[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":1556},["ShallowReactive",2],{"blog-catholic-wedding-requirements-diocese-of-fresno":3},{"primaryHeading":4,"author":5,"publishedDate":24,"headerImage":25,"body":39,"estimatedReadingTime":1506,"description":1507,"relatedBlogs":1508,"page":1537,"id":1551,"sanityType":1552,"sanityRevision":1553,"sanityKey":7,"sanityCreatedAt":1554,"sanityUpdatedAt":1555},"How to Get Married in the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Fresno (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","cde20a03-1957-4f9b-a7a6-27c6dca37d74","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-f895b65faff311905929d0f7bb911c08e8409adb-8041x2735-jpg","f895b65faff311905929d0f7bb911c08e8409adb","images\u002Fh2bgtcnu\u002Fproduction\u002Ff895b65faff311905929d0f7bb911c08e8409adb-8041x2735.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.sanity.io\u002Fimages\u002Fh2bgtcnu\u002Fproduction\u002Ff895b65faff311905929d0f7bb911c08e8409adb-8041x2735.jpg","delaneylucien_wedding-706.jpg",4502723,{"dimensions":34,"location":7},{"height":35,"width":36,"aspectRatio":37},2735,8041,2.940036563071298,"109cf041-33c6-4555-bd2f-682b2e55afe4",[40,51,132,164,172,180,188,202,214,226,238,246,254,262,270,294,307,319,331,343,355,367,379,387,414,422,434,446,458,466,478,490,502,510,522,534,542,553,565,573,589,597,609,621,633,645,657,677,689,701,709,725,732,744,756,767,778,789,801,809,821,829,841,853,865,877,889,908,920,928,936,944,967,975,991,999,1011,1023,1031,1058,1077,1085,1093,1109,1144,1152,1161,1169,1177,1185,1193,1201,1209,1217,1225,1233,1241,1249,1257,1265,1273,1281,1289,1297,1320,1328,1336,1351,1364,1377,1390,1404,1419,1434,1449,1464,1478,1492],{"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":125,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"6c30b2b9437a",[54,58,63,67,72,76,81,85,89,93,97,101,105,109,113,117,121],{"_key":55,"_type":46,"marks":56,"text":57},"3eb146685257",[],"To get married in the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Fresno, contact your parish priest ",{"_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",[],". The Diocese's ",{"_key":68,"_type":46,"marks":69,"text":71},"8b9de465e150",[70],"bd9cad3c2d6d","marriage policy",{"_key":73,"_type":46,"marks":74,"text":75},"972a16419f82",[]," asks for six months, and its ",{"_key":77,"_type":46,"marks":78,"text":80},"17fc07a0ca6e",[79],"08226c031199","Sacraments page",{"_key":82,"_type":46,"marks":83,"text":84},"3b8f37f8a88b",[]," sets four months as the absolute minimum. You will need a ",{"_key":86,"_type":46,"marks":87,"text":88},"9a1d815ef6d1",[61],"baptismal certificate",{"_key":90,"_type":46,"marks":91,"text":92},"8fad06cb0fb3",[]," from each baptized partner (the Catholic's ",{"_key":94,"_type":46,"marks":95,"text":96},"b74d32e70629",[61],"issued within six months of the wedding",{"_key":98,"_type":46,"marks":99,"text":100},"b38aa65ed389",[],"), ",{"_key":102,"_type":46,"marks":103,"text":104},"6b658b8148f6",[61],"First Communion and Confirmation certificates",{"_key":106,"_type":46,"marks":107,"text":108},"72ff386ecbe0",[],", at least ",{"_key":110,"_type":46,"marks":111,"text":112},"473796da1dac",[61],"8 hours of formal marriage preparation",{"_key":114,"_type":46,"marks":115,"text":116},"de8acf36d58b",[],", and a ",{"_key":118,"_type":46,"marks":119,"text":120},"c24101a9e71f",[61],"California marriage license",{"_key":122,"_type":46,"marks":123,"text":124},"28dfce4a2bbd",[]," used within 90 days.",[126,129],{"_key":70,"_type":127,"href":128},"link","https:\u002F\u002Fdioceseoffresno.org\u002Four-50-year-history\u002Fdiocesan-policy-for-marriage\u002F",{"href":130,"_key":79,"_type":127},"https:\u002F\u002Fdioceseoffresno.org\u002Fsacraments","normal",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":133,"_type":42,"children":134,"asset":7,"markDefs":163,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"43b79a8dca03",[135,139,143,147,151,155,159],{"_key":136,"_type":46,"marks":137,"text":138},"4722571aa876",[],"If only one of you is Catholic, you can still marry in the Church. Under canon law, a baptized Christian partner needs ",{"_key":140,"_type":46,"marks":141,"text":142},"371e27cd8130",[61],"permission for a mixed marriage",{"_key":144,"_type":46,"marks":145,"text":146},"c374f50bea63",[],", and an unbaptized partner needs a ",{"_key":148,"_type":46,"marks":149,"text":150},"1a2a562b0f79",[61],"dispensation from disparity of worship",{"_key":152,"_type":46,"marks":153,"text":154},"614217be3111",[],". The Diocese of Fresno does ",{"_key":156,"_type":46,"marks":157,"text":158},"5be618c26797",[61],"not",{"_key":160,"_type":46,"marks":161,"text":162},"580dd8f56413",[]," allow weddings outdoors, in private homes, or in wedding chapels. 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":165,"_type":42,"children":166,"asset":7,"markDefs":171,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"759cbacfb3d0",[167],{"_key":168,"_type":46,"marks":169,"text":170},"0b1fce9ff57f",[],"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":173,"_type":42,"children":174,"asset":7,"markDefs":179,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"ec1bf91e1d4c",[175],{"_key":176,"_type":46,"marks":177,"text":178},"1ff489463e85",[],"What makes a Catholic marriage valid",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":181,"_type":42,"children":182,"asset":7,"markDefs":187,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"4b0d8d5288f1",[183],{"_key":184,"_type":46,"marks":185,"text":186},"142c60e7a113",[],"Every requirement in this checklist serves four conditions the Church holds for a valid marriage, everywhere in the world:",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":189,"_type":42,"children":190,"asset":7,"markDefs":199,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"5c94dc98d2c1",[191,195],{"_key":192,"_type":46,"marks":193,"text":194},"a0eed453dd32",[61],"You are both free to marry.",{"_key":196,"_type":46,"marks":197,"text":198},"e2ac9e574f7a",[]," Neither of you is bound by a prior marriage or another impediment (canon 1085).",[],"bullet","1",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":203,"_type":42,"children":204,"asset":7,"markDefs":213,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"a9480bbb2599",[205,209],{"_key":206,"_type":46,"marks":207,"text":208},"313993cd59bf",[61],"You both consent freely.",{"_key":210,"_type":46,"marks":211,"text":212},"11ceb45ed1f0",[]," No one is pressuring or forcing either of you.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":215,"_type":42,"children":216,"asset":7,"markDefs":225,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"daf6146d3f31",[217,221],{"_key":218,"_type":46,"marks":219,"text":220},"c5e73a578a8e",[61],"You both intend marriage as the Church understands it:",{"_key":222,"_type":46,"marks":223,"text":224},"fc374a15544d",[]," 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":227,"_type":42,"children":228,"asset":7,"markDefs":237,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"741247294739",[229,233],{"_key":230,"_type":46,"marks":231,"text":232},"ddd13b982ef8",[61],"You exchange consent in the proper form:",{"_key":234,"_type":46,"marks":235,"text":236},"614f19db3ad0",[]," 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":239,"_type":42,"children":240,"asset":7,"markDefs":245,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"29a35d65a441",[241],{"_key":242,"_type":46,"marks":243,"text":244},"d588a2bc372f",[],"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":247,"_type":42,"children":248,"asset":7,"markDefs":253,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"ab9035a240ae",[249],{"_key":250,"_type":46,"marks":251,"text":252},"5af35ec42e08",[],"When can we get married?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":255,"_type":42,"children":256,"asset":7,"markDefs":261,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"aefcefc89849",[257],{"_key":258,"_type":46,"marks":259,"text":260},"b3aa4458a885",[],"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":263,"_type":42,"children":264,"asset":7,"markDefs":269,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"a28d9bf00273",[265],{"_key":266,"_type":46,"marks":267,"text":268},"1247a5e5a5ab",[],"Timeline: how far in advance to start",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":271,"_type":42,"children":272,"asset":7,"markDefs":293,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"b02ba3d70628",[273,277,281,285,289],{"_key":274,"_type":46,"marks":275,"text":276},"88bd2bcfbe01",[],"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). In the Diocese of Fresno, couples must contact the priest ",{"_key":278,"_type":46,"marks":279,"text":280},"3eabbaa80dd4",[61],"at least six months",{"_key":282,"_type":46,"marks":283,"text":284},"765629d4beef",[]," ahead. The priest may set a date at your first meeting, but the Diocese's policy lets him delay the wedding if serious issues come up later, such as refusing preparation or not being free to marry. Couples may appeal a delay to the Bishop. Contact your parish ",{"_key":286,"_type":46,"marks":287,"text":288},"451b6123fdf7",[61],"before",{"_key":290,"_type":46,"marks":291,"text":292},"ece6fd5166e6",[]," booking a reception venue.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":295,"_type":42,"children":296,"asset":7,"markDefs":305,"style":131,"listItem":306,"level":201},"c4b0d7c524a5",[297,301],{"_key":298,"_type":46,"marks":299,"text":300},"38388e944239",[61],"9 to 12 months out: contact your parish.",{"_key":302,"_type":46,"marks":303,"text":304},"5304af42e12f",[]," Meet the priest for your initial session and reserve the church date.",[],"number",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":308,"_type":42,"children":309,"asset":7,"markDefs":318,"style":131,"listItem":306,"level":201},"ce170837b8a3",[310,314],{"_key":311,"_type":46,"marks":312,"text":313},"0e51c6a7ee39",[61],"9 to 12 months out: register for marriage preparation.",{"_key":315,"_type":46,"marks":316,"text":317},"d2613aa2e4f9",[]," Ask your parish which Diocese-approved program it uses, and book early.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":320,"_type":42,"children":321,"asset":7,"markDefs":330,"style":131,"listItem":306,"level":201},"e9c33602f8ac",[322,326],{"_key":323,"_type":46,"marks":324,"text":325},"66b250c187fc",[61],"About 6 months out: gather documents.",{"_key":327,"_type":46,"marks":328,"text":329},"10f1448aaa9e",[]," Request new baptismal certificates so the Catholic's is dated within six months of the wedding. Gather First Communion and Confirmation certificates.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":332,"_type":42,"children":333,"asset":7,"markDefs":342,"style":131,"listItem":306,"level":201},"366e508ebad7",[334,338],{"_key":335,"_type":46,"marks":336,"text":337},"9132f16287e4",[61],"6 to 3 months out: preparation and interviews.",{"_key":339,"_type":46,"marks":340,"text":341},"b7c9e059a0ee",[]," Finish your program and the prenuptial investigation with your priest, then have your final session with him. The Diocese also has the banns of marriage announced in your parishes.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":344,"_type":42,"children":345,"asset":7,"markDefs":354,"style":131,"listItem":306,"level":201},"a491ea1fca65",[346,350],{"_key":347,"_type":46,"marks":348,"text":349},"7fcda7cad415",[61],"2 to 3 months out: permissions and liturgy.",{"_key":351,"_type":46,"marks":352,"text":353},"e27a654821d0",[]," Your priest requests any mixed-marriage permission or dispensation. Plan readings and music.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":356,"_type":42,"children":357,"asset":7,"markDefs":366,"style":131,"listItem":306,"level":201},"beb73f22faf8",[358,362],{"_key":359,"_type":46,"marks":360,"text":361},"2493757750a9",[61],"Within 90 days of the wedding: get your marriage license.",{"_key":363,"_type":46,"marks":364,"text":365},"23be43cf2fde",[]," A California license is valid for 90 days. Bring it to your parish before the wedding.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":368,"_type":42,"children":369,"asset":7,"markDefs":378,"style":131,"listItem":306,"level":201},"6dad95a76d79",[370,374],{"_key":371,"_type":46,"marks":372,"text":373},"89fa8fb5d27b",[61],"After the wedding.",{"_key":375,"_type":46,"marks":376,"text":377},"bf3c434308bc",[]," 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":380,"_type":42,"children":381,"asset":7,"markDefs":386,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"5cab663f1c97",[382],{"_key":383,"_type":46,"marks":384,"text":385},"9562e5d7b875",[],"Checklist: if you are both Catholic",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":388,"_type":42,"children":389,"asset":7,"markDefs":411,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"ae34cac5b68c",[390,394,399,403,407],{"_key":391,"_type":46,"marks":392,"text":393},"ff50382567b8",[],"These items come from the Diocese of Fresno's ",{"_key":395,"_type":46,"marks":396,"text":398},"7e57827050a8",[397],"2369ff5e9ff0","Diocesan Policy for Marriage",{"_key":400,"_type":46,"marks":401,"text":402},"c17a1745d6d8",[]," and its ",{"_key":404,"_type":46,"marks":405,"text":80},"27201c11f735",[406],"dc710c0fd195",{"_key":408,"_type":46,"marks":409,"text":410},"28f4a0a04dc4",[],". Everything in the later checklists builds on this one.",[412,413],{"_type":127,"href":128,"_key":397},{"href":130,"_key":406,"_type":127},{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":415,"_type":42,"children":416,"asset":7,"markDefs":421,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"628010435a10",[417],{"_key":418,"_type":46,"marks":419,"text":420},"98ae6c12ace8",[61],"Sacramental records (each of you)",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":423,"_type":42,"children":424,"asset":7,"markDefs":433,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"405c877409a9",[425,429],{"_key":426,"_type":46,"marks":427,"text":428},"988c61b1cd22",[61],"Baptismal certificate dated within six months of the wedding.",{"_key":430,"_type":46,"marks":431,"text":432},"77d2ff01cf99",[]," Request a new copy from the parish where you were baptized. It carries notations for First Communion, Confirmation, and any prior marriage, which is how the Church confirms you are free to marry.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":435,"_type":42,"children":436,"asset":7,"markDefs":445,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"ae2702f06b90",[437,441],{"_key":438,"_type":46,"marks":439,"text":440},"8da0f89897b9",[61],"First Communion and Confirmation certificates.",{"_key":442,"_type":46,"marks":443,"text":444},"f143dc5c0eed",[]," The Diocese asks for both.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":447,"_type":42,"children":448,"asset":7,"markDefs":457,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"c0398976e334",[449,453],{"_key":450,"_type":46,"marks":451,"text":452},"1d53b88139b9",[61],"Not confirmed yet?",{"_key":454,"_type":46,"marks":455,"text":456},"e281ae849217",[]," 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":459,"_type":42,"children":460,"asset":7,"markDefs":465,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"5715a4161293",[461],{"_key":462,"_type":46,"marks":463,"text":464},"c4c2444ea7c8",[61],"Freedom to marry",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":467,"_type":42,"children":468,"asset":7,"markDefs":477,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"00d474273ca3",[469,473],{"_key":470,"_type":46,"marks":471,"text":472},"4b221c8eaee9",[61],"Prenuptial investigation.",{"_key":474,"_type":46,"marks":475,"text":476},"287d6f4cc69a",[]," Canon 1067 calls for an examination of the couple before marriage, following norms set by the bishops' conference. Your priest will tell you which interviews and witness statements the Diocese's forms call for.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":479,"_type":42,"children":480,"asset":7,"markDefs":489,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"f8cd436d76e2",[481,485],{"_key":482,"_type":46,"marks":483,"text":484},"b8dbf42d47cc",[61],"Death certificate of a former spouse",{"_key":486,"_type":46,"marks":487,"text":488},"b83ce037e5ed",[],", if either of you is widowed.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":491,"_type":42,"children":492,"asset":7,"markDefs":501,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"1b3de9a1fa6f",[493,497],{"_key":494,"_type":46,"marks":495,"text":496},"c30f8026695f",[61],"Banns of marriage",{"_key":498,"_type":46,"marks":499,"text":500},"81f72dbc2134",[],", announced in your parishes as the Diocese's policy directs.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":503,"_type":42,"children":504,"asset":7,"markDefs":509,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"d7774c66e0a8",[505],{"_key":506,"_type":46,"marks":507,"text":508},"a013deda4e16",[61],"Preparation",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":511,"_type":42,"children":512,"asset":7,"markDefs":521,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"5fb82720797d",[513,517],{"_key":514,"_type":46,"marks":515,"text":516},"81f6a39231a7",[61],"An initial session with your priest, a Diocese-approved marriage preparation program, and a final session with your priest.",{"_key":518,"_type":46,"marks":519,"text":520},"32eb9be578c7",[]," The Diocese requires \"a minimum of 8 hours\" of formal preparation (see below).",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":523,"_type":42,"children":524,"asset":7,"markDefs":533,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"ec24c754108f",[525,529],{"_key":526,"_type":46,"marks":527,"text":528},"295bc333e861",[61],"Under 19?",{"_key":530,"_type":46,"marks":531,"text":532},"f4188a14be62",[]," The Diocese requires individual counseling before the wedding can be arranged.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":535,"_type":42,"children":536,"asset":7,"markDefs":541,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"995400257ad1",[537],{"_key":538,"_type":46,"marks":539,"text":540},"eb2287c5421e",[61],"Civil and logistics",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":543,"_type":42,"children":544,"asset":7,"markDefs":552,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"5cecedd96831",[545,548],{"_key":546,"_type":46,"marks":547,"text":120},"7d1552fbe43b",[61],{"_key":549,"_type":46,"marks":550,"text":551},"1ca304fc6d82",[],", valid for 90 days.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":554,"_type":42,"children":555,"asset":7,"markDefs":564,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"3d4c4eb93eff",[556,560],{"_key":557,"_type":46,"marks":558,"text":559},"fc3ee0f3eab0",[61],"Liturgy planning.",{"_key":561,"_type":46,"marks":562,"text":563},"ce88d4e80839",[]," When both of you are Catholic, the wedding is normally celebrated within Mass.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":566,"_type":42,"children":567,"asset":7,"markDefs":572,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"913ee0c53cb8",[568],{"_key":569,"_type":46,"marks":570,"text":571},"3da90ed42f1a",[],"Checklist: if one of you is Catholic and the other is a baptized Christian",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":574,"_type":42,"children":575,"asset":7,"markDefs":588,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"fa5d11b7e948",[576,580,584],{"_key":577,"_type":46,"marks":578,"text":579},"1429f26b4776",[],"A Catholic marrying a baptized Protestant, Orthodox, or other Christian is a ",{"_key":581,"_type":46,"marks":582,"text":583},"bb5e15ed6269",[61],"mixed marriage",{"_key":585,"_type":46,"marks":586,"text":587},"d0e67c69dee1",[],". It is valid and sacramental. Canon 1124 requires the \"express permission of the competent authority.\" Your priest or deacon requests it as part of your marriage file.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":590,"_type":42,"children":591,"asset":7,"markDefs":596,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"2031c40db9b4",[592],{"_key":593,"_type":46,"marks":594,"text":595},"885fc2b6d2c5",[],"Complete everything in the both-Catholic checklist, plus:",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":598,"_type":42,"children":599,"asset":7,"markDefs":608,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"2a458cbfedb0",[600,604],{"_key":601,"_type":46,"marks":602,"text":603},"a8e520de435d",[61],"Baptismal certificate from the non-Catholic partner's church.",{"_key":605,"_type":46,"marks":606,"text":607},"f26479ac1b1e",[]," The Diocese asks for a certificate from each baptized party; only the Catholic's must be recently issued.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":610,"_type":42,"children":611,"asset":7,"markDefs":620,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"f6e06c52c49f",[612,616],{"_key":613,"_type":46,"marks":614,"text":615},"871543dac043",[61],"The Catholic party's promises.",{"_key":617,"_type":46,"marks":618,"text":619},"9b49df57c59a",[]," 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 Diocese of Fresno's policy repeats this, and says the non-Catholic partner must be informed of the Catholic's obligation. The non-Catholic makes no promise themselves. Both of you are instructed on the purposes and essential properties of marriage.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":622,"_type":42,"children":623,"asset":7,"markDefs":632,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"b09bbadcc32a",[624,628],{"_key":625,"_type":46,"marks":626,"text":627},"edcd36386821",[61],"The rite.",{"_key":629,"_type":46,"marks":630,"text":631},"c1598a0f4efb",[]," 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":634,"_type":42,"children":635,"asset":7,"markDefs":644,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"abf3fec21bbe",[636,640],{"_key":637,"_type":46,"marks":638,"text":639},"b683337ea2df",[61],"One wedding, not two.",{"_key":641,"_type":46,"marks":642,"text":643},"66244fcca39a",[]," 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. The Diocese of Fresno's policy says the same: no two ceremonies and no use of both rites in one ceremony.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":646,"_type":42,"children":647,"asset":7,"markDefs":656,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"7394847fd9b4",[648,652],{"_key":649,"_type":46,"marks":650,"text":651},"5f98a65e688e",[61],"The other partner's minister (optional).",{"_key":653,"_type":46,"marks":654,"text":655},"e64d702753a1",[]," In the Diocese of Fresno, a non-Catholic minister may take part in the Catholic service with the Bishop's permission. The Catholic priest or deacon receives your vows.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":658,"_type":42,"children":659,"asset":7,"markDefs":676,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"96a43ae8cc93",[660,664,668,672],{"_key":661,"_type":46,"marks":662,"text":663},"3f761efa2197",[61],"Want the wedding in the other partner's church?",{"_key":665,"_type":46,"marks":666,"text":667},"10643985c3cf",[]," Under canon 1127, that requires a ",{"_key":669,"_type":46,"marks":670,"text":671},"0562568cc69b",[61],"dispensation from canonical form",{"_key":673,"_type":46,"marks":674,"text":675},"8dcd969b6662",[]," from the Bishop, given when grave difficulties stand in the way of the Catholic form.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":678,"_type":42,"children":679,"asset":7,"markDefs":688,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"0f12a18ff6b6",[680,684],{"_key":681,"_type":46,"marks":682,"text":683},"01d738602ab6",[61],"Marrying an Orthodox Christian:",{"_key":685,"_type":46,"marks":686,"text":687},"b535122c9a56",[]," canon 1127 says the Catholic form is required only for liceity in this case, but a sacred minister must be present for the marriage to be valid. Talk with your priest early about where and by whom the wedding will be celebrated.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":690,"_type":42,"children":691,"asset":7,"markDefs":700,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"5496dc1110c1",[692,696],{"_key":693,"_type":46,"marks":694,"text":695},"11413a9bedd4",[61],"A Catholic who no longer practices the faith:",{"_key":697,"_type":46,"marks":698,"text":699},"080ae7c99b26",[]," the Diocese of Fresno follows the same procedure it uses for interfaith marriages.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":702,"_type":42,"children":703,"asset":7,"markDefs":708,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"474a3ceddf2d",[704],{"_key":705,"_type":46,"marks":706,"text":707},"839f1223b513",[],"Checklist: if one of you is Catholic and the other is not baptized",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":710,"_type":42,"children":711,"asset":7,"markDefs":724,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"e1e3ef7ddc76",[712,716,720],{"_key":713,"_type":46,"marks":714,"text":715},"7c44ab4220a7",[],"A Catholic marrying someone who was never baptized (for example, someone who is Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, or of no religion) needs a ",{"_key":717,"_type":46,"marks":718,"text":719},"8a0b36d8393a",[61],"dispensation from the impediment of disparity of worship",{"_key":721,"_type":46,"marks":722,"text":723},"b92d21df306f",[],", also called disparity of cult. Under canon 1086, the marriage is invalid without it. The Diocese of Fresno's published policy handles these weddings under its interfaith rules, so the steps below follow canon law. Your priest or deacon requests the dispensation from the Diocese. The marriage is valid and holy, though not a sacrament.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":726,"_type":42,"children":727,"asset":7,"markDefs":731,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"3e357900f7f9",[728],{"_key":729,"_type":46,"marks":730,"text":595},"9382922fe15a",[],[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":733,"_type":42,"children":734,"asset":7,"markDefs":743,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"182530beb45f",[735,739],{"_key":736,"_type":46,"marks":737,"text":738},"7914c8dcd19f",[61],"No baptismal certificate",{"_key":740,"_type":46,"marks":741,"text":742},"6835ceb81f9d",[]," is needed from the unbaptized partner. They still take part in the prenuptial investigation.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":745,"_type":42,"children":746,"asset":7,"markDefs":755,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"693d6c6fa611",[747,751],{"_key":748,"_type":46,"marks":749,"text":750},"a8b318d0752b",[61],"Petition for a dispensation from disparity of worship",{"_key":752,"_type":46,"marks":753,"text":754},"5ab36e595ed3",[],", submitted by your priest or deacon. Allow extra time, since it goes to the Diocese.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":757,"_type":42,"children":758,"asset":7,"markDefs":766,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"a748ac619e63",[759,762],{"_key":760,"_type":46,"marks":761,"text":615},"dd24778eedb3",[61],{"_key":763,"_type":46,"marks":764,"text":765},"0ddebaa4b71a",[]," 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":768,"_type":42,"children":769,"asset":7,"markDefs":777,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"ba6c6712303a",[770,773],{"_key":771,"_type":46,"marks":772,"text":627},"a56cfbf24050",[61],{"_key":774,"_type":46,"marks":775,"text":776},"0f841931e9ee",[]," The wedding is celebrated outside of Mass, using the rite for marriage between a Catholic and a non-Christian.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":779,"_type":42,"children":780,"asset":7,"markDefs":788,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"310c3fa7f104",[781,784],{"_key":782,"_type":46,"marks":783,"text":639},"ccf356dc8907",[61],{"_key":785,"_type":46,"marks":786,"text":787},"1bf9dc96925e",[]," 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":790,"_type":42,"children":791,"asset":7,"markDefs":800,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"2ef96c006f61",[792,796],{"_key":793,"_type":46,"marks":794,"text":795},"894a30b187ef",[61],"Location.",{"_key":797,"_type":46,"marks":798,"text":799},"23e272d8567d",[]," Canon 1118 allows this wedding \"in a church or in another suitable place.\" The Diocese of Fresno, however, does not permit weddings outdoors, in private homes, or in wedding chapels, so plan on a church.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":802,"_type":42,"children":803,"asset":7,"markDefs":808,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"dfde3ff350bf",[804],{"_key":805,"_type":46,"marks":806,"text":807},"766e474ebc19",[],"If either of you was married before, or you are already civilly married",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":810,"_type":42,"children":811,"asset":7,"markDefs":820,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"db20dc815fe7",[812,816],{"_key":813,"_type":46,"marks":814,"text":815},"134cec5b227c",[61],"Previously married, Catholic or not.",{"_key":817,"_type":46,"marks":818,"text":819},"ceda71710434",[]," 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. Even if the earlier marriage was invalid, canon 1085 says you may not marry again until its nullity or dissolution is \"established legitimately and certainly.\" In Fresno, these cases go to the Diocese's Office of Canonical Services\u002FMarriage Tribunal. Start with your parish priest. This applies even if your fiancé's earlier marriage was between two non-Catholics.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":822,"_type":42,"children":823,"asset":7,"markDefs":828,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"a6f20cf35b58",[824],{"_key":825,"_type":46,"marks":826,"text":827},"19108ce21ea3",[],"What the Tribunal handles:",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":830,"_type":42,"children":831,"asset":7,"markDefs":840,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"17e0f8102383",[832,836],{"_key":833,"_type":46,"marks":834,"text":835},"8a63ffd0f9d5",[61],"Prior spouse has died:",{"_key":837,"_type":46,"marks":838,"text":839},"03c7d605e770",[]," no case is needed. Bring the death certificate, which the Diocese's policy requires.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":842,"_type":42,"children":843,"asset":7,"markDefs":852,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"680a2a935d62",[844,848],{"_key":845,"_type":46,"marks":846,"text":847},"c0e9ed2662e9",[61],"A Catholic married outside the Church without a dispensation (lack of canonical form):",{"_key":849,"_type":46,"marks":850,"text":851},"3c83d9441fa5",[]," handled through a documentary process. Ask your priest what to gather.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":854,"_type":42,"children":855,"asset":7,"markDefs":864,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"e70666aa9385",[856,860],{"_key":857,"_type":46,"marks":858,"text":859},"7b3a7c52fa17",[61],"Consent may have been defective (formal declaration of nullity, often called an annulment):",{"_key":861,"_type":46,"marks":862,"text":863},"dd5936b82481",[]," you submit written testimony and name witnesses who knew the marriage.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":866,"_type":42,"children":867,"asset":7,"markDefs":876,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"63f2fc3d3348",[868,872],{"_key":869,"_type":46,"marks":870,"text":871},"2a250f02bad0",[61],"Both spouses were unbaptized, and you now seek baptism (Pauline Privilege):",{"_key":873,"_type":46,"marks":874,"text":875},"008d610461e3",[]," canon 1143 allows such a marriage to be dissolved in favor of the faith of the newly baptized spouse.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":878,"_type":42,"children":879,"asset":7,"markDefs":888,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"4906747b6dba",[880,884],{"_key":881,"_type":46,"marks":882,"text":883},"ed3043e458fc",[61],"At least one spouse was unbaptized throughout (Favor of the Faith):",{"_key":885,"_type":46,"marks":886,"text":887},"c8fec8b8d9c6",[]," ask the Tribunal how to begin.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":890,"_type":42,"children":891,"asset":7,"markDefs":905,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"7c96b7e99aca",[892,896,901],{"_key":893,"_type":46,"marks":894,"text":895},"b2536c4a37ea",[],"The ",{"_key":897,"_type":46,"marks":898,"text":900},"c88afed4057d",[899],"bb02f512c4c3","USCCB",{"_key":902,"_type":46,"marks":903,"text":904},"a9708e46d534",[]," says the length of a case \"will depend upon the type of process that is followed.\" Pope Francis has asked dioceses to make tribunal services free whenever possible, and where fees apply they \"may be reduced or even waived in cases of financial difficulty.\" The Diocese of Fresno does not publish its Tribunal timelines or fees online in pages we could confirm, so call the Diocese at (559) 488-7400 (Monday to Thursday).",[906],{"_type":127,"href":907,"_key":899},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.usccb.org\u002Ftopics\u002Fmarriage-and-family-life-ministries\u002Fannulment",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":909,"_type":42,"children":910,"asset":7,"markDefs":919,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"0ef8f7fd5646",[911,915],{"_key":912,"_type":46,"marks":913,"text":914},"309d27a0c3d7",[61],"Already civilly married to each other (convalidation).",{"_key":916,"_type":46,"marks":917,"text":918},"37bb4bf50b52",[]," 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. The Diocese of Fresno asks couples who are validating a marriage to follow the same preparation process. Its policy adds that at least one of you must be a baptized Catholic, that any other sacraments of initiation wait until your marriage is blessed, and that \"a marriage license is not needed if the couple is already civilly married.\"",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":921,"_type":42,"children":922,"asset":7,"markDefs":927,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"0f9a8acd4e10",[923],{"_key":924,"_type":46,"marks":925,"text":926},"bc59944528c0",[],"Marriage preparation (Pre-Cana) options in the Diocese of Fresno",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":929,"_type":42,"children":930,"asset":7,"markDefs":935,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"0cd60ea2622b",[931],{"_key":932,"_type":46,"marks":933,"text":934},"5048bf7b539b",[],"Canon 1063 calls every diocese to prepare couples for marriage. In the Diocese of Fresno, every couple completes three steps:",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":937,"_type":42,"children":938,"asset":7,"markDefs":943,"style":131,"listItem":306,"level":201},"eb5c80bacd64",[939],{"_key":940,"_type":46,"marks":941,"text":942},"7a0e958ca9ba",[61],"An initial session with your parish priest.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":945,"_type":42,"children":946,"asset":7,"markDefs":964,"style":131,"listItem":306,"level":201},"116598543881",[947,951,955,960],{"_key":948,"_type":46,"marks":949,"text":950},"87f7da4bd9ca",[61],"A Diocese-approved marriage preparation program.",{"_key":952,"_type":46,"marks":953,"text":954},"0e8f284d82e5",[]," The Diocese's ",{"_key":956,"_type":46,"marks":957,"text":959},"d9f114822f53",[958],"8201f5f59b22","Family Life office",{"_key":961,"_type":46,"marks":962,"text":963},"118a2f923996",[]," keeps the list of approved programs. Ask your parish which ones it accepts and whether sessions are offered in Spanish.",[965],{"_type":127,"href":966,"_key":958},"https:\u002F\u002Fdioceseoffresno.org\u002Ffamily-life",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":968,"_type":42,"children":969,"asset":7,"markDefs":974,"style":131,"listItem":306,"level":201},"675d3c365296",[970],{"_key":971,"_type":46,"marks":972,"text":973},"dca0acdabacc",[61],"A final session with your priest.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":976,"_type":42,"children":977,"asset":7,"markDefs":990,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"0a2c98326856",[978,982,986],{"_key":979,"_type":46,"marks":980,"text":981},"f10c1eb0e38a",[],"The Diocese requires ",{"_key":983,"_type":46,"marks":984,"text":985},"91d6e3e9de99",[61],"at least 8 hours",{"_key":987,"_type":46,"marks":988,"text":989},"94343f07f814",[]," of formal preparation. The priest also assesses your readiness and the faith of the Catholic party. Couples under 19 must receive individual counseling first. For questions, call the Diocese of Fresno at (559) 488-7400 (Monday to Thursday).",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":992,"_type":42,"children":993,"asset":7,"markDefs":998,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"a8496b5252e3",[994],{"_key":995,"_type":46,"marks":996,"text":997},"14fc9e8fc965",[],"Costs, venues, and your California marriage license",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1000,"_type":42,"children":1001,"asset":7,"markDefs":1010,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"42c1ef48e8d5",[1002,1006],{"_key":1003,"_type":46,"marks":1004,"text":1005},"90b2956b8c0c",[61],"Church fees.",{"_key":1007,"_type":46,"marks":1008,"text":1009},"50fd85d51695",[]," Fees are set by each parish, not by the Diocese, 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. 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":1012,"_type":42,"children":1013,"asset":7,"markDefs":1022,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"43ff3d1a85dd",[1014,1018],{"_key":1015,"_type":46,"marks":1016,"text":1017},"ab73344a54b8",[61],"Can we get married outdoors or at our venue?",{"_key":1019,"_type":46,"marks":1020,"text":1021},"506eb758588d",[]," No. The Diocese of Fresno's policy is explicit: \"Weddings in private homes, 'out-doors' or in wedding chapels are not permitted in this Diocese.\" The wedding should take place in the parish church of one of you. That matches canon 1118, which says a wedding between two Catholics, or between a Catholic and a baptized Christian, \"is to be celebrated in a parish church.\" Plan the ceremony at the church and the reception at your venue.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1024,"_type":42,"children":1025,"asset":7,"markDefs":1030,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"a53fabf3e3fc",[1026],{"_key":1027,"_type":46,"marks":1028,"text":1029},"2181655238a6",[61],"California marriage license:",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1032,"_type":42,"children":1033,"asset":7,"markDefs":1055,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"1998ff002d4d",[1034,1038,1043,1047,1051],{"_key":1035,"_type":46,"marks":1036,"text":1037},"750c4ccc9bc2",[],"In Fresno County, book with the ",{"_key":1039,"_type":46,"marks":1040,"text":1042},"ef8cc07a30f2",[1041],"edd450f0fd0a","Fresno County Clerk",{"_key":1044,"_type":46,"marks":1045,"text":1046},"026212922f83",[],". Appointments are scheduled online only, and the license is issued the same day. Fees are ",{"_key":1048,"_type":46,"marks":1049,"text":1050},"9f0475523327",[61],"$58 for a public license and $69 for a confidential license",{"_key":1052,"_type":46,"marks":1053,"text":1054},"9020ff9ab5c2",[]," (cash or card; no checks or $100 bills).",[1056],{"_key":1041,"_type":127,"href":1057},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.fresnocountyca.gov\u002FI-Want-To\u002FGet-a-Marriage-License",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1059,"_type":42,"children":1060,"asset":7,"markDefs":1074,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"119ce1805081",[1061,1065,1070],{"_key":1062,"_type":46,"marks":1063,"text":1064},"89a212c136e0",[],"In Tulare County, complete the ",{"_key":1066,"_type":46,"marks":1067,"text":1069},"21e843e42caf",[1068],"8181369147eb","Tulare County Clerk",{"_key":1071,"_type":46,"marks":1072,"text":1073},"5958eeea163e",[]," online application first, then visit the Visalia office together within seven business days.",[1075],{"href":1076,"_key":1068,"_type":127},"https:\u002F\u002Ftularecounty.ca.gov\u002Fassessor\u002Fcounty-clerk-recorder\u002Fmarriage-license",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1078,"_type":42,"children":1079,"asset":7,"markDefs":1084,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"48f45e9953d2",[1080],{"_key":1081,"_type":46,"marks":1082,"text":1083},"3e89e117dac3",[],"In Kern, Kings, Madera, Merced, Mariposa, or Inyo County, apply with your own county clerk. A license may be obtained from any California county and is filed in the county that issued it.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1086,"_type":42,"children":1087,"asset":7,"markDefs":1092,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"8b10d5704f32",[1088],{"_key":1089,"_type":46,"marks":1090,"text":1091},"702c286218b8",[],"Both of you bring a physical government photo ID. Fresno County does not accept phone photos or photocopies, and asks for your divorce judgment if a divorce was finalized in the last 12 months.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1094,"_type":42,"children":1095,"asset":7,"markDefs":1108,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"8768a76afde6",[1096,1100,1104],{"_key":1097,"_type":46,"marks":1098,"text":1099},"4d71b41b3143",[],"The license is valid for ",{"_key":1101,"_type":46,"marks":1102,"text":1103},"fbdd9c96e9ec",[61],"90 days",{"_key":1105,"_type":46,"marks":1106,"text":1107},"ce9efcbb4e59",[],", so time your appointment inside that window.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1110,"_type":42,"children":1111,"asset":7,"markDefs":1141,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"27cb8da01097",[1112,1116,1120,1124,1128,1132,1137],{"_key":1113,"_type":46,"marks":1114,"text":1115},"aaf90200b1f0",[],"A ",{"_key":1117,"_type":46,"marks":1118,"text":1119},"8dfad12dbc9a",[61],"public",{"_key":1121,"_type":46,"marks":1122,"text":1123},"ee874ca415ea",[]," license needs at least one witness to sign. A ",{"_key":1125,"_type":46,"marks":1126,"text":1127},"1a84a9d3d7c7",[61],"confidential",{"_key":1129,"_type":46,"marks":1130,"text":1131},"e0ccf05db76e",[]," license needs no witnesses but requires that you already live together (",{"_key":1133,"_type":46,"marks":1134,"text":1136},"e3c41d8cbbac",[1135],"43b42260e70f","California Department of Public Health",{"_key":1138,"_type":46,"marks":1139,"text":1140},"be0f1b66b5a9",[],"). Ask your parish which one it prefers.",[1142],{"_key":1135,"_type":127,"href":1143},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cdph.ca.gov\u002FPrograms\u002FCHSI\u002FPages\u002FTypes-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1145,"_type":42,"children":1146,"asset":7,"markDefs":1151,"style":50,"listItem":7,"level":7},"35eb9ad620ab",[1147],{"_key":1148,"_type":46,"marks":1149,"text":1150},"482145b89cd9",[],"Frequently asked questions",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1153,"_type":42,"children":1154,"asset":7,"markDefs":1159,"style":1160,"listItem":7,"level":7},"afff341ef40b",[1155],{"_key":1156,"_type":46,"marks":1157,"text":1158},"57c7b7b56ea7",[],"What makes a Catholic marriage valid?",[],"h3",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1162,"_type":42,"children":1163,"asset":7,"markDefs":1168,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"8162439472e6",[1164],{"_key":1165,"_type":46,"marks":1166,"text":1167},"da58a25d6b29",[],"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":1170,"_type":42,"children":1171,"asset":7,"markDefs":1176,"style":1160,"listItem":7,"level":7},"e87de7c421c7",[1172],{"_key":1173,"_type":46,"marks":1174,"text":1175},"40497d106c60",[],"How far in advance do we need to contact the church in Fresno?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1178,"_type":42,"children":1179,"asset":7,"markDefs":1184,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"a26017a0df49",[1180],{"_key":1181,"_type":46,"marks":1182,"text":1183},"0d01d89a40c0",[],"At least six months before your wedding. That is the Diocese of Fresno's policy, and four months is the absolute minimum. Contacting your parish 9 to 12 months ahead gives you time to secure your date and a preparation program.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1186,"_type":42,"children":1187,"asset":7,"markDefs":1192,"style":1160,"listItem":7,"level":7},"0b4946d483f3",[1188],{"_key":1189,"_type":46,"marks":1190,"text":1191},"d4506c6f7633",[],"What documents do we need to get married in the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Fresno?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1194,"_type":42,"children":1195,"asset":7,"markDefs":1200,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"217dc56811cd",[1196],{"_key":1197,"_type":46,"marks":1198,"text":1199},"556300e85ece",[],"Each baptized partner needs a baptismal certificate, and the Catholic's must be issued within six months of the wedding. You also need First Communion and Confirmation certificates, at least 8 hours of approved marriage preparation, and a California marriage license.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1202,"_type":42,"children":1203,"asset":7,"markDefs":1208,"style":1160,"listItem":7,"level":7},"295d430f801d",[1204],{"_key":1205,"_type":46,"marks":1206,"text":1207},"fad4a319dcb4",[],"Can a Catholic marry a non-Catholic in the Catholic Church?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1210,"_type":42,"children":1211,"asset":7,"markDefs":1216,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"b4a68d3aed99",[1212],{"_key":1213,"_type":46,"marks":1214,"text":1215},"711cbdc14f1f",[],"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":1218,"_type":42,"children":1219,"asset":7,"markDefs":1224,"style":1160,"listItem":7,"level":7},"1ca30279b6a6",[1220],{"_key":1221,"_type":46,"marks":1222,"text":1223},"8f976d7ce3c9",[],"Do I have to be confirmed to get married in the Catholic Church?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1226,"_type":42,"children":1227,"asset":7,"markDefs":1232,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"b0e6e21342b0",[1228],{"_key":1229,"_type":46,"marks":1230,"text":1231},"f1ee13432e61",[],"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":1234,"_type":42,"children":1235,"asset":7,"markDefs":1240,"style":1160,"listItem":7,"level":7},"09398babce3b",[1236],{"_key":1237,"_type":46,"marks":1238,"text":1239},"2628e767dcea",[],"Can we have a Catholic wedding outdoors in Fresno or Bakersfield?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1242,"_type":42,"children":1243,"asset":7,"markDefs":1248,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"8d72951f58d0",[1244],{"_key":1245,"_type":46,"marks":1246,"text":1247},"5e84d5a804eb",[],"No. The Diocese of Fresno does not permit weddings outdoors, in private homes, or in wedding chapels. The wedding should take place in the parish church of one of the couple.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1250,"_type":42,"children":1251,"asset":7,"markDefs":1256,"style":1160,"listItem":7,"level":7},"0ab520a04502",[1252],{"_key":1253,"_type":46,"marks":1254,"text":1255},"6e0625e97977",[],"How much does a Catholic church wedding cost in the Diocese of Fresno?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1258,"_type":42,"children":1259,"asset":7,"markDefs":1264,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"eedee623a689",[1260],{"_key":1261,"_type":46,"marks":1262,"text":1263},"5d594eea04e7",[],"Fees are set by each parish. Most charge a few hundred dollars, while large or landmark churches can charge $2,000 or more. Musicians, flowers, and photography are usually separate.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1266,"_type":42,"children":1267,"asset":7,"markDefs":1272,"style":1160,"listItem":7,"level":7},"0a36dc570131",[1268],{"_key":1269,"_type":46,"marks":1270,"text":1271},"f8e1cbceabde",[],"How long does an annulment take in the Diocese of Fresno?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1274,"_type":42,"children":1275,"asset":7,"markDefs":1280,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"ae9b35c7936c",[1276],{"_key":1277,"_type":46,"marks":1278,"text":1279},"5b99e61fecc0",[],"It depends on the type of case. Start with your parish priest, and do not set a wedding date until the Tribunal's decision is final.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1282,"_type":42,"children":1283,"asset":7,"markDefs":1288,"style":1160,"listItem":7,"level":7},"5a8a1a50aec3",[1284],{"_key":1285,"_type":46,"marks":1286,"text":1287},"aabc3fe12e47",[],"Is Catholic marriage preparation available in Spanish in the Diocese of Fresno?",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1290,"_type":42,"children":1291,"asset":7,"markDefs":1296,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"dfede256a6dc",[1292],{"_key":1293,"_type":46,"marks":1294,"text":1295},"8f54c7b5b2bc",[],"Ask your parish or the Diocese of Fresno at (559) 488-7400 which approved programs are offered in Spanish near you. Every program must add up to at least 8 hours of formal preparation.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1298,"_type":42,"children":1299,"asset":7,"markDefs":1317,"style":131,"listItem":7,"level":7},"ccc5f9e8a369",[1300,1304,1308,1313],{"_key":1301,"_type":46,"marks":1302,"text":1303},"f94d6808593f",[61],"Planning your Catholic wedding?",{"_key":1305,"_type":46,"marks":1306,"text":1307},"bfdd9ee3ac2a",[]," ",{"_key":1309,"_type":46,"marks":1310,"text":1312},"3c9aee0caeb5",[1311],"ecfe2790cebd","Cana",{"_key":1314,"_type":46,"marks":1315,"text":1316},"2999dd56cc94",[]," is built for couples getting married in the Church. 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Last checked October 27, 2026.",[],{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1337,"_type":42,"children":1338,"asset":7,"markDefs":1348,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"bc2cdd334cc7",[1339,1344],{"_key":1340,"_type":46,"marks":1341,"text":1343},"6966ee49f329",[1342],"c84a550a1b46","Code of Canon Law, Book IV, Part I, Title VII: Marriage (canons 1055–1165)",{"_key":1345,"_type":46,"marks":1346,"text":1347},"ab7fcd5f4822",[],", Holy See",[1349],{"_type":127,"href":1350,"_key":1342},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.vatican.va\u002Farchive\u002Fcod-iuris-canonici\u002Feng\u002Fdocuments\u002Fcic_lib4-cann998-1165_en.html",{"product":7,"products":7,"_key":1352,"_type":42,"children":1353,"asset":7,"markDefs":1362,"style":131,"listItem":200,"level":201},"61ee1bac27a7",[1354,1358],{"_key":1355,"_type":46,"marks":1356,"text":398},"28c1444d610b",[1357],"3f87cf8d446a",{"_key":1359,"_type":46,"marks":1360,"text":1361},"b386c991603f",[],", Diocese of 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