Preparation

Pre-Marriage Programmes

Sometimes couples spend a great deal of time and money on a wedding day, which lasts a few hours, and they complacently leave to chance the outcome of their marriage, which is expected to last a lifetime.

Because of the importance the church places on marriage, it is highly recommended that adequate time be given to reflect on major issues that are a part of married life. In order to facilitate an objective reflection, couples are strongly encouraged to attend a Marriage Preparation Programme.

Realistic "marriage preparation" does not try to teach people all about marriage so that, when the time comes, they will have all the answers to any problems. Rather, it aids couples in the continued growth of their interpersonal communication. Information on what programmes are available can be obtained from the priest who will be presiding at your wedding.

Notice of Intended Marriage and Documentation

At least six months notice is normally required of those intending to celebrate marriage here at St. Finbar's. In addition, the couple must supply full copies of their birth certificates (or passports including any other relevant citizenship documentation) and recent copies of their baptism certificates. Photocopies of the original certificate is sufficient for any non-Catholic. These are to be given to the celebrant at your wedding.

Natural Family Planning

If you would like information concerning this natural approach to Family Planning, please contact Phil Watkins via the parish office.

Wedding Practice

Although it is increasingly unpopular to spoil the experience of the wedding day by having a practice, it is possible to book a practice through the parish office. If it is to take place outside of office hours (9:00am - 4:00pm), then the services of a Caretaker to open and close the church are required. A suggested fee of $25 is traditionally given to the caretaker for his/her time.

The Wedding

Wedding Music

It is important that you discuss the music you wish to have for your ceremony with the Celebrant of your wedding. If you wish to obtain the services of a parish organist, please contact wither Mr. Jim Gormly or Mr. Michael Taylor via the parish office. Other parish musicians and singers may also be available.

Flowers

We have florists within our parish who offer their services in advising on the purchase of flowers and who assist in the setting up of any floral arrangements. The flowers normally remain in the church as a gift of the couple to the parish community.
Please contact the Wedding Coordinator, Mrs. Olive O'Neil, via the parish office one month prior to the date of your wedding. Even if you have other arrangements about flowers, please contact Mrs. O'Neil.

Photographers and Video Operators

In a church, photographers and video operators should be unobtrusive. Additional lighting is not required in St. Finbar's church. Also, out of respect for all concerned, couples are requested to ask their guests not to use flashlights in church.

Confetti, Rice, etc.

Couples are requested to remind their guests not to litter the church and the grounds by throwing rice, flower petals or paper confetti.

Offerings: Celebrant, Church, Caretaker, Flowers, Musicians

It is traditional and recommended that you offer a donation to the celebrant of your wedding.
Furthermore, if you are coming to St. Finbar's you are asked to make a $350.00 donation to cover costs to the parish associated with the preparation and celebration of your wedding. This amount includes a $50.00 non-refundable Booking Fee paid at the time of the confirmation of the date and time of your wedding. The remainder normally should be sent to the parish office one month prior to the wedding day.
If a caretaker is required to open and close the church, a separate fee of $25.00 should be paid to him/her. Musicians and/or singers and the cost of the flowers are a matter between the couple and the people concerned.

Finally, if you would like to discuss any of the above matters, please feel free to contact the parish office.