Weddings at St Michael’s Cathedral
We welcome your enquiry about getting married at St Michael’s Cathedral. To assist your planning of this incredibly special and important day the following information:
CELEBRANT
You may choose and contact a local priest or deacon whom you would like to have as your celebrant, otherwise we will allocate one for you. This should be done at least six months before the wedding to clarify that he will be available on the day you have chosen, and to allow ample time for meeting with him to complete the necessary paperwork and to make the appropriate arrangements for your wedding. In special circumstances you may choose a priest from outside our parish, you need to let us know as soon as possible.
DONATION TO PARISH
The parish does not charge a set fee for weddings but does recommend a minimum donation of $350. This covers the various expenses and fees that the Church has to pay in relation to registering your marriage with the Australian government and it also contributes to keeping St Michael’s well maintained and in pristine condition. This should be given to the parish secretary or priest at least one month after receiving a letter.
DONATION TO PRIEST
It is also appropriate to give a donation to the priest on the day of the wedding. Likewise, a celebrant fee of $175.00 (minimum) is payable through the Parish Office. All may be arranged through the Parish Secretary.
This forms a significant part of his stipend, and would partly reflect the hours given in preparation, both with you and behind the scenes. Thank you for your understanding and generosity.
MARRIAGE PREPARATION COURSE
Preparation for your wedding day is exciting and important, but preparation for your whole life together as a married couple is even more important. Like you, we want your marriage to be a great success, so all couples must attend pre-marriage sacramental instructions. The priest or deacon who is marrying you is responsible for coordinating your marriage preparation. If you are being prepared by a priest from the cathedral parish it will be necessary for you to fulfill the following:
Firstly, you will need to complete an online course called “Smart loving”. You may complete the self-guided course. To register for this, you will need your priests email address. Please see the smart loving brochure for how to register and start this course.
Secondly, you will need to meet with your priest for a minimum of six times to properly plan and prepare for your marriage and wedding day.
Thirdly, you need to provide evidence of date & place of birth & photo identification- either a Passport only or your Birth Certificates & photo identification (drivers’ license) and a recent copy (no older than six months) of your Baptismal Certificates if you were Baptised outside of St Michael’s Cathedral. Then arrange a meeting with the priest you have asked to do your wedding to begin the sacramental preparations. Please be aware that the best spiritual preparation for your wedding is through personal prayer, regular Confession, and weekly Mass attendance. Weekly Confessions: Monday to Friday 12:00pm -12.30pm & Saturdays 11.00am-12.00pm. Masses: Saturdays 5pm, Sundays 8am, 10am & 5:30pm.
CHURCH FLOWERS AND DECORATIONS
These are the responsibility of the couple, unless you are happy to use the weekend parish flowers. If you arrange your own flowers, it is customary to leave some of them in the church afterwards, but not necessary. Please do not throw confetti or rice on the church grounds.
PREPARING THE CEREMONY
A church wedding is a liturgical celebration; it is part of the public worship of the Church. It has a structure that must be observed. Within this structure there is room for some personal choices, but do not start preparing the ceremony until you have met with the priest. He will guide you in the selection of prayers and Bible readings for your wedding. The priest will supply you with all the information you need to simplify your preparations.
SACRED MUSIC
All music chosen for your wedding must be appropriate for a public act of liturgical worship in the church. It needs to be of a religious nature and reflect the sacred nature of marriage. Secular or popular music is appropriate for use at the reception but may not be used in the church. Classical music may be used. The priest can assist you in your choice of music and may assist you to find a musician, organist and vocalist if you wish.
Organists
Bec Griffin: 0455 337 445
Mega Liesman: 0404 253 166
Vocalist
Rosemary De Battista: 0481 359 640
ARRIVAL TIME
It is a matter of courtesy to your guests and the priest that you arrive on time. It is neither fashionable nor tradition to arrive late. Arrange to leave home in plenty of time so that you can relax and enjoy your wedding. It’s the only one you get!
PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEOS
Please remember that these should be unobtrusive and done in a dignified and respectful manner. Please inform your photographer to consult the priest before the ceremony.
BOOKLETS
If you wish to prepare a wedding booklet for your guests, the priest can supply you with all the information you will need to compile it. The parish of St Michael’s Cathedral looks forward to being a part of your wedding. We trust that this information will free you from the burden of needless stress and anxiety as you prepare for your wedding ceremony and for your married life together. We shall keep you in our prayers and ask God’s blessings for you as you embark upon your life together as husband and wife. May God bless you.
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