reading (158): One Body and one Spirit; Ephesians 4:1-6

Brothers and sisters: I, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to live in a manner worthy of the call you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love, striving to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace: one Body and one Spirit, as you were also called to the one hope of your call; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

The word of the Lord.
 

Second Reading (159): This is a great mystery, but I speak in reference to Christ and the Church; Ephesians 5:2a, 21-33 [omit text for short form]

Brothers and Sisters: Live in love, as Christ loved us and handed himself over for us. [Be subordinate to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Wives should be subordinate to their husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is head of his wife just as Christ is head of the Church, he himself the savior of the body. As the Church is subordinate to Christ, so wives should be subordinate to their husbands in everything.]

Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ loved the Church and handed himself over for her to sanctify her, cleansing her by the bath of water with the word, that he might present to himself the Church in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish.

So also husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one hates his own flesh but rather nourishes and cherishes it, even as Christ does the Church, because we are members of his Body. For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.

This is a great mystery, but I speak in reference to Christ and the Church. [In any case, each one of you should love his wife as himself, and the wife should respect her husband.]

The word of the Lord.
 

Second Reading (160): The God of peace will be with you; Philippians 4:4-9

Brothers and Sisters: Rejoice in the Lord always, I shall say it again: rejoice! Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near.

Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers and sisters, Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me. Then the God of peace will be with you.

The word of the Lord.
 

Second Reading (161): And over all these put on love, that is, the bond of perfection; Colossians 3:12-17

Brothers and sisters: Put on as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if one has a grievance against another; as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do. And over all these put on love, that is, the bond of perfection. And let the peace of Christ control your hearts, the peace into which you were also called in one Body. And be thankful.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another, singing psalms, hymns, and the spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and Father through him.

The word of the Lord.
 

Second Reading (162): Let marriage be held in honor by all; Hebrews 13:1-4a, 5-6b

Brothers and Sisters: Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect hospitality, for through it some have unknowingly entertained angels.

Be mindful of prisoners as if sharing their imprisonment, and of the ill-treated as of yourselves, for you also are in the body. Let marriage be honored among all and the marriage bed be kept undefiled. Let your life be free from love of money but be content with what you have, for he has said, I will never forsake you or abandon you. Thus we may say with confidence:

The Lord is my helper, and I will not be afraid.

The word of the Lord.
 

Second Reading (163): Be of one mind, sympathetic, loving toward one another; 1 Peter 3:1-9

Beloved: You wives should be subordinate to your husbands so that even if some disobey the word they may be won over without a word by their wives' conduct when they observe your reverent and chaste behavior.

Your adornment should not be an external one: braiding the hair, wearing gold jewelry, or dressing in fine clothes, but rather the hidden character of the heart, expressed in the imperishable beauty of a gentle and calm disposition, which is precious in the sight of God.

For this is also how the holy women who hoped in God once used to adorn themselves and were subordinate to their husbands; thus Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him "lord." You are her children when you do what is good and fear no intimidation.

Likewise, you husbands should live with your wives in understanding, showing honor to the weaker female sex, since we are joint heirs of the gift of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.

Finally, all of you, be of one mind, sympathetic, loving toward one another, compassionate, humble. Do not return evil for evil, or insult for insult: but, on the contrary, a blessing, because to this you were called, that you might inherit a blessing.

The word of the Lord.
 

Second Reading (164): Love in deed and in truth; 1 John 3:18-24

Children, let us love not in word or speech but in deed and truth. Now this is how we shall know that we belong to the truth. and reassure our hearts before him in whatever our hearts condemn, for God is greater than our hearts and knows everything.

Beloved, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence in God and receive from him whatever we ask, because we keep his commandments and do what pleases him.

And his commandment is this: we should believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and love one another just as he commanded us. Those who keep his commandments remain in him, and he in them, and the way we know that he remains in us is from the Spirit that he gave us.

The word of the Lord.
 

Second Reading (165): God is love; 1 John 4:7-12

Beloved, let us love one another, because love is of God everyone who loves is begotten by God and knows God. Whoever is without love does not know God, for God is love. In this way the love of God was revealed to us:

God sent his only-begotten Son into the world so that we might have life through him. In this is love: not that we have loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as expiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also must love one another. No one has ever seen God. Yet, if we love one another, God remains in us and his love is brought to perfection in us.

The word of the Lord.
 

Second Reading (166): Blessed are those who have been called to the wedding feast of the Lamb; Revelation 19:1, 5-9a

I, John, heard what sounded like the loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, saying:

"Alleluia! Salvation, glory, and might belong to our God. "

A voice coming from the throne said:

"Praise our God, all you his servants, and you who revere him, small and great."

Then I heard something like the sound of a great multitude or the sound of rushing water or mighty peals of thunder, as they said: "Alleluia! The Lord has established his reign, our God, the almighty. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory. For the wedding day of the Lamb has come, his bride has made herself ready. She was allowed to wear a bright, clean linen garment." (The linen represents the righteous deeds of the holy ones).

Then the angel said to me, "Write this: Blessed are those who have been called to the wedding feast of the Lamb."

The word of the Lord.
 

Alleluia Verses before the Gospel

Alleluia (56); Psalm 134:3

May the Lord bless you from Zion, he who made both heaven and earth
 

Alleluia (174); 1 John 4.7b

Everyone who loves is begotten of God and knows God.
 

Alleluia (175); 1 John 4:8b and 11

God is love. Let us love one another, as God has loved us.
 

Alleluia (176); 1 John 4:12

If we love one another, God remains in us and his love is brought to perfection in us.
 

Alleluia (177); 1 John 4:16

Whoever remains in love, remains in God and God in him.
 

Gospel Readings

Gospel Reading (178): ✠ A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew; Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven, Matthew 5:1-12a

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying:

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven
Blessed are they who mourn for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land.
Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the clean of heart for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me.
Rejoice and be glad for your reward will be great in heaven."

The Gospel of the Lord
 

Gospel Reading (179): ✠ A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew; You are the light of the world, Matthew 5:13-16

Jesus said to his disciples; "You are the salt of the earth, But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world.

A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lamp stand, here it gives light to all in the house.

Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father."

The Gospel of the Lord
 

Gospel Reading (180): ✠ A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew; A wise man built his house on a rock, Matthew 7:21, 24-29 [omit for short form]

Jesus said to his disciples: "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the Kingdom of heaven but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house, But it did not collapse; it had been set solidly on rock.

[And everyone who listens to these words of mine but does not act on them will be like a fool who built his house on sand. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. And it collapsed and was completely ruined."

When Jesus finished these words, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.]

The Gospel of the Lord
 

Gospel Reading (181): ✠  A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew; What God has united, man must not separate, Matthew 19:3-6

Some Pharisees approached Jesus, and tested him, saying, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any cause whatever?" He said in reply,

"Have you not read that from the beginning the Creator made them male and female and said, For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, man must not separate."

The Gospel of the Lord
 

Gospel Reading (182): ✠  A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew; This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second is like it, Matthew 22:35-40

One of the Pharisees, a scholar of the law, tested Jesus by asking, "Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?" He said to him,

"You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment.

The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. The whole law and the prophets depend on these two commandments."

The Gospel of the Lord
 

Gospel Reading (183): ✠ A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark; They are no longer two, but one flesh, Mark 10:6-9

Jesus said: "From the beginning of creation, God made them male and female. For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. So they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together no human being must separate.

The Gospel of the Lord
 

Gospel Reading (184): ✠ A reading from the holy Gospel according to John; Jesus did this as the beginning of his signs in Cana in Galilee, John 2:1-11

There was a wedding in Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Jesus and his disciples were also invited to the wedding. When the wine ran short, the mother of Jesus said to him, "They have no wine." And Jesus said to her "Woman, how does your concern affect me? My hour has not yet come." His mother said to the servers, "Do whatever he tells you."

Now there were six stone water jars there for Jewish ceremonial washings, each holding twenty to thirty gallons. Jesus told them, "Fill the jars with water." So they filled them to the brim. Then he told them, "Draw some out now and take it to the headwaiter." So they took it.

And when the headwaiter tasted the water that had become wine without knowing where it came from (although the servants who had drawn the water knew) the headwaiter called the bridegroom and said to him "Everyone serves good wine first, and then when people have drunk freely, an inferior one; but you have kept the good wine until now."

Jesus did this as the beginning of his signs in Cana in Galilee and so revealed his glory and his disciples began to believe in him.

The Gospel of the Lord
 

Gospel Reading (185): ✠ A reading from the holy Gospel according to John; Remain in my love, John 15:9-12

Jesus said to his disciples: "As the Father loves me so I also love you. Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and remain in his love."

"I have told you this so that my joy might be in you and your joy might be complete. This is my commandment: love one another as I love you."

The Gospel of the Lord
 

Gospel Reading (186): ✠ A reading from the holy Gospel according to John; This is my commandment: love one another, John 15:12-16

Jesus said to his disciples: "This is my commandment: love one another as I love you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I no longer call you slaves, because a slave does not know what his master is doing. I have called you friends, because I have told you everything I have heard from my Father.

It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you."

The Gospel of the Lord
 

Gospel Reading (187): ✠  A reading from the holy Gospel according to John; That they may be brought to perfection as one, John 17:20-25 [omit for short form]:

Jesus raised his eyes to heaven and said: "I pray not only for my disciples, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one as you, Father, are in me and I in You, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me.

And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may be brought to perfection as one, that the world may know that you sent me, and that you loved them even as you loved me.

[Father, they are your gift to me. I wish that where I am they also may be with me, that they may see my glory that you gave me, because you loved me before the foundation of the world.

Righteous Father, the world also does not know you, but I know you, and they know that you sent me. I made known to them your name and I will make it known, that the love with which you loved me may be in them and I in them.]"

The Gospel of the Lord
 

The Celebration of Matrimony

The Introduction

Introduction Forms 1 & 2 (59 and 93)

Dearly beloved, you have come together in the house of the Church, so that in the presence of the Church's minister and the community your intention to enter into Marriage may be strengthened by the Lord with a sacred seal. Christ abundantly blesses the love that binds you.

Through a special Sacrament, he enriches and strengthens those he has already consecrated by Holy Baptism, that they may be faithful to each other for ever and assume the responsibilities of married life. and so in the presence of the Church, I ask you to state your intentions.
 

Introduction Form 3 (124)

Dearly beloved, You have come together here before a minister of the Church and in presence of the community so that your intention to enter into Marriage may be strengthened by the Lord with a sacred seal, and your love be enriched by his blessing,

So that you may have strength to be faithful to each other for ever and to assume all the responsibilities of married life. And so in the presence of the Church, I ask you to state your intentions.
 

The Questions before Consent

 

The Questions before Consent for all Forms (60, 94, and 125)

N. and N., have you come here to enter into Marriage without coercion, freely and wholeheartedly?

[I have]

Are you prepared, as you follow the path of Marriage, to love and honor each other for as long as you both shall live?

[I am]

Are you prepared to accept children lovingly from God and to bring them up according to the law of Christ and the Church?**

[I am]

** May be omitted if circumstances suggest this, for example if the couple is advanced in years
 

The Consent (Marriage Vows) for all Forms

Since it is your intention to enter the covenant of Holy Matrimony, join your hands and declare your consent before God and his Church.
 

Consent (62, 96, and 127)

[Groom] I, N., take you N., to be my wife I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.

[Bride] I, N., take you N., to be my husband I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.

– OR –

[Groom] I, N., take you, N., for my lawful wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish until death do us part.

[Bride] I, N., take you, N., for my lawful husband to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish until death do us part.
 

Consent Through Questioning (63, 97, and/128)

[Groom] N., do you take N., to be your wife? Do you promise to be faithful to her in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love her and to honor her all the days of your life?

[I do]

[Bride] N., do you take N., to be your husband? Do you promise to be faithful to him in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love her and to honor him all the days of your life?

[I do]

– OR –

[Groom] N., do you take N. for your lawful wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish until death do you part?

[I do]

[Bride] N., do you take N. for your lawful husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish until death do you part?

[I do]
 

Reception of Consent for all Forms (64, 98, and 129)

May the Lord in his kindness strengthen the consent you have declared before the Church, and graciously bring to fulfillment his blessing within you. What God joins together, let no one put asunder.

– OR –

May the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, the God of Jacob, the God who joined together our first parents in paradise, strengthen and bless in Christ the consent you have declared before the Church, so that what God joins together, no one may put asunder.
 

Blessing and Giving of the Rings and Arras

Blessing of the Rings (66)

May the Lord bless ✠ these rings, which you will give to each other as a sign of love and fidelity. Through Christ our Lord.

Amen
 

Blessing of the Rings (194)

Bless, O Lord, these rings, which we bless ✠ in your name, so that those who wear them may remain entirely faithful to each other, abide in peace and in your will, and live always in mutual charity. Through Christ our Lord.

Amen
 

Blessing of the Rings (195)

Bless ✠ and sanctify your servants in their love, O Lord, and let these rings, a sign of their faithfulness, remind them of their love for one another. Through Christ our Lord.

Amen
 

Giving of the Rings (67A, 100A, 132)

[Husband]  N., receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy spirit.**

[Wife]  N., receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy spirit.**

** When using Form 3, this last sentence may only be added by the bride or groom if they are Christian.
 

Blessing and Giving of the Arras (67B, 100B, 133) [optional]

The exchange of 13 coins at a wedding is a Frankish/Spanish tradition believed to have originated around the 11th century, which is still practiced today in Spanish, Filipino, and Latin American weddings. If you desire this optional rite, please work with your Celebrant.

Bless, ✠ O Lord, these Arras that N. and N. will give to each other and pour over them the abundance of your good gifts.

The groom takes the Arras and handing them to his bride says:

N. receive these Arras as a pledge of God's blessing and a sign of the good gifts we will share.

The bride takes the Arras and handing them to her groom says:

N. receive these Arras as a pledge of God's blessing and a sign of the good gifts we will share.
 

The Universal Prayer

Universal Prayer (216)

Dear brothers and sisters, as we call to mind the special gift of grace and charity by which God has been pleased to crown and consecrate the love of our sister N. and our brother N., let us commend them to the Lord.

That these faithful Christians, N. and N., newly joined in Holy Matrimony, may always enjoy health and well-being, let us pray to the Lord.

[℟] Lord, we ask you, hear our prayer, or
[℟] another appropriate response of the people.

That he will bless their covenant as he chose to sanctify marriage at Cana in Galilee, let us pray to the Lord. [℟]

That they be granted perfect and fruitful love, peace and strength, and that they bear faithful witness to the name of Christian, let us pray to the Lord. [℟]

That the Christian people may grow in virtue day by day and that all who are burdened by any need may receive the help of grace from above, let us pray to the Lord. [℟]

That the grace of the Sacrament will be renewed by the Holy Spirit in all married persons here present, let us pray to the Lord. [℟]

Graciously pour out upon this husband and wife, O Lord, the Spirit of your love, to make them one heart and one soul, so that nothing whatever may divide those you have joined and no harm come to those you have filled with your blessing. Through Christ our Lord.

[Amen]
 

Universal Prayer (217)

Dear brothers and sisters, let us accompany this new family with our prayers, that the mutual love of this couple may grow daily and that God in his kindness will sustain all families throughout the world.

For this bride and groom, and for their well-being as a family, let us pray to the Lord.

[℟] Lord, we ask you, hear our prayer, or
[℟] another appropriate response of the people

For their relatives and friends, and for all who have assisted this couple, let us pray to the Lord. [℟]

For young people preparing to enter Marriage, and for all whom the Lord is calling to another state in life, let us pray to the Lord. [℟]

For all families throughout the world and for lasting peace among all people, let us pray to the Lord. [℟]

For all members of our families who have passed from this world, and for all the departed, let us pray to the Lord. [℟]

For the Church, the holy People of God, and for unity among all Christians, let us pray to the Lord. [℟]

Lord Jesus, who are present in our midst, as N. and N. seal their union, accept our prayer and fill us with your Spirit. Who live and reign for ever and ever.

[Amen]

Note: If Form 1 (Within Mass) is used, the ceremony proceeds from the Universal Prayer to the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Note: If Form 2 (Without Mass) is used with Communion, the ceremony proceeds from the Universal Prayer to the Lord's Prayer in the Liturgy of the Eucharist and exits the Liturgy of the Eucharist after Communion.

Note: If Form 2 (Without Mass) without Communion or Form 3 (Between a Catholic and Catechumen or a non-Christian) is used, the ceremony proceeds from the Universal Prayer to the Blessing and Placing of the Lazo/Veil in the Liturgy of the Eucharist and exits the Liturgy of the Eucharist after the Nuptial Blessing.
 

The Liturgy of the Eucharist

This full Liturgy of the Eucharist is for Form 1, and partially for Forms 2 or 3 as indicated above.
 

Prayer over the Offerings

Prayer over the Offerings (196)

Receive, we pray, O Lord, the offering made on the occasion of this sealing of the sacred bond of Marriage, and, just as your goodness is its origin, may your providence guide its course. Through Christ our Lord.
 

Prayer over the Offerings (197)

Receive in your kindness, Lord, the offerings we bring in gladness before you, and in your fatherly love watch over those you have joined in a sacramental covenant. Through Christ our Lord.
 

Prayer over the Offerings (198)

Show favor to our supplications, O Lord, and receive with a kindly countenance the oblations we offer for these your servants, joined now in a holy covenant, that through these mysteries they may be strengthened in love for one another and for you. Through Christ our Lord.
 

Prefaces

Preface (199): The dignity of the Marriage covenant

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God.

For you have forged the covenant of Marriage as a sweet yoke of harmony and an unbreakable bond of peace, so that the chaste and fruitful love of holy Matrimony may serve to increase the children you adopt as your own.

By your providence and grace, O Lord, you accomplish the wonder of this twofold design: that, while the birth of children brings beauty to the world, their rebirth in Baptism gives increase to the Church, through Crhist our Lord.

Through him, with the Angels and all the Saints, we sing the hymn of your praise, as without end we acclaim:
 

Preface (200): The great Sacrament of Matrimony

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God, Through Christ our Lord.

For in him you have made a new covenant with your people, so that as you have redeemed man and woman by the mystery of Christ's Death and Resurrection, so in Christ you might make them partakers of divine nature and joint heirs with him of heavenly glory.

In the union of husband and wife you give a sign of Christ's loving gift of grace, so that the Sacrament we celebrate might draw us back more deeply into the wondrous design of your love.

And so, with the Angels and all the Saints, we praise you, and without end we acclaim:
 

Preface (201): Matrimony as a sign of divine love

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God.

For you willed that the human race, created by the gift of your goodness, should be raised to such high dignity that in the union of husband and wife you might bestow a true image of your love.

For those you created out of charity you call to the law of charity without ceasing and grant them a share in your eternal charity. And so, the Sacrament of holy Matrimony, as the abiding sign of your own love, consecrates the love of man and woman, through Christ our Lord.

Through him, with the Angels and all the Saints, we sing the hymn of your praise, as without end we acclaim:
 

The Blessing & Placing of the Lazo/Veil and The Nuptial Blessing

The wrapping of the bride and groom in a figure eight cord, lazo, is believed to have originated in 7th century Spain. In the Catholic Church it is most often a large rosary or a cord adorned by a rosary, which is still practiced today in Spanish, Filipino, and Latin American weddings. If you desire this optional rite, please work with your Celebrant.

The lazo may have been placed prior to this time according to custom, if not, and it is now convenient to do so, it may be placed at this time.

If a lazo is not placed, but a veil is to be placed, it is placed over the head of the wife and the shoulders of the husband, thus symbolizing the bond that unites them. Some cultures may include both a lazo and a veil.

Bless, O Lord, this lazo (or: this veil) a symbol of the indissoluble union that N. and N. have established from this day forward before you and with your help.
 

Nuptial Blessing

 

Nuptial Blessing (208/209), Form 1 only

Invitation. Let us humbly invoke by our prayers, dear brothers and sisters, God's blessing upon this bride and groom, that in his kindness he may favor with his help those on whom he has bestowed the Sacrament of Matrimony.

Blessing. Holy Father, maker of the whole world, who created man and woman in your own image and willed that their union be crowned with your blessing, we humbly beseech you for these your servants, who are joined today in the Sacrament of Matrimony.

May your abundant blessing, Lord, come down upon this bride, N., and upon N., her companion for life, and may the power of your Holy Spirit set their hearts aflame from on high, so that, living out together the gift of Matrimony, they may (**adorn their family with children and) enrich the Church.

**May be omitted if circumstances suggest this, for example if the couple is advanced in years

In happiness may they praise you, O Lord, in sorrow may they seek you out; may they have the joy of your presence to assist them in their toil, and know that you are near to comfort them in their need; let them pray to you in the holy assembly and bear witness to you in the world, and after a happy old age, together with the circle of friends that surrounds them, may they come to the Kingdom of Heaven. Through Christ our Lord.
 

Nuptial Blessing (73/74 and 104/105), Forms 1 or 2

Invitation.  Form 1 (73):  Dear brothers and sisters, let us humbly pray to the Lord that on these his servants, now married in Christ, he may mercifully pour out the blessing of his grace and make of one heart in love (by the Sacrament of Christ's Body and Blood)** those he has joined by a holy covenant.

**if either or both spouses will not be receiving Communion, omit these words

Form 2 (104):  Now let us humbly invoke God's blessing upon this bride and groom, that in his kindness he may favor with his help those on whom he has bestowed the Sacrament of Matrimony.

Blessing.  Forms 1 & 2 (74 & 105):  O God, who by your mighty power created all things out of nothing, and, when you had set in place the beginnings of the universe, formed man and woman in your own image, making the woman an inseparable helpmate to the man, that they might no longer be two, but one flesh, and taught that what you were pleased to make one must never be divided;

O God, who consecrated the bond of Marriage by so great a mystery that in the wedding covenant you foreshadowed the Sacrament of Christ and his Church;

O God, by whom woman is joined to man and the companionship they had in the beginning is endowed with the one blessing not forfeited by original sin nor washed away by the flood.

Look now with favor on these your servants, joined together in Marriage, who ask to be strengthened by your blessing. Send down on them the grace of the Holy Spirit and pour your love into their hearts, that they may remain faithful in the Marriage covenant.

May the grace of love and peace abide in your daughter N., and let her always follow the example of those holy women whose praises are sung in the Scriptures.

May her husband entrust his heart to her, so that, acknowledging her as his equal and his joint heir to the life of grace, he may show her due honor and cherish her always with the love that Christ has for his Church.

And now, Lord, we implore you: may these your servants hold fast to the faith and keep your commandments; made one in the flesh, may they be blameless in all they do; and with the strength that comes from the Gospel, may they bear true witness to Christ before all; (may they be blessed with children, and prove themselves virtuous parents, who live to see their children's children).**

And grant that, reaching at last together the fullness of years for which they hope, they may come to the life of the blessed in the Kingdom of Heaven. Through Christ our Lord.

** If conditions dictate, the text in parenthesis may be omitted, as for an elderly couple.
 

Nuptial Blessing (206/207), Forms 1 or 2

Invitation. Let us pray to the Lord for this bride and groom, who come to the altar as they begin their married life, that (partaking of the Body and Blood of Christ)** they may always be bound together by love for one another.

**if either or both spouses will not be receiving Communion, omit these words.

Blessing. Holy Father, who formed man in your own image, male and female you created them, so that as husband and wife, united in body and heart, they might fulfill their calling in the world.

O god, who, to reveal the great design you formed in your love, willed that the love of spouses for each other should foreshadow the covenant you graciously made with your people, so that, by fulfillment of the sacramental sign, the mystical marriage of Christ with his Church might become manifest in the union of husband and wife among your faithful;

Graciously stretch out your right hand over these your servants (N. and N.), we pray, and pour into their hearts the power of the Holy Spirit.

Grant, O Lord, that, as they enter upon this sacramental union, they may share with one another the gifts of your love and, by being for each other a sign of your presence, become one heart and one mind.

May they also sustain, O Lord, by their deeds the home they are forming (**and prepare their children to become members of your heavenly household by raising them in the way of the Gospel).

Graciously crown with your blessings your daughter N., so that by being a good wife (**and mother), she may bring warmth to her home with a love that is pure and adorn it with welcoming graciousness.

Bestow a heavenly blessing also, O Lord, on N., your servant, that he may be a worthy, good and faithful husband (**and a provident father).

Grant, holy Father, that, desiring to approach your table as a couple joined in Marriage in your presence, they may one day have the joy of taking part in your great banquet in heaven. Through Christ our Lord.

** If conditions dictate, the text in parenthesis may be omitted, as for an elderly couple.
 

Nuptial Blessing (138/139), Form 3 only

Invitation. Now let us humbly invoke God's blessing upon this bride and groom, that in his kindness he may favor with his help those on whom he has bestowed the bond of Marriage.

Blessing. Holy Father, maker of the whole world, who created man and woman in your own image and willed that their union be crowned with your blessing, we humbly beseech you for these your servants, who are joined today in the Marriage covenant.

May your abundant blessing, Lord, come down upon this bride, N., and upon N., her companion for life, and may the power of your Holy Spirit set their hearts aflame from on high, so that, living out together the gift of Matrimony, they may be known for the integrity of their conduct (**and be recognized as virtuous parents).

In happiness may they praise you, O Lord, in sorrow may they seek you out; may they have the joy of your presence to assist them in their toil, and know that you are near to comfort them in their need; and after a happy old age, together with the circle of friends that surrounds them, may they come to the Kingdom of Heaven. Through Christ our Lord.

** If conditions dictate, the text in parenthesis may be omitted, as for an elderly couple.
 

Nuptial Blessing Alternate (140), All Forms

Note:  If, because of circumstances, the Nuptial blessing is omitted, this prayer is spoken over the bride and bridegroom.

Be attentive to our prayers, O Lord, and in your kindness uphold what you have established for the increase of the human race, so that the union you have created may be kept safe by your assistance. Through Christ our Lord.

Amen.
 

Prayer after Communion

Prayer after Communion (210).

By the power of this sacrifice, O Lord, accompany with your loving favor what in your providence you have instituted, so as to make of one heart in love those you have already joined in this holy union (and replenished with the one Bread and the one Chalice). Through Christ our Lord.
 

Prayer after Communion (211).

Having been made partakers at your table, we pray, O Lord, that those who are united by the Sacrament of Marriage may always hold fast to you and proclaim your name to the world. Through Christ our Lord.
 

Prayer after Communion (212).

Grant, we pray, almighty God, that the power of the Sacrament we have received may find growth in these your servants and that the effects of the sacrifice we have offered may be felt by us all. Through Christ our Lord.
 

Presentation of Flowers to the Blessed Virgin Mary

If the Bride and Groom so choose, it is a tradition at this time for the couple to visit the Marian alter or shrine and lay flowers at the statue of the Virgin Mary as a showing of sincere devotion to Mary, the Mother of the Lord.
 

Concluding Rites

Blessing at the end of the Celebration

Final Blessing (213).

May God the eternal Father keep you of one heart in love for one another, that the peace of Christ may dwell in you and abide always in your home. ℟. Amen.

May you be blessed in your children, have solace in your friends and enjoy true peace with everyone. ℟. Amen.

May you be witnesses in the world to God's charity, so that the afflicted and needy who have known your kindness may one day receive you thankfully into the eternal dwelling of God. ℟. Amen.

And may almighty God bless all of you, who are gathered here, the Father, and the Son, ✠ and the Holy Spirit. ℟. Amen.
 

Final Blessing (214).

May God the all-powerful Father grant you his joy and bless you in your children. ℟. Amen.

May the Only Begotten Son of God stand by you with compassion in good times and in bad. ℟. Amen.

May the Holy Spirit of God always pour forth love into your hearts. ℟. Amen.

And may almighty God bless all of you, who are gathered here, the Father, and the Son, ✠ and the Holy Spirit. ℟. Amen.
 

Final Blessing (215).

May the Lord Jesus, who graced the marriage at Cana by his presence, bless you and your loved ones. ℟. Amen.

May he, who loved the Church to the end, unceasingly pour his love into your hearts. ℟. Amen.

May the Lord grant that, bearing witness to faith in his Resurrection, you may await with joy the blessed hope to come. ℟. Amen.

And may almighty God bless all of you, who are gathered here, the Father, and the Son, ✠ and the Holy Spirit. ℟. Amen.
 

Final Blessing (106 and 141): When Holy Communion is not distributed (Forms 2 & 3)

May almighty God bless all of you, who are gathered here, the Father, and the Son, ✠ and the Holy Spirit.

Amen.