WHAT IS MARRIAGE?

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. A 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. 

Couples planning to be married, please make an appointment with Father Steven Fauser, the Pastor AT LEAST 9 months prior to any desired wedding date.

Engaged Encounter Weekends
This intense weekend gives couples who are planning to marry the opportunity to communicate with each other—individually, honestly, and intensively—about their prospective lives together: their strengths and weaknesses; desires, ambitions, and goals; their attitudes about money, sex, children, and family; and their roles in the Church and in society. Cost is $400 per couple (Includes overnight lodging, meals, and materials). Registration closes two weeks prior to the weekend course. Reservations are limited to 10 couples per weekend.

The registration fee is transferable but non-refundable. However, no couple should let financial concerns prevent them from making an Engaged Encounter weekend. Payment arrangements can be made on an individual basis if the couple or their parish cannot afford the expense.

Download 2023 Engaged Encounter Brochure
2023 Engaged Encounter Weekends:

April 14-16, May 5-7 & September 22-24

Learn more or register online at https://www.hbgdiocese.org/cee, call (717) 657-4804 ext. 317 or email [email protected].