Since marriage is both a sacrament of the Church and a legal contract, both Church and state have laws and policies concerning marriage. (State requirements can be obtained from the Clerk of Court Office.) Engaged couples should contact one of the priests or deacons at least six months in advance; a year in advance is not too soon. No definite plans for a specific date should be made before this contact.
Preparation for marriage involves the couple's participation in a marriage preparation program, the taking and reviewing of an inventory of communication skills and compatibility, preparing necessary documentation, and planning the wedding ceremony with the priest or deacon.