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THE SACRAMENT OF MATRIMONY

“The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole life, is by its nature ordered toward the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring; this covenant between baptized persons has been raised by Christ the Lord to be the dignity of a sacrament” (CCC #1601).

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“Sacred Scripture begins with the creation of man and woman in the image and likeness of God and concludes with a vision of ‘the wedding-feast of the Lamb’ [...] Scripture speaks throughout of marriage and its ‘mystery,’ its institution and the meaning God has given it, its origin and its end, its various realizations throughout the history of salvation, the difficulties arising from sin and its renewal ‘in the Lord’ in the New Covenant of Christ and the Church.” (CCC #1602).

Planning a Wedding at the Basilica:

In order for a marriage to be celebrated in the Basilica Church:

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  • At least either the bride or groom must be a baptized and confirmed Catholic in good standing. (For non-parishioners, there is a fee associated with the use of the Basilica church.)

  • The ritual used for the marriage is always the Catholic rite.

  • Contact the parish no less than six (6) months before the intended date of marriage.

  • Complete the required diocesan marriage preparation.

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All marriages celebrated at the Basilica must be compliant with the marriage policy. No exceptions will be granted to any aspect of this policy. The Rector alone reserves the right to adjust any related fees, provided there is significant cause for this adjustment.

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MISSION STATEMENT

St. Mary Basilica Parish is a community of believers united by faith in Jesus Christ and committed to bringing about the kingdom of God. Parish members are encouraged to grow in faith through the celebration of the Eucharist and sacraments, by the study of the Sacred Scriptures and the Catholic Tradition, and by active participation in the ministries of the parish. Parish members are expected to be witnesses for their faith by loving support of one another and through service to the needy, the wider community, and the world mission of the Catholic Church.

CONTACT

Basilica Parish Office:

613 Main Street

Natchez, Mississippi 39120

phone 601.445.5616

fax  601.445.9631

email secretary@stmarybasilica.org

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For inquiries regarding weddings and baptisms, please contact the office.

SAFE ENVIRONMENT

The Basilica of Saint Mary is committed to providing a safe environment for all persons of every age, race, and state of life. In accordance with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People promulgated by the U.S. Bishops, the Diocese of Jackson encourages any victim of abuse by Clergy or Church Staff or Volunteers to come forward and begin the healing process. We encourage any victim to contact Erika Rojas, Victim Assistance coordinator at 601.326.3736.

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