All couples wishing to celebrate this sacrament are to notify the parish at least six months prior to their proposed date. This will allow sufficient time for the couple to attend the pre-marriage programs and to prepare a proper celebration of the sacrament. Only after the process has begun will the date be entered as definite in the parish calendar. The Church presumes that at least one partner in the marriage is a practicing Catholic. The parish also has its own guidelines that must be followed.

From a valid marriage there arises between the spouses a bond which of its own nature is permanent and exclusive. Moreover, in Christian marriage the spouses are by a special sacrament strengthened and, as it were, consecrated for the duties and the dignity of their state.

— Code of Canon Law, 1124