About Marriage…
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What is a Catholic Marriage?
A Catholic marriage is a sacramental bond when it is contracted between a baptized man and a baptized woman, one or both of whom is Catholic. A Catholic marriage is simply a bond when contracted between a Catholic and a non-baptized person.
A Catholic marriage is a covenant, implying that a relationship to God, through Jesus Christ, exists with and between both husband and wife. A Catholic marriage is ordinarily witnessed by a deacon, a priest, or a bishop, and two other witnesses.
A civil marriage does not imply this relationship to God and is simply a contract. A Justice of the Peace witnesses a civil marriage. Whether Catholic or civil, an Ontario marriage license must be obtained from the government prior to the wedding.
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Basic Requirements
If you are an engaged couple and are thinking of getting married at St. Basil’s, you must contact a priest at St. Basil’s at least one year before the your wedding date for marriage preparation. Please note that we require that these two criteria be satisfied:
At least one of you must be Catholic.
You should live in the immediate area, or have a previous connection to the parish or the University. The map below outlines our parish boundaries.
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Basic Marriage Preparation at St. Basil’s
Marriage preparation consists of:
An initial meeting and interview with a priest before the wedding date is set.
Each baptized person must provide a copy, that is no more than six months old, of their baptismal certificate with all notations.
Completion of the marriage preparation program.
Your wedding coordinator will work with you on:
The wedding liturgy preparation.
The rehearsal shortly before the wedding date.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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A: The process begins by completing the below Marriage Inquiry form. Afterwards, a member of the parish staff will reach out to you to discuss your desire to marry at St. Basil’s and will explain the next steps.
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A: Diocesan policy requires that you start the process at least one year before the wedding date. We also ask that one of you register as a parishioner at the parish office.
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A: The process begins with an initial meeting with a our Pastor. To schedule this meeting, please call the parish office at 416 926-7110.
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A: At least one or both of you must be a baptized Catholic. When you meet with the priest, it is helpful to bring a copy of one or both baptism certificates. All other materials required will be given to you when you meet with the priest.
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A: As each case is different, it is best to call the office. If possible, it is always good when former students come back to celebrate their life with us.
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A: Each couple has a different set of needs so your preparation will be tailored to you. However, basic requirements include one to two meetings with the priest; a formal marriage preparation program (a few options will be discussed in your initial meeting); a meeting to plan the music for your wedding; and finally, a meeting with a parish wedding coordinator.
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A: We are happy to help. The best thing to do is schedule an appointment with the priest as every case is different.
Get in touch.
Get in touch with our Parish Office to discuss Marriage at St. Basil’s!
Parish Boundaries: