St. Michael’s by-the-Sea

The bond and covenant of marriage was established by God in creation, and our Lord Jesus Christ adorned this manner of life by his presence and first miracle at a wedding in Cana in Galilee. It signifies to us the mystery of the union between Christ and his Church, and Holy Scripture commends it to be honored among all people.

The union of husband and wife in heart, body, and mind is intended by God for their mutual joy; for the help and comfort given one another in prosperity and adversity; and, when it is God’s will, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord. Therefore, marriage is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, deliberately, and in accordance with the purposes for which it was instituted by God.

Because the decision to marry is such an important one, we at St. Michael’s by-the-Sea are very serious about our priestly and canonical responsibilities for presiding at a marriage. To be married at St. Michael’s by-the-Sea, each couple must meet the basic requirements established by the Canons (rules) of the Episcopal Church, the Diocese of San Diego, and the practices of this parish.

A “Requirements and Application for Holy Matrimony” booklet is available in the tract rack in the Parish Hall. Read the information, fill out the application form, send the form into the office, and one of the priests will respond. The wedding booklet  is also available for download here.