Catholic Wedding Q&A

Can I have a Catholic wedding even if I do not attend Mass?

Probably, although your pastor may question your readiness to receive the sacrament of matrimony if receiving the sacrament of the Eucharist is not important to you. The Eucharist is the "source and summit" of Christian life; all the other sacraments are bound up with it (Catechism 1324).

All Catholics have a right to receive the sacraments, unless there is some reason that makes it impossible for them to do so. It is your pastor's responsibility to ensure that you are able to receive the sacrament of marriage. Since the essence of the sacrament is the consent to be married that the bride and the groom exchange in the wedding vows, it is essential that both persons understand what that exchange of consent means. The question your pastor will have to answer is whether your reasons for not participating in the Mass affect your ability to consent to sacramental marriage.

If being married in the Church is really important to you, your pastor will probably encourage you to begin receiving the Eucharist regularly as part of your preparation for marriage. If you have been away from the Church for an extended period of time, you may be invited to attend some adult faith formation classes as well.

For more information

What are the rules and requirements for a valid Catholic wedding?

Can we get married in the Catholic Church if we are living together (cohabiting)?