Please note: The marriage policy of the Diocese of Phoenix requires that you start your arrangements six months before your intended wedding date.

A Word About Our Preparation Process

We believe it is our responsibility as your faith community to assist you in as many ways as we can to be successful in your marriage relationship. Research shows that couples who participate in a preparation process, including communication and family of origin exploration, have fewer communication difficulties in the first five years of their marriages. After being involved in such preparation processes, couples are also more willing to seek outside help with marital difficulties or participate in enrichment activities later on in their marriages.

That is why our preparation process includes all of these things - a relationship inventory, a couples communication course, mentor couples, and opportunities to explore your family or origin, sexuality, and other topics using "For Better and For Ever."

St. Patrick's preparation process may seem more extensive than that of other churches. It probably is. We want to spend quality time with you to facilitate your FOCCUS instrument as you explore your relationship further. Mentor couples will get to know you to help you feel comfortable with the Community of St. Patrick. The will meet with you at least five times to discuss indepth exploration of your families of origin and other pertinent topics in the book "For Better and For Ever."

Because it has to do with the rest of your lives, we have a strong commitment to your marriage preparation and this very special moment in your lives.

Please call the parish office at 480-998-3843 to make an appointment with the pastor. You are eligible to be married at St. Patrick if either the bride or the groom lives within the parish boundaries, or your parents are registered members of the parish. During your preparation period, you are expected to attend mass each Sunday and participate as members of the parish. If you do this, your wedding day will truly be a celebration of the entire St. Patrick community, as well as that of your family and special friends. With Christ as the center of your relationship, we as a parish can partake in welcoming you and helping you start your sacramental life together.

When you make your first phone call, only the appointment with the pastor will be set. We do not set wedding dates or times until the first interview.

Wedding dates cannot be set by phone, and the church cannot be "reserved" for a particular time until after the first interview.

During the interview, the pastor will introduce you to the marriage preparation process at St. Patrick. At this meeting, you will choose your wedding date and rehearsal date. You will also be asked to schedule a meeting with the pastoral associate.

Marriage Preparation brochures are available in the Church Narthex and in the Parish Office. For more information on marriage preparation, call Gerry Blakeman at 480-998-3843 ext. 103.