My Dear Friends:
Congratulations on your recent engagement! Your intention to enter the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony is a source of joy for you, your family and friends and the entire Church community.
The Catholic Church believes that marriage, as designed by God and raised to a level of a sacrament by Jesus Christ, is a lifetime commitment of life and love between one man and one woman. When two people enter into the sacrament of Matrimony, therefore, they promise to love one another as God has loved us – in a way that is permanent, faithful, creative and holy. These characteristics of Christian marriage make it truly blessed – a sacrament – a sign of God’s love for His people and Christ’s love for the Church.
As you prepare for marriage there will probably be many arrangements and details that will consume your time and attention. At the same time, please don’t neglect the most important aspect of your marriage, the spiritual aspect. It is important that you spend time in prayer, that you receive the sacraments, and that you work very closely with your parish priest or pastoral associate in planning all the details of your marriage. In particular, it is essential that you register for pre-marriage instructions as soon as possible and not wait until the last moment. You cannot be married in the Church without sufficient preparation for the Sacrament!
At this important and beautiful time in your life, please be assure of a special remembrance in my prayers. May your wedding be joyful and memorable. May your marriage be faithful and holy, a true inspiration to the Christian community. And may you always be motivated to share your gifts and talents, your time and treasure, with others. We need you!
Sincerely yours,
Thomas J. Tobin
Bishop of Providence
