In the midst of our society’s great misunderstandings of the nature of marriage, St. Helen Parish takes very seriously its responsibility to adequately assist couples who wish to be married in our church to prepare not just for their wedding day but for their whole married life together. For this reason, engaged couples should contact the Rectory at least ONE YEAR in advance of the desired date. Please call (718) 738-1616 for an appointment for the initial interview. Although couples generally have a desired date in mind, they should delay booking a venue for the reception until they have met with a priest or deacon.
Baptized Catholics are obliged to observe the Church’s laws regarding marriage. The priests of St. Helen are more than willing to discuss these obligations with those considering marriage or those who have been married civilly who wish to have their marriages recognized by the Church.
CHURCH DOCUMENTS REGARDING MARRIAGE
THE CATECHISM OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH
Description of the Sacrament of Matrimony
THE CATECHISM OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH
On human sexuality and the love of husband and wife
HUMANAE VITAE – ENCYCLICAL of POPE PAUL VI
A presentation of the Church’s teaching on artifical birth control. Published in 1968.
FAMILIARIS CONSORTIO – APOSTOLIC EXHORTATION OF POPE JOHN PAUL II
On the role of the Christian family in the modern world
FAMILY, MARRIAGE AND “DE FACTO” UNIONS
From the Pontifical Council for the Family