St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church at 834 S. Orange Blossom Tr., Apopka, FL 32703-6560 US - Matrimony

The word “sacrament” literally means a sacred space, time, or experience with the Risen Christ.

The Catholic Church defines the union of a man and a woman in marriage as a covenantal relationship: one that is for life between two people of equal status and a bond that can never be broken.

As a Sacrament, marriage must be a free decision by both parties and cannot be “forced” in any way. Preparation for Holy Matrimony has to accomplish two tasks: 1) To investigate a couple’s

freedom to marry; and 2) To make sure each of the parties are entering into the marriage with the proper intentions.

These intentions are:

.. To enter into a marriage that is for life

.. To remain faithful to your spouse

.. To give your spouse the right to have children

Persons entering into marriage should be at least nineteen (19) years of age (if under 19, special permission needs to be given), and at least one should be a practicing Roman Catholic.

Marriage Preparation Process

At least six months in duration. Consists of three steps:

.. Investigation of freedom to marry

.. Instruction on the nature of the Sacrament

.. Planning of the marriage ceremony

Documents Needed

.. Updated baptismal certificate (issued within the last six months or less) for Catholic parties and proof of baptism for Non-Catholics who have been baptized

.. Witness forms (2 for each party) verifying freedom to marry and proper intentions

.. Legally certified copy of marriage license (for those already civilly married)

.. Annulment decrees (for those previously married)

Requirements for Completion of Preparation Process

.. FOCCUS instrument and at least three (3) sessions with FOCCUS couple

.. Pre-Cana Day or Engaged Encounter workshop (alternative workshops may be required depending on couple’s circumstances)

Times for Marriage

The Sacrament of Marriage is usually celebrated at St. Francis on Saturdays at 10am, 12pm, or 2pm.

Rehearsals are generally scheduled the evening before at 6pm or 7pm.

Marriage License

Upon completion of the preparation process, a certificate will be issued that is to be given to the Clerk of Courts in the county where the marriage will take place. The State of Florida then gives a discount on the license fee and also waives the normal three-day waiting period.

For more information with regard to state regulations, contact the nearest County Clerk of Courts office.

The following are NOT permitted during marriage ceremonies:

.. Throwing birdseed or rice

.. The use of an aisle runner

.. Flowers on top of the altar

.. Additional lighting fixtures

.. Food items or beverages

Photographers and videographers should be unobtrusive and not interfere with the wedding ceremony. They are not permitted in the altar area.

Pew decorations are permitted, but nothing may be pinned or taped to the pews or chairs.

All decorations are to be removed immediately following the ceremony.

Liturgical Colors

In planning the colors for the wedding ceremony, please keep in mind the following liturgical seasons and associated colors.

.. Advent - Purple or purplish blue

.. Christmas - White or gold

.. Lent - Purple

.. Ordinary Time - Green

Music

As with all liturgical events, music is an integral part of the liturgy. The Director of Liturgical Music has the

responsibility to assist all couples in the planning of their music selections for their wedding ceremony.

The following are fees associated with music (payable to the Director of Liturgical Music 30 days in advance of wedding date):

.. Basic Fee: $150.00

.. Extra musician:

.. Additional rehearsal for outside soloist:

Church Fees

There is no charge for the use of the Church for a couple registered at St. Francis, nor is there a fee for the services of a priest or deacon witnessing the ceremony.

Donations to the Church are appreciated.

However, a fee of $250.00 (payable at least 30 days prior to the wedding date) will be charged for those not registered.