Marriage in the Catholic Church

“God who is love and who created man and woman for love has called them to love. By creating man and woman he called them to an intimate communion of life and of love in marriage: “So that they are no longer two, but one flesh” (Matthew 19:6). God said to them in blessing “Be fruitful and multiply” (Genesis 1:28).

Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church 337

The Catholic Church views marriage as a beautiful, sacred institution that reflects the love within the Trinity, and God’s relationship to the Church. God calls men and women to marriage, where they find their purpose in loving God and each other. In a Catholic wedding, the couple promises to love and honour each other for the rest of their lives. They also promise to be open to receiving children from God, and raising them in the faith.

The Catholic Diocese of Rockhampton welcomes couples to celebrate their marriages in our parish churches. Our priests will make sure that your special day goes smoothly and with God’s blessings to begin your married life together.

For couples wishing to be married in the Catholic Church, the first step is to contact your local parish. You can find their contact details on our Parishes & Regions page.

Marriage Preparation

As well as the practical preparations for the wedding day, couples are invited to prepare themselves spiritually and emotionally for their future together through a marriage preparation course.

There are two approved courses offered in the Catholic Diocese of Rockhampton:

SmartLoving Engaged is an online marriage preparation course, that can be completed from home at your own pace. This course also offers an option to connect with a married couple from your parish who can accompany you through the course and answer any questions you may have.

Centacare also offer marriage preparation seminars called Hand in Hand, which you can attend at your local Centacare location.

If you have any questions about marriage in the Catholic Church then please contact us at marriage@rok.catholic.net.au.