Marriage Preparation

Priest Friends or Relatives

We are happy to allow a relative or a close friend who is a priest or deacon to witness your marriage. If one party is not Catholic, this person is free to invite a minister to be present and involved in the ceremony. Please consult a priest prior to the invitation. Priests residing outside of Massachusetts must seek permission from the Office of the Secretary of State to legally perform the wedding in this state.

For information regarding assistance in obtaining a Certificate of Authorization from the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth, please contact:

Division of Public Records
Secretary of the Commonwealth
One Ashburton Place, Room 1719
Boston, MA 02108
617.727.2836

If you are having your paperwork prepared by your own priest, all information must be received at the St. Mary's Parish Office at least 30 days before the wedding date. Please contact Patti Phillips for further information regarding the requirements at 508.339.2981 or email: office@stmarymans.org

Daily Prayer for Marriage

Heavenly Father,
through the intercession of the Holy Family,
Help us treasure the gift of marriage that
reflects the love of Christ for the Church,
where the self-giving love
of husband and wife
unites them more perfectly and
cooperates in your plan for
new life created in your image.

Help us support men and women
in their vocation of marriage,
especially in difficult times when
they join their sufferings to the Cross.

Help us uphold the instution of marriage
in our society as the place where
love is nurtured and family life begins.

Help us acknowledge that our future
depends on this love and on your
providential care for us. Amen