Thank you, dear couples, for the hope you bring in preparing for your sacramental marriage. This hope that you carry, to love one another as Christ loves the Church, is a grace given by God. It is a personal call that He has for you, to be a sign of His love for others, together.
As you prepare to become this sign, through God’s grace, the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Raleigh is here to guide you through this period of discernment and formation. We offer a process of marriage preparation that is designed to accompany you in your intention to enter into sacramental marriage. Each part of this process is outlined in this brochure, to guide you through the steps of a rewarding marriage preparation experience.
At times, the world might suggest that the decision to marry is of little significance, or may cause you to lose hope in the possibility of a lifelong joy filled marriage. However, the Church will remain by your side throughout your lifetime together as husband and wife, affirming that “with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26).
Please know that I keep each of you and your intention to love as God loves, in my prayers.
Through the intercession of Mary our Mother and Saint Joseph, may their Son and our Lord Jesus help us to live as God’s holy family each day.
Luis Rafael Zarama
Bishop of Raleigh