Congratulations! We look forward to celebrating with you!
Sacred Scripture begins with the creation and union of man and woman and ends with “the wedding feast of the Lamb” (Rev 19:7, 9). Scripture often refers to marriage, its origin and purpose, the meaning God gave to it, and its renewal in the covenant made by Jesus with his Church. Man and woman were created for each other.
By their marriage, the couple witnesses Christ’s spousal love for the Church. One of the Nuptial Blessings in the liturgical celebration of marriage refers to this in saying, “Father, you have made the union of man and wife so holy a mystery that it symbolizes the marriage of Christ and his Church.”
The Sacrament of Marriage is a covenant, which is more than a contract. Covenant always expresses a relationship between persons. The marriage covenant refers to the relationship between the husband and wife, a permanent union of persons capable of knowing and loving each other and God. The celebration of marriage is also a liturgical act, appropriately held in a public liturgy at church. Catholics are urged to celebrate their marriage within the Eucharistic Liturgy.
~from the United States Catholic Catechism for Adults
Marriages at Sacred Heart Church require at least 6 months preparation.
Fr. Bruce Ludeke is excited to help you prepare for your marriage through a series of sessions with you and your future spouse. In addition, the following must be completed:
- Fully Engaged Retreat held in parishes throughout the Diocese of Rockford
- Diocesan Natural Family Planning course also held throughout the Diocese in different parishes throughout the year and
- Necessary paperwork required by the Rockford Diocese.
Please see The Life and Family Evangelization Office Website for more information, dates and registration.
Marriages at Sacred Heart Church being performed by a priest/deacon other than Fr. Bruce will require the date being scheduled through Fr. Bruce and the priest to preside the marriage. Necessary approval of the priest as required by the Rockford Diocese and necessary paperwork and preparation will need to be provided by the presiding priest or deacon if not being done by Fr. Bruce.
Marriages can be scheduled for available Saturdays in the Church no later than 2:30 pm.
Marriage Booklets with Sacred Heart Church guidelines are available through the Director of Music and Liturgy by arrangement or in the parish office.
For your wedding Mass you may choose your readings:
Old Testament
New Testament
Gospel
To get the process started, click this link https://www.osvhub.com/sacred-heart-sterling/forms/wedding-fees fill out the form and submit it to reserve your wedding day!
