[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":1520},["ShallowReactive",2],{"blog-catholic-wedding-requirements-archdiocese-of-chicago":3},{"primaryHeading":4,"author":5,"publishedDate":24,"headerImage":25,"body":39,"estimatedReadingTime":1474,"description":1475,"relatedBlogs":1476,"page":1505,"id":1515,"sanityType":1516,"sanityRevision":1517,"sanityKey":7,"sanityCreatedAt":1518,"sanityUpdatedAt":1519},"How to Get Married in the Catholic Church in the Archdiocese of Chicago (2026 Checklist)",{"name":6,"bio":7,"image":8,"social":7},"Gabe Gessler",null,{"asset":9,"crop":7,"hotspot":7,"sanityType":22,"sanityKey":23},{"id":10,"type":11,"assetId":12,"extension":13,"project":7,"path":14,"url":15,"label":7,"originalFilename":16,"size":17,"metadata":18},"image-7bc439c3e337069459a1546742462ce68b9deabe-589x589-jpg","sanity.imageAsset","7bc439c3e337069459a1546742462ce68b9deabe","jpg","images\u002Fh2bgtcnu\u002Fproduction\u002F7bc439c3e337069459a1546742462ce68b9deabe-589x589.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.sanity.io\u002Fimages\u002Fh2bgtcnu\u002Fproduction\u002F7bc439c3e337069459a1546742462ce68b9deabe-589x589.jpg","gabrielgessler.jpeg",33450,{"dimensions":19,"location":7},{"height":20,"width":20,"aspectRatio":21},589,1,"image","3a53eb91-169f-4786-9bd2-7549004ae53e","2026-10-27T00:00:00",{"asset":26,"crop":7,"hotspot":7,"sanityType":22,"sanityKey":38},{"id":27,"type":11,"assetId":28,"extension":13,"project":7,"path":29,"url":30,"label":7,"originalFilename":31,"size":32,"metadata":33},"image-cfb247c7b7aa3f7f2293e002b5b5a57ac3c24359-1061x1600-jpg","cfb247c7b7aa3f7f2293e002b5b5a57ac3c24359","images\u002Fh2bgtcnu\u002Fproduction\u002Fcfb247c7b7aa3f7f2293e002b5b5a57ac3c24359-1061x1600.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.sanity.io\u002Fimages\u002Fh2bgtcnu\u002Fproduction\u002Fcfb247c7b7aa3f7f2293e002b5b5a57ac3c24359-1061x1600.jpg","valeriethompsonphotography_emilyalex_previews_0028_websize.jpg",603421,{"dimensions":34,"location":7},{"height":35,"width":36,"aspectRatio":37},1600,1061,0.663125,"ad5e2c3e-6f07-4962-8c69-240c5a7aeb34",[40,51,109,133,141,149,157,171,183,195,207,215,223,231,239,263,276,288,300,312,324,336,348,356,387,395,407,419,431,439,451,463,471,483,495,507,515,526,538,550,558,574,582,594,606,618,630,642,662,674,682,698,705,717,729,741,752,763,775,787,795,818,826,838,850,862,870,882,890,909,928,945,962,981,989,1001,1013,1021,1040,1048,1083,1091,1099,1107,1116,1124,1132,1140,1148,1156,1164,1172,1180,1188,1196,1204,1212,1220,1228,1236,1244,1252,1260,1268,1291,1299,1307,1322,1335,1348,1361,1374,1386,1401,1416,1431,1446,1460],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":41,"_type":42,"children":43,"asset":7,"markDefs":49,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"bdd606671ad1","block",[44],{"_key":45,"_type":46,"marks":47,"text":48},"1c80a3b1799d","span",[],"The short answer",[],"h2",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":52,"_type":42,"children":53,"asset":7,"markDefs":107,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"6b658b8148f6",[54,58,63,67,71,75,79,83,87,91,95,99,103],{"_key":55,"_type":46,"marks":56,"text":57},"3eb146685257",[],"To get married in the Catholic Church in the Archdiocese of Chicago, which covers Cook and Lake counties, meet with your parish priest or deacon ",{"_key":59,"_type":46,"marks":60,"text":62},"23b8392456de",[61],"strong","at least six months before your wedding",{"_key":64,"_type":46,"marks":65,"text":66},"1a3dbc8960a9",[],", before you commit to a date. Your parish will build a ",{"_key":68,"_type":46,"marks":69,"text":70},"bd9cad3c2d6d",[61],"prenuptial file",{"_key":72,"_type":46,"marks":73,"text":74},"8b9de465e150",[]," with you, including a ",{"_key":76,"_type":46,"marks":77,"text":78},"972a16419f82",[61],"newly issued baptismal certificate",{"_key":80,"_type":46,"marks":81,"text":82},"08226c031199",[]," and sworn statements that you are free to marry. You will also complete a ",{"_key":84,"_type":46,"marks":85,"text":86},"17fc07a0ca6e",[61],"premarital inventory",{"_key":88,"_type":46,"marks":89,"text":90},"3b8f37f8a88b",[],", an ",{"_key":92,"_type":46,"marks":93,"text":94},"9a1d815ef6d1",[61],"Archdiocese of Chicago PreCana class",{"_key":96,"_type":46,"marks":97,"text":98},"8fad06cb0fb3",[],", and an ",{"_key":100,"_type":46,"marks":101,"text":102},"b74d32e70629",[61],"Illinois marriage license",{"_key":104,"_type":46,"marks":105,"text":106},"b38aa65ed389",[]," bought no more than 60 days before the wedding.",[],"normal",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":110,"_type":42,"children":111,"asset":7,"markDefs":132,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"6c30b2b9437a",[112,116,120,124,128],{"_key":113,"_type":46,"marks":114,"text":115},"72ff386ecbe0",[],"If only one of you is Catholic, you can still marry in the Church. Under canon law, a baptized Christian partner needs ",{"_key":117,"_type":46,"marks":118,"text":119},"473796da1dac",[61],"permission for a mixed marriage",{"_key":121,"_type":46,"marks":122,"text":123},"de8acf36d58b",[],", and an unbaptized partner needs a ",{"_key":125,"_type":46,"marks":126,"text":127},"c24101a9e71f",[61],"dispensation from disparity of worship",{"_key":129,"_type":46,"marks":130,"text":131},"28dfce4a2bbd",[],". If either of you was married before, the Church must first confirm that the earlier marriage is null or dissolved, and no wedding date can be set until it does.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":134,"_type":42,"children":135,"asset":7,"markDefs":140,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"371e27cd8130",[136],{"_key":137,"_type":46,"marks":138,"text":139},"4722571aa876",[],"Marriage is a sacrament and a vocation, not just a ceremony. The paperwork below exists so the Church can confirm you are both free to marry and ready to make vows for life.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":142,"_type":42,"children":143,"asset":7,"markDefs":148,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"1a2a562b0f79",[144],{"_key":145,"_type":46,"marks":146,"text":147},"c374f50bea63",[],"What makes a Catholic marriage valid",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":150,"_type":42,"children":151,"asset":7,"markDefs":156,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"5be618c26797",[152],{"_key":153,"_type":46,"marks":154,"text":155},"614217be3111",[],"Every requirement in this checklist serves four conditions the Church holds for a valid marriage, everywhere in the world:",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":158,"_type":42,"children":159,"asset":7,"markDefs":168,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"0b1fce9ff57f",[160,164],{"_key":161,"_type":46,"marks":162,"text":163},"580dd8f56413",[61],"You are both free to marry.",{"_key":165,"_type":46,"marks":166,"text":167},"43b79a8dca03",[]," Neither of you is bound by a prior marriage or another impediment (canon 1085).",[],"bullet","1",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":172,"_type":42,"children":173,"asset":7,"markDefs":182,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"ec1bf91e1d4c",[174,178],{"_key":175,"_type":46,"marks":176,"text":177},"759cbacfb3d0",[61],"You both consent freely.",{"_key":179,"_type":46,"marks":180,"text":181},"1ff489463e85",[]," No one is pressuring or forcing either of you.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":184,"_type":42,"children":185,"asset":7,"markDefs":194,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"a0eed453dd32",[186,190],{"_key":187,"_type":46,"marks":188,"text":189},"142c60e7a113",[61],"You both intend marriage as the Church understands it:",{"_key":191,"_type":46,"marks":192,"text":193},"4b0d8d5288f1",[]," for life, faithful to one another, and open to children. At the wedding, the priest or deacon asks you about each of these before your vows.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":196,"_type":42,"children":197,"asset":7,"markDefs":206,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"313993cd59bf",[198,202],{"_key":199,"_type":46,"marks":200,"text":201},"e2ac9e574f7a",[61],"You exchange consent in the proper form:",{"_key":203,"_type":46,"marks":204,"text":205},"5c94dc98d2c1",[]," before a properly authorized priest or deacon and two witnesses (canon 1108). Any exception, such as a different officiant or place, needs the bishop's approval.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":208,"_type":42,"children":209,"asset":7,"markDefs":214,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"a9480bbb2599",[210],{"_key":211,"_type":46,"marks":212,"text":213},"11ceb45ed1f0",[],"A marriage between two baptized people is a sacrament. A marriage between a Catholic and an unbaptized person can be valid and holy, but it is not a sacrament.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":216,"_type":42,"children":217,"asset":7,"markDefs":222,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"fc374a15544d",[218],{"_key":219,"_type":46,"marks":220,"text":221},"c5e73a578a8e",[],"When can we get married?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":224,"_type":42,"children":225,"asset":7,"markDefs":230,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"ddd13b982ef8",[226],{"_key":227,"_type":46,"marks":228,"text":229},"daf6146d3f31",[],"Church law allows weddings on most days of the year. They are avoided altogether only on Good Friday and Holy Saturday. Some dioceses and parishes do not schedule weddings on Sundays, holy days, or during Lent, so confirm your date with your parish before you book anything else.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":232,"_type":42,"children":233,"asset":7,"markDefs":238,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"741247294739",[234],{"_key":235,"_type":46,"marks":236,"text":237},"614f19db3ad0",[],"Timeline: how far in advance to start",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":240,"_type":42,"children":241,"asset":7,"markDefs":262,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"aefcefc89849",[242,246,250,254,258],{"_key":243,"_type":46,"marks":244,"text":245},"d588a2bc372f",[],"Canon law requires that, before any wedding, \"it must be evident that nothing stands in the way of its valid and licit celebration\" (canon 1066). The Archdiocese of Chicago asks you to meet your priest or deacon ",{"_key":247,"_type":46,"marks":248,"text":249},"29a35d65a441",[61],"at least six months",{"_key":251,"_type":46,"marks":252,"text":253},"5af35ec42e08",[]," before your desired date. Contact your parish ",{"_key":255,"_type":46,"marks":256,"text":257},"ab9035a240ae",[61],"before",{"_key":259,"_type":46,"marks":260,"text":261},"b3aa4458a885",[]," booking a reception venue.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":264,"_type":42,"children":265,"asset":7,"markDefs":274,"style":108,"listItem":275,"level":170},"88bd2bcfbe01",[266,270],{"_key":267,"_type":46,"marks":268,"text":269},"1247a5e5a5ab",[61],"9 to 12 months out: contact your parish.",{"_key":271,"_type":46,"marks":272,"text":273},"a28d9bf00273",[]," Meet the priest or deacon, read your parish's marriage guidelines, and talk through a date. Your prenuptial file is opened once the date is set.",[],"number",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":277,"_type":42,"children":278,"asset":7,"markDefs":287,"style":108,"listItem":275,"level":170},"451b6123fdf7",[279,283],{"_key":280,"_type":46,"marks":281,"text":282},"3eabbaa80dd4",[61],"6 or more months out: premarital inventory.",{"_key":284,"_type":46,"marks":285,"text":286},"765629d4beef",[]," Take the Catholic Couple Check Up online or FOCCUS, depending on what your parish uses.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":289,"_type":42,"children":290,"asset":7,"markDefs":299,"style":108,"listItem":275,"level":170},"38388e944239",[291,295],{"_key":292,"_type":46,"marks":293,"text":294},"ece6fd5166e6",[61],"6 or more months out: register for PreCana.",{"_key":296,"_type":46,"marks":297,"text":298},"b02ba3d70628",[]," Choose a virtual, in-person, or weekend format (see below). Sessions fill up, so book early.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":301,"_type":42,"children":302,"asset":7,"markDefs":311,"style":108,"listItem":275,"level":170},"0e51c6a7ee39",[303,307],{"_key":304,"_type":46,"marks":305,"text":306},"5304af42e12f",[61],"About 6 months out: gather documents.",{"_key":308,"_type":46,"marks":309,"text":310},"c4b0d7c524a5",[]," Request new baptismal certificates and line up the witnesses your parish asks for.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":313,"_type":42,"children":314,"asset":7,"markDefs":323,"style":108,"listItem":275,"level":170},"66b250c187fc",[315,319],{"_key":316,"_type":46,"marks":317,"text":318},"d2613aa2e4f9",[61],"2 to 4 months out: follow-up meetings.",{"_key":320,"_type":46,"marks":321,"text":322},"ce170837b8a3",[]," Review your inventory and PreCana with your priest or deacon, finish the paperwork, and plan readings and music. Your priest or deacon requests any mixed-marriage permission or dispensation.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":325,"_type":42,"children":326,"asset":7,"markDefs":335,"style":108,"listItem":275,"level":170},"9132f16287e4",[327,331],{"_key":328,"_type":46,"marks":329,"text":330},"10f1448aaa9e",[61],"1 to 60 days before the wedding: get your marriage license.",{"_key":332,"_type":46,"marks":333,"text":334},"e9c33602f8ac",[]," The Archdiocese says to buy it \"at least one, but no more than 60 days\" before the ceremony. Bring it to your parish before the rehearsal.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":337,"_type":42,"children":338,"asset":7,"markDefs":347,"style":108,"listItem":275,"level":170},"7fcda7cad415",[339,343],{"_key":340,"_type":46,"marks":341,"text":342},"b7c9e059a0ee",[61],"After the wedding.",{"_key":344,"_type":46,"marks":345,"text":346},"366e508ebad7",[]," Your marriage is recorded in the parish register, and each of your baptismal churches is notified so it can be noted on your baptismal record.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":349,"_type":42,"children":350,"asset":7,"markDefs":355,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"a491ea1fca65",[351],{"_key":352,"_type":46,"marks":353,"text":354},"e27a654821d0",[],"Checklist: if you are both Catholic",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":357,"_type":42,"children":358,"asset":7,"markDefs":381,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"5cab663f1c97",[359,363,368,372,377],{"_key":360,"_type":46,"marks":361,"text":362},"2493757750a9",[],"These steps come from the Archdiocese's ",{"_key":364,"_type":46,"marks":365,"text":367},"beb73f22faf8",[366],"23be43cf2fde","Marriage",{"_key":369,"_type":46,"marks":370,"text":371},"89fa8fb5d27b",[]," page and its ",{"_key":373,"_type":46,"marks":374,"text":376},"6dad95a76d79",[375],"bf3c434308bc","Planning a Catholic Wedding",{"_key":378,"_type":46,"marks":379,"text":380},"9562e5d7b875",[]," guide. Everything in the later checklists builds on this one.",[382,385],{"_type":383,"href":384,"_key":366},"link","https:\u002F\u002Fpvm.archchicago.org\u002Flifelong-formation\u002Fmarriage",{"_key":375,"_type":383,"href":386},"https:\u002F\u002Fpvm.archchicago.org\u002Fdocuments\u002F87254\u002F403331\u002FPlanning+a+Catholic+Wedding\u002F2b0a5b8b-4ac8-4996-86db-6177693d6683",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":388,"_type":42,"children":389,"asset":7,"markDefs":394,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"2369ff5e9ff0",[390],{"_key":391,"_type":46,"marks":392,"text":393},"ff50382567b8",[61],"Sacramental records (each of you)",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":396,"_type":42,"children":397,"asset":7,"markDefs":406,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"dc710c0fd195",[398,402],{"_key":399,"_type":46,"marks":400,"text":401},"7e57827050a8",[61],"Baptismal certificate, newly issued.",{"_key":403,"_type":46,"marks":404,"text":405},"c17a1745d6d8",[]," Request a new copy from the parish where you were baptized, not the one you were given as a child. Its notations record Confirmation and any prior marriage, which is how the Church confirms you are free to marry. Ask your parish how recently it must be dated.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":408,"_type":42,"children":409,"asset":7,"markDefs":418,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"ae34cac5b68c",[410,414],{"_key":411,"_type":46,"marks":412,"text":413},"27201c11f735",[61],"Confirmation record",{"_key":415,"_type":46,"marks":416,"text":417},"28f4a0a04dc4",[],", if it is not noted on the baptismal certificate.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":420,"_type":42,"children":421,"asset":7,"markDefs":430,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"988c61b1cd22",[422,426],{"_key":423,"_type":46,"marks":424,"text":425},"98ae6c12ace8",[61],"Not confirmed yet?",{"_key":427,"_type":46,"marks":428,"text":429},"628010435a10",[]," Canon 1065 says Catholics are to receive Confirmation before marriage \"if it can be done without grave inconvenience.\" Tell your priest early. It is usually not a barrier to setting a date.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":432,"_type":42,"children":433,"asset":7,"markDefs":438,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"405c877409a9",[434],{"_key":435,"_type":46,"marks":436,"text":437},"77d2ff01cf99",[61],"Freedom to marry",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":440,"_type":42,"children":441,"asset":7,"markDefs":450,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"ae2702f06b90",[442,446],{"_key":443,"_type":46,"marks":444,"text":445},"8da0f89897b9",[61],"Prenuptial file.",{"_key":447,"_type":46,"marks":448,"text":449},"f143dc5c0eed",[]," Once your date is set, your parish helps you complete it. It includes interviews with the priest or deacon, who confirms you are marrying freely and intend a permanent, faithful marriage open to children.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":452,"_type":42,"children":453,"asset":7,"markDefs":462,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"c0398976e334",[454,458],{"_key":455,"_type":46,"marks":456,"text":457},"1d53b88139b9",[61],"Witness statements.",{"_key":459,"_type":46,"marks":460,"text":461},"e281ae849217",[]," Your parish will ask for sworn statements from people who know you that you are free to marry. Ask who can serve as your witnesses.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":464,"_type":42,"children":465,"asset":7,"markDefs":470,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"5715a4161293",[466],{"_key":467,"_type":46,"marks":468,"text":469},"c4c2444ea7c8",[61],"Preparation",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":472,"_type":42,"children":473,"asset":7,"markDefs":482,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"00d474273ca3",[474,478],{"_key":475,"_type":46,"marks":476,"text":477},"4b221c8eaee9",[61],"Premarital inventory",{"_key":479,"_type":46,"marks":480,"text":481},"287d6f4cc69a",[],": the Catholic Couple Check Up (online, with results right away) or FOCCUS.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":484,"_type":42,"children":485,"asset":7,"markDefs":494,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"f8cd436d76e2",[486,490],{"_key":487,"_type":46,"marks":488,"text":489},"b8dbf42d47cc",[61],"PreCana certificate.",{"_key":491,"_type":46,"marks":492,"text":493},"b83ce037e5ed",[]," The certificate of attendance \"fulfills the marriage preparation requirement in the Archdiocese of Chicago.\"",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":496,"_type":42,"children":497,"asset":7,"markDefs":506,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"1b3de9a1fa6f",[498,502],{"_key":499,"_type":46,"marks":500,"text":501},"c30f8026695f",[61],"Follow-up meeting",{"_key":503,"_type":46,"marks":504,"text":505},"81f72dbc2134",[]," with your priest or deacon to discuss your class and inventory, finish paperwork, and choose readings and music.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":508,"_type":42,"children":509,"asset":7,"markDefs":514,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"d7774c66e0a8",[510],{"_key":511,"_type":46,"marks":512,"text":513},"a013deda4e16",[61],"Civil and logistics",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":516,"_type":42,"children":517,"asset":7,"markDefs":525,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"5fb82720797d",[518,521],{"_key":519,"_type":46,"marks":520,"text":102},"81f6a39231a7",[61],{"_key":522,"_type":46,"marks":523,"text":524},"32eb9be578c7",[],", valid for 60 days.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":527,"_type":42,"children":528,"asset":7,"markDefs":537,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"ec24c754108f",[529,533],{"_key":530,"_type":46,"marks":531,"text":532},"295bc333e861",[61],"Liturgy planning.",{"_key":534,"_type":46,"marks":535,"text":536},"f4188a14be62",[]," When both of you are Catholic, the wedding is normally celebrated within Mass.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":539,"_type":42,"children":540,"asset":7,"markDefs":549,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"7d1552fbe43b",[541,545],{"_key":542,"_type":46,"marks":543,"text":544},"eb2287c5421e",[61],"Marrying outside the Archdiocese?",{"_key":546,"_type":46,"marks":547,"text":548},"995400257ad1",[]," Your home parish still prepares you. It sends your completed file to the Archdiocese's Canonical Affairs Office, which reviews it and forwards it to the other diocese. Only that office sends the paperwork.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":551,"_type":42,"children":552,"asset":7,"markDefs":557,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"5cecedd96831",[553],{"_key":554,"_type":46,"marks":555,"text":556},"1ca304fc6d82",[],"Checklist: if one of you is Catholic and the other is a baptized Christian",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":559,"_type":42,"children":560,"asset":7,"markDefs":573,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"3da90ed42f1a",[561,565,569],{"_key":562,"_type":46,"marks":563,"text":564},"fc3ee0f3eab0",[],"A Catholic marrying a baptized Protestant, Orthodox, or other Christian is a ",{"_key":566,"_type":46,"marks":567,"text":568},"ce88d4e80839",[61],"mixed marriage",{"_key":570,"_type":46,"marks":571,"text":572},"3d4c4eb93eff",[],". It is valid and sacramental. Canon 1124 requires the \"express permission of the competent authority.\" The Archdiocese does not publish its mixed-marriage form online, so your priest or deacon handles the request.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":575,"_type":42,"children":576,"asset":7,"markDefs":581,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"1429f26b4776",[577],{"_key":578,"_type":46,"marks":579,"text":580},"913ee0c53cb8",[],"Complete everything in the both-Catholic checklist, plus:",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":583,"_type":42,"children":584,"asset":7,"markDefs":593,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"fa5d11b7e948",[585,589],{"_key":586,"_type":46,"marks":587,"text":588},"bb5e15ed6269",[61],"Baptismal certificate from the non-Catholic partner's church",{"_key":590,"_type":46,"marks":591,"text":592},"d0e67c69dee1",[],", if at all possible. If the baptism is in doubt, tell your priest; the case may need to be handled as disparity of worship (next section).",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":595,"_type":42,"children":596,"asset":7,"markDefs":605,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"a8e520de435d",[597,601],{"_key":598,"_type":46,"marks":599,"text":600},"885fc2b6d2c5",[61],"Permission for a mixed marriage.",{"_key":602,"_type":46,"marks":603,"text":604},"2031c40db9b4",[]," Under canon 1125, the Catholic declares they will remove dangers of falling away from the faith and promises to do all in their power to have the children baptized and raised Catholic. The non-Catholic partner is informed of these promises but makes no promise themselves. Both of you are instructed on the purposes and essential properties of marriage.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":607,"_type":42,"children":608,"asset":7,"markDefs":617,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"871543dac043",[609,613],{"_key":610,"_type":46,"marks":611,"text":612},"f26479ac1b1e",[61],"The rite.",{"_key":614,"_type":46,"marks":615,"text":616},"2a458cbfedb0",[]," A mixed marriage ordinarily takes place outside of Mass, so that one spouse is not left unable to receive Communion. A Nuptial Mass is possible only with the bishop's permission, and Communion is not given to the non-Catholic spouse.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":619,"_type":42,"children":620,"asset":7,"markDefs":629,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"edcd36386821",[621,625],{"_key":622,"_type":46,"marks":623,"text":624},"9b49df57c59a",[61],"One wedding, not two.",{"_key":626,"_type":46,"marks":627,"text":628},"f6e06c52c49f",[]," Canon 1127 forbids a second religious ceremony to give or renew consent, before or after the Catholic one. It also forbids a joint service in which the Catholic and non-Catholic ministers each ask for your vows using their own rites.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":631,"_type":42,"children":632,"asset":7,"markDefs":641,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"b683337ea2df",[633,637],{"_key":634,"_type":46,"marks":635,"text":636},"c1598a0f4efb",[61],"The other partner's minister (optional).",{"_key":638,"_type":46,"marks":639,"text":640},"b09bbadcc32a",[]," Ask your priest how a non-Catholic minister can take part. The Catholic priest or deacon receives your vows.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":643,"_type":42,"children":644,"asset":7,"markDefs":661,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"7394847fd9b4",[645,649,653,657],{"_key":646,"_type":46,"marks":647,"text":648},"66244fcca39a",[61],"Want the wedding in the other partner's church?",{"_key":650,"_type":46,"marks":651,"text":652},"abf3fec21bbe",[]," Under canon 1127, that requires a ",{"_key":654,"_type":46,"marks":655,"text":656},"5f98a65e688e",[61],"dispensation from canonical form",{"_key":658,"_type":46,"marks":659,"text":660},"e64d702753a1",[],", which the local bishop can grant when there are grave difficulties in observing the form. Ask early.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":663,"_type":42,"children":664,"asset":7,"markDefs":673,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"0562568cc69b",[665,669],{"_key":666,"_type":46,"marks":667,"text":668},"3f761efa2197",[61],"Marrying an Orthodox Christian:",{"_key":670,"_type":46,"marks":671,"text":672},"10643985c3cf",[]," tell your priest at your first meeting. These marriages have their own canonical rules, and he can explain how to make sure the marriage is recognized.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":675,"_type":42,"children":676,"asset":7,"markDefs":681,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"96a43ae8cc93",[677],{"_key":678,"_type":46,"marks":679,"text":680},"8dcd969b6662",[],"Checklist: if one of you is Catholic and the other is not baptized",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":683,"_type":42,"children":684,"asset":7,"markDefs":697,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"11413a9bedd4",[685,689,693],{"_key":686,"_type":46,"marks":687,"text":688},"01d738602ab6",[],"A Catholic marrying someone who was never baptized (for example, someone who is Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, or of no religion) needs a ",{"_key":690,"_type":46,"marks":691,"text":692},"b535122c9a56",[61],"dispensation from the impediment of disparity of worship",{"_key":694,"_type":46,"marks":695,"text":696},"0f12a18ff6b6",[],", also called disparity of cult. Under canon 1086, the marriage is invalid without it. Your priest or deacon requests the dispensation from the Archdiocese. The marriage is valid and holy, though not a sacrament.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":699,"_type":42,"children":700,"asset":7,"markDefs":704,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"5496dc1110c1",[701],{"_key":702,"_type":46,"marks":703,"text":580},"080ae7c99b26",[],[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":706,"_type":42,"children":707,"asset":7,"markDefs":716,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"7c44ab4220a7",[708,712],{"_key":709,"_type":46,"marks":710,"text":711},"839f1223b513",[61],"No baptismal certificate",{"_key":713,"_type":46,"marks":714,"text":715},"474a3ceddf2d",[]," is needed from the unbaptized partner. They still complete the prenuptial interview and freedom-to-marry statements.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":718,"_type":42,"children":719,"asset":7,"markDefs":728,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"e1e3ef7ddc76",[720,724],{"_key":721,"_type":46,"marks":722,"text":723},"8a0b36d8393a",[61],"Dispensation from disparity of worship",{"_key":725,"_type":46,"marks":726,"text":727},"b92d21df306f",[],", requested by your priest or deacon. Allow extra time, since it goes beyond the parish.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":730,"_type":42,"children":731,"asset":7,"markDefs":740,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"7914c8dcd19f",[732,736],{"_key":733,"_type":46,"marks":734,"text":735},"9382922fe15a",[61],"The Catholic party's promises.",{"_key":737,"_type":46,"marks":738,"text":739},"3e357900f7f9",[]," Canon 1086 requires the same conditions as a mixed marriage: the Catholic promises to remain faithful and to do all they can to have the children baptized and raised Catholic.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":742,"_type":42,"children":743,"asset":7,"markDefs":751,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"a8b318d0752b",[744,747],{"_key":745,"_type":46,"marks":746,"text":612},"6835ceb81f9d",[61],{"_key":748,"_type":46,"marks":749,"text":750},"182530beb45f",[]," The wedding is celebrated outside of Mass, using the rite for marriage between a Catholic and a non-Christian.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":753,"_type":42,"children":754,"asset":7,"markDefs":762,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"dd24778eedb3",[755,758],{"_key":756,"_type":46,"marks":757,"text":624},"5ab36e595ed3",[61],{"_key":759,"_type":46,"marks":760,"text":761},"693d6c6fa611",[]," The same canon 1127 rule applies here (canon 1129): no second religious ceremony and no blended service with two officiants each receiving your vows.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":764,"_type":42,"children":765,"asset":7,"markDefs":774,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"a56cfbf24050",[766,770],{"_key":767,"_type":46,"marks":768,"text":769},"0ddebaa4b71a",[61],"Location.",{"_key":771,"_type":46,"marks":772,"text":773},"a748ac619e63",[]," Canon 1118 allows this wedding \"in a church or in another suitable place.\" Ask your priest before assuming a non-church venue will be approved.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":776,"_type":42,"children":777,"asset":7,"markDefs":786,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"ccf356dc8907",[778,782],{"_key":779,"_type":46,"marks":780,"text":781},"0f841931e9ee",[61],"Marrying with a rabbi or other officiant:",{"_key":783,"_type":46,"marks":784,"text":785},"ba6c6712303a",[]," a wedding led by a non-Catholic officiant needs a dispensation from canonical form (canon 1127), so talk with your priest early.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":788,"_type":42,"children":789,"asset":7,"markDefs":794,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"310c3fa7f104",[790],{"_key":791,"_type":46,"marks":792,"text":793},"1bf9dc96925e",[],"If either of you was married before, or you are already civilly married",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":796,"_type":42,"children":797,"asset":7,"markDefs":815,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"134cec5b227c",[798,802,806,811],{"_key":799,"_type":46,"marks":800,"text":801},"894a30b187ef",[61],"Previously married, Catholic or not.",{"_key":803,"_type":46,"marks":804,"text":805},"23e272d8567d",[]," Under canon 1085, a person bound by a prior marriage cannot validly marry, and a civil divorce does not end that bond in the Church's eyes. The earlier marriage must be declared null or dissolved by the Archdiocese's ",{"_key":807,"_type":46,"marks":808,"text":810},"766e474ebc19",[809],"2ef96c006f61","Metropolitan Tribunal",{"_key":812,"_type":46,"marks":813,"text":814},"dfde3ff350bf",[]," before a wedding date can be set. This applies even if your fiancé's earlier marriage was between two non-Catholics.",[816],{"_key":809,"_type":383,"href":817},"https:\u002F\u002Farchchicago.org\u002Foffices-and-ministries\u002Fmetropolitan-tribunal",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":819,"_type":42,"children":820,"asset":7,"markDefs":825,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"db20dc815fe7",[821],{"_key":822,"_type":46,"marks":823,"text":824},"ceda71710434",[],"Common situations:",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":827,"_type":42,"children":828,"asset":7,"markDefs":837,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"8a63ffd0f9d5",[829,833],{"_key":830,"_type":46,"marks":831,"text":832},"19108ce21ea3",[61],"Prior spouse has died:",{"_key":834,"_type":46,"marks":835,"text":836},"a6f20cf35b58",[]," no Tribunal case is needed. Bring the death certificate.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":839,"_type":42,"children":840,"asset":7,"markDefs":849,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"c0e9ed2662e9",[841,845],{"_key":842,"_type":46,"marks":843,"text":844},"03c7d605e770",[61],"A Catholic married outside the Church without a dispensation (lack of canonical form):",{"_key":846,"_type":46,"marks":847,"text":848},"17e0f8102383",[]," canon 1108 requires Catholics to marry before a priest or deacon and two witnesses, so a marriage without that form or a dispensation from it can be declared invalid. Your priest will help you gather the records.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":851,"_type":42,"children":852,"asset":7,"markDefs":861,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"7b3a7c52fa17",[853,857],{"_key":854,"_type":46,"marks":855,"text":856},"3c83d9441fa5",[61],"Any other prior marriage (formal declaration of nullity, often called an annulment):",{"_key":858,"_type":46,"marks":859,"text":860},"680a2a935d62",[]," the Tribunal studies whether a valid marriage ever existed.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":863,"_type":42,"children":864,"asset":7,"markDefs":869,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"e70666aa9385",[865],{"_key":866,"_type":46,"marks":867,"text":868},"dd5936b82481",[],"The Archdiocese does not post Tribunal timelines or fees online, so ask your priest or call the Tribunal at (312) 534-8280. It is at 835 North Rush Street in Chicago and has field delegates for English, Spanish, and Polish cases. Start with your parish priest or deacon.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":871,"_type":42,"children":872,"asset":7,"markDefs":881,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"63f2fc3d3348",[873,877],{"_key":874,"_type":46,"marks":875,"text":876},"2a250f02bad0",[61],"Already civilly married to each other (convalidation).",{"_key":878,"_type":46,"marks":879,"text":880},"008d610461e3",[]," If neither of you has a prior marriage, the Church can recognize your civil marriage. Under canon 1160, you exchange consent again in the Catholic form. You complete the same preparation and paperwork as above. Ask your parish how it prepares couples who are already civilly married.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":883,"_type":42,"children":884,"asset":7,"markDefs":889,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"c8fec8b8d9c6",[885],{"_key":886,"_type":46,"marks":887,"text":888},"ed3043e458fc",[],"Marriage preparation (PreCana) options in Chicago",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":891,"_type":42,"children":892,"asset":7,"markDefs":906,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"a9708e46d534",[893,897,902],{"_key":894,"_type":46,"marks":895,"text":896},"4906747b6dba",[],"Canon 1063 calls every diocese to prepare couples for marriage. In Chicago, every couple completes a premarital inventory and one PreCana course. Register for any format at ",{"_key":898,"_type":46,"marks":899,"text":901},"bb02f512c4c3",[900],"b2536c4a37ea","formedcatholiconline.com\u002FMarriage-Preparation",{"_key":903,"_type":46,"marks":904,"text":905},"c88afed4057d",[],".",[907],{"_key":900,"_type":383,"href":908},"https:\u002F\u002Fformedcatholiconline.com\u002FMarriage-Preparation",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":910,"_type":42,"children":911,"asset":7,"markDefs":925,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"bc59944528c0",[912,917,921],{"_key":913,"_type":46,"marks":914,"text":916},"309d27a0c3d7",[61,915],"7c96b7e99aca","Virtual PreCana",{"_key":918,"_type":46,"marks":919,"text":920},"37bb4bf50b52",[61],":",{"_key":922,"_type":46,"marks":923,"text":924},"0ef8f7fd5646",[]," live, interactive Zoom sessions, either one full Saturday (9 am to 3 pm) or two weeknight evenings (6 pm to 9 pm). Offered in English, Spanish, and Polish. $175 per couple.",[926],{"_type":383,"href":927,"_key":915},"https:\u002F\u002Fpvm.archchicago.org\u002Fvirtual-precana",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":929,"_type":42,"children":930,"asset":7,"markDefs":943,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"eb5c80bacd64",[931,936,939],{"_key":932,"_type":46,"marks":933,"text":935},"5048bf7b539b",[61,934],"0f9a8acd4e10","In-person PreCana",{"_key":937,"_type":46,"marks":938,"text":920},"0cd60ea2622b",[61],{"_key":940,"_type":46,"marks":941,"text":942},"7a0e958ca9ba",[]," a full Saturday at a host parish, 9 am to 3 pm. Offered in English and Spanish. $225 per couple.",[944],{"_key":934,"_type":383,"href":927},{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":946,"_type":42,"children":947,"asset":7,"markDefs":960,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"118a2f923996",[948,953,956],{"_key":949,"_type":46,"marks":950,"text":952},"0e8f284d82e5",[61,951],"87f7da4bd9ca","PreCana Weekend Encounter",{"_key":954,"_type":46,"marks":955,"text":920},"8201f5f59b22",[61],{"_key":957,"_type":46,"marks":958,"text":959},"d9f114822f53",[]," a weekend retreat with speakers, prayer, and reflection at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake in Mundelein. Lodging is included, with separate rooms for the bride and groom. Offered in English and Spanish. $495 per couple.",[961],{"_key":951,"_type":383,"href":927},{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":963,"_type":42,"children":964,"asset":7,"markDefs":978,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"91d6e3e9de99",[965,969,974],{"_key":966,"_type":46,"marks":967,"text":968},"116598543881",[],"Couples separated by distance may, with permission, take the class online. The 2026 ",{"_key":970,"_type":46,"marks":971,"text":973},"675d3c365296",[972],"dca0acdabacc","Spanish-language schedule",{"_key":975,"_type":46,"marks":976,"text":977},"f10c1eb0e38a",[]," lists in-person Saturday sessions at parishes in Cicero, Melrose Park, Chicago, and Maywood, with breakfast, lunch, and materials included. Questions: precana@archchicago.org.",[979],{"_key":972,"_type":383,"href":980},"https:\u002F\u002Fpvm.archchicago.org\u002Fdocuments\u002Fd\u002Fparish-vitality-and-mission\u002F2026-marriage-preparation-sessions_espanol-v3",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":982,"_type":42,"children":983,"asset":7,"markDefs":988,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"0a2c98326856",[984],{"_key":985,"_type":46,"marks":986,"text":987},"94343f07f814",[],"Costs, venues, and your Illinois marriage license",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":990,"_type":42,"children":991,"asset":7,"markDefs":1000,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"90b2956b8c0c",[992,996],{"_key":993,"_type":46,"marks":994,"text":995},"14fc9e8fc965",[61],"Church fees.",{"_key":997,"_type":46,"marks":998,"text":999},"a8496b5252e3",[]," Fees are set by each parish, not by the Archdiocese, so ask your parish for its schedule early. Most parishes charge a few hundred dollars. Large or landmark churches can charge $2,000 or more. Musicians, flowers, and photography are usually separate. Add $175 to $495 for PreCana, depending on the format. If money is tight, talk to your pastor: you do not need to postpone the sacrament because of cost, and the Church does not require expensive flowers, attire, or extras.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1002,"_type":42,"children":1003,"asset":7,"markDefs":1012,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"ab73344a54b8",[1004,1008],{"_key":1005,"_type":46,"marks":1006,"text":1007},"50fd85d51695",[61],"Can we get married outdoors or at our venue?",{"_key":1009,"_type":46,"marks":1010,"text":1011},"42c1ef48e8d5",[]," Almost never. Canon 1118 says a wedding between two Catholics, or between a Catholic and a baptized Christian, \"is to be celebrated in a parish church.\" Any other place requires the local bishop's permission, which is rarely granted for outdoor or venue ceremonies. A wedding between a Catholic and an unbaptized partner \"can be celebrated in a church or in another suitable place,\" still with approval. Plan the ceremony at the church and the reception at your venue.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1014,"_type":42,"children":1015,"asset":7,"markDefs":1020,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"43ff3d1a85dd",[1016],{"_key":1017,"_type":46,"marks":1018,"text":1019},"506eb758588d",[61],"Illinois marriage license:",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1022,"_type":42,"children":1023,"asset":7,"markDefs":1037,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"ef8cc07a30f2",[1024,1028,1033],{"_key":1025,"_type":46,"marks":1026,"text":1027},"2181655238a6",[],"In Cook County, you both appear together at one of the ",{"_key":1029,"_type":46,"marks":1030,"text":1032},"750c4ccc9bc2",[1031],"a53fabf3e3fc","Cook County Clerk's",{"_key":1034,"_type":46,"marks":1035,"text":1036},"edd450f0fd0a",[]," four Vital Records locations. You can start the application online, but you must still finish it in person. The fee is $60.",[1038],{"href":1039,"_key":1031,"_type":383},"https:\u002F\u002Fcookcountyclerkil.gov\u002Fservice\u002Fmarriage-licenses",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1041,"_type":42,"children":1042,"asset":7,"markDefs":1047,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"9f0475523327",[1043],{"_key":1044,"_type":46,"marks":1045,"text":1046},"026212922f83",[],"Bring valid identification with proof of age. Anyone divorced within the last six months brings a certified copy of the divorce decree.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1049,"_type":42,"children":1050,"asset":7,"markDefs":1080,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"48f45e9953d2",[1051,1055,1060,1064,1068,1072,1076],{"_key":1052,"_type":46,"marks":1053,"text":1054},"9020ff9ab5c2",[],"Under ",{"_key":1056,"_type":46,"marks":1057,"text":1059},"89a212c136e0",[1058],"1998ff002d4d","Illinois law",{"_key":1061,"_type":46,"marks":1062,"text":1063},"8181369147eb",[],", the license takes effect ",{"_key":1065,"_type":46,"marks":1066,"text":1067},"21e843e42caf",[61],"one day after it is issued",{"_key":1069,"_type":46,"marks":1070,"text":1071},"5958eeea163e",[]," and expires ",{"_key":1073,"_type":46,"marks":1074,"text":1075},"119ce1805081",[61],"60 days",{"_key":1077,"_type":46,"marks":1078,"text":1079},"3e89e117dac3",[]," after that.",[1081],{"_type":383,"href":1082,"_key":1058},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ilga.gov\u002FDocuments\u002Flegislation\u002Filcs\u002Fdocuments\u002F075000050K207.htm",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1084,"_type":42,"children":1085,"asset":7,"markDefs":1090,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"8b10d5704f32",[1086],{"_key":1087,"_type":46,"marks":1088,"text":1089},"702c286218b8",[],"A Cook County license is valid only for ceremonies in Chicago and suburban Cook County. Marrying in Lake County? Get your license from the Lake County Clerk.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1092,"_type":42,"children":1093,"asset":7,"markDefs":1098,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"fbdd9c96e9ec",[1094],{"_key":1095,"_type":46,"marks":1096,"text":1097},"4d71b41b3143",[],"After the ceremony, your priest or deacon completes the license and returns it to the clerk within 10 days.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1100,"_type":42,"children":1101,"asset":7,"markDefs":1106,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"8768a76afde6",[1102],{"_key":1103,"_type":46,"marks":1104,"text":1105},"ce9efcbb4e59",[],"Frequently asked questions",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1108,"_type":42,"children":1109,"asset":7,"markDefs":1114,"style":1115,"listItem":7,"level":7},"8dfad12dbc9a",[1110],{"_key":1111,"_type":46,"marks":1112,"text":1113},"aaf90200b1f0",[],"What makes a Catholic marriage valid?",[],"h3",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1117,"_type":42,"children":1118,"asset":7,"markDefs":1123,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"1a84a9d3d7c7",[1119],{"_key":1120,"_type":46,"marks":1121,"text":1122},"ee874ca415ea",[],"You must both be free to marry, consent freely, and intend a lifelong, faithful marriage open to children. You exchange consent before an authorized priest or deacon and two witnesses, unless the bishop approves an exception.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1125,"_type":42,"children":1126,"asset":7,"markDefs":1131,"style":1115,"listItem":7,"level":7},"43b42260e70f",[1127],{"_key":1128,"_type":46,"marks":1129,"text":1130},"e0ccf05db76e",[],"How far in advance do we need to contact the church in Chicago?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1133,"_type":42,"children":1134,"asset":7,"markDefs":1139,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"be0f1b66b5a9",[1135],{"_key":1136,"_type":46,"marks":1137,"text":1138},"e3c41d8cbbac",[],"At least six months before your wedding. The Archdiocese of Chicago asks you to meet your priest or deacon six months ahead, before you commit to a date. Contacting your parish 9 to 12 months ahead gives you time to secure your date and a PreCana class.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1141,"_type":42,"children":1142,"asset":7,"markDefs":1147,"style":1115,"listItem":7,"level":7},"482145b89cd9",[1143],{"_key":1144,"_type":46,"marks":1145,"text":1146},"27cb8da01097",[],"What documents do we need to get married in the Catholic Church in Chicago?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1149,"_type":42,"children":1150,"asset":7,"markDefs":1155,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"57c7b7b56ea7",[1151],{"_key":1152,"_type":46,"marks":1153,"text":1154},"35eb9ad620ab",[],"Each Catholic needs a newly issued baptismal certificate and sworn statements that you are free to marry, gathered in your parish's prenuptial file. You also need a premarital inventory, a PreCana certificate, and an Illinois marriage license.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1157,"_type":42,"children":1158,"asset":7,"markDefs":1163,"style":1115,"listItem":7,"level":7},"da58a25d6b29",[1159],{"_key":1160,"_type":46,"marks":1161,"text":1162},"afff341ef40b",[],"How much does PreCana cost in the Archdiocese of Chicago?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1165,"_type":42,"children":1166,"asset":7,"markDefs":1171,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"40497d106c60",[1167],{"_key":1168,"_type":46,"marks":1169,"text":1170},"8162439472e6",[],"Virtual PreCana on Zoom costs $175 per couple, the one-day in-person class costs $225 per couple, and the PreCana Weekend Encounter retreat costs $495 per couple.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1173,"_type":42,"children":1174,"asset":7,"markDefs":1179,"style":1115,"listItem":7,"level":7},"0d01d89a40c0",[1175],{"_key":1176,"_type":46,"marks":1177,"text":1178},"e87de7c421c7",[],"Can a Catholic marry a non-Catholic in the Catholic Church?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1181,"_type":42,"children":1182,"asset":7,"markDefs":1187,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"d4506c6f7633",[1183],{"_key":1184,"_type":46,"marks":1185,"text":1186},"a26017a0df49",[],"Yes. A baptized Christian partner needs permission for a mixed marriage. An unbaptized partner needs a dispensation from disparity of worship. In both cases, the Catholic promises to remain faithful and to do all they can to raise the children Catholic.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1189,"_type":42,"children":1190,"asset":7,"markDefs":1195,"style":1115,"listItem":7,"level":7},"556300e85ece",[1191],{"_key":1192,"_type":46,"marks":1193,"text":1194},"0b4946d483f3",[],"Do I have to be confirmed to get married in the Catholic Church?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1197,"_type":42,"children":1198,"asset":7,"markDefs":1203,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"fad4a319dcb4",[1199],{"_key":1200,"_type":46,"marks":1201,"text":1202},"217dc56811cd",[],"Canon law asks Catholics to receive Confirmation before marriage if it can be done without grave inconvenience. Tell your priest early so he can help you prepare.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1205,"_type":42,"children":1206,"asset":7,"markDefs":1211,"style":1115,"listItem":7,"level":7},"711cbdc14f1f",[1207],{"_key":1208,"_type":46,"marks":1209,"text":1210},"295d430f801d",[],"Can we have a Catholic wedding outdoors in Chicago?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1213,"_type":42,"children":1214,"asset":7,"markDefs":1219,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"8f976d7ce3c9",[1215],{"_key":1216,"_type":46,"marks":1217,"text":1218},"b4a68d3aed99",[],"Almost never. Weddings between Catholics, or between a Catholic and a baptized Christian, take place in a parish church unless the bishop grants permission, which is rarely given. A wedding with an unbaptized partner may be approved for another suitable place.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1221,"_type":42,"children":1222,"asset":7,"markDefs":1227,"style":1115,"listItem":7,"level":7},"f1ee13432e61",[1223],{"_key":1224,"_type":46,"marks":1225,"text":1226},"1ca30279b6a6",[],"How much does a Catholic church wedding cost in Chicago?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1229,"_type":42,"children":1230,"asset":7,"markDefs":1235,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"2628e767dcea",[1231],{"_key":1232,"_type":46,"marks":1233,"text":1234},"b0e6e21342b0",[],"Fees are set by each parish. Most charge a few hundred dollars, while large or landmark churches can charge $2,000 or more. Add $175 to $495 for the Archdiocese's PreCana.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1237,"_type":42,"children":1238,"asset":7,"markDefs":1243,"style":1115,"listItem":7,"level":7},"5e84d5a804eb",[1239],{"_key":1240,"_type":46,"marks":1241,"text":1242},"09398babce3b",[],"When should we get our marriage license for a Catholic wedding in Chicago?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1245,"_type":42,"children":1246,"asset":7,"markDefs":1251,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"6e0625e97977",[1247],{"_key":1248,"_type":46,"marks":1249,"text":1250},"8d72951f58d0",[],"Within 60 days of the wedding. An Illinois license takes effect one day after it is issued and expires 60 days later. In Cook County it costs $60, and you must appear together at a Cook County Clerk location.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1253,"_type":42,"children":1254,"asset":7,"markDefs":1259,"style":1115,"listItem":7,"level":7},"5d594eea04e7",[1255],{"_key":1256,"_type":46,"marks":1257,"text":1258},"0ab520a04502",[],"Is PreCana available in Spanish or Polish in Chicago?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1261,"_type":42,"children":1262,"asset":7,"markDefs":1267,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"f8e1cbceabde",[1263],{"_key":1264,"_type":46,"marks":1265,"text":1266},"eedee623a689",[],"Yes. The Archdiocese of Chicago offers PreCana in Spanish, both in person and on Zoom, and in Polish on Zoom.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1269,"_type":42,"children":1270,"asset":7,"markDefs":1288,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"8f54c7b5b2bc",[1271,1275,1279,1284],{"_key":1272,"_type":46,"marks":1273,"text":1274},"0a36dc570131",[61],"Planning your Catholic wedding?",{"_key":1276,"_type":46,"marks":1277,"text":1278},"5b99e61fecc0",[]," ",{"_key":1280,"_type":46,"marks":1281,"text":1283},"aabc3fe12e47",[1282],"ae9b35c7936c","Cana",{"_key":1285,"_type":46,"marks":1286,"text":1287},"5a8a1a50aec3",[]," is built for couples getting married in the Church. Keep this checklist, your registry, and your vendor search in one place.",[1289],{"_type":383,"href":1290,"_key":1282},"https:\u002F\u002Fcana.wedding",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1292,"_type":42,"children":1293,"asset":7,"markDefs":1298,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"f94d6808593f",[1294],{"_key":1295,"_type":46,"marks":1296,"text":1297},"dfede256a6dc",[],"Sources",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1300,"_type":42,"children":1301,"asset":7,"markDefs":1306,"style":108,"listItem":7,"level":7},"ecfe2790cebd",[1302],{"_key":1303,"_type":46,"marks":1304,"text":1305},"bfdd9ee3ac2a",[],"Requirements can change. Always confirm with your parish priest or deacon. Last checked October 27, 2026.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1308,"_type":42,"children":1309,"asset":7,"markDefs":1319,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"2d53cf8ebc5a",[1310,1315],{"_key":1311,"_type":46,"marks":1312,"text":1314},"2999dd56cc94",[1313],"3c9aee0caeb5","Code of Canon Law, Book IV, Part I, Title VII: Marriage (canons 1055–1165)",{"_key":1316,"_type":46,"marks":1317,"text":1318},"ccc5f9e8a369",[],", Holy See",[1320],{"href":1321,"_key":1313,"_type":383},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.vatican.va\u002Farchive\u002Fcod-iuris-canonici\u002Feng\u002Fdocuments\u002Fcic_lib4-cann998-1165_en.html",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1323,"_type":42,"children":1324,"asset":7,"markDefs":1333,"style":108,"listItem":169,"level":170},"c84a550a1b46",[1325,1329],{"_key":1326,"_type":46,"marks":1327,"text":367},"2dea0658663a",[1328],"698ce1a47e10",{"_key":1330,"_type":46,"marks":1331,"text":1332},"ecabbc8f7d29",[],", Archdiocese of Chicago Office of Lifelong 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