Marriage

Marriage

Congratulations as you prepare for the Sacrament of Marriage! We look forward to helping you prepare for this life-long journey of love.

  • What is required to be married at St. John Vianney?

    One or both of the bridal couple or their parents must be registered and participating members of St. John Vianney parish. If the couple wants to be married at St. John Vianney, but they do not live in the area, they must be registered and active in a parish where they reside and complete all pre-marital requirements at that parish.

  • What are the requirements of the Diocese of Davenport?

    The requirements for marriage in the Davenport Diocese can be found on page 4 of our wedding policy

  • When can weddings be scheduled?

    It is the responsibility of the couple to secure the wedding date with the church before making commitments with reception halls, caterers, etc.


    Only one wedding may be celebrated per weekend at St. John Vianney. The standard time for a wedding is Saturday at 2pm (or earlier).


    The standard time for a rehearsal is Friday (the day before the wedding) at 5:30pm.


    Depending on the parish schedule, a wedding could possibly be scheduled on a Friday evening (with the rehearsal on Thursday, the day before).


    A wedding could possibly be scheduled on a Saturday during Advent or Lent.


    Weddings cannot be scheduled between the 4th Sunday of Advent and New Years, or on holidays, i.e., New Year’s Eve or the 4th of July.

  • Are we allowed to choose our own music?

    Following the general guidelines published by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Sing to the Lord: Music in Divine Worship, music must be sacred or classical.


    Popular songs are not considered appropriate either before or during the liturgy. These are more appropriate for use at your reception.


    Please inquire first before making specific plans.

  • Can St. John Vianney recommend wedding musicians?

    Yes. We have many accomplished musicians, including pianists, organists and vocalists, to choose from.

  • Are we allowed to decorate the church?

    The worship space is routinely decorated to reflect the liturgical seasons. This should be considered when making arrangements for flowers or other decorations.


    Any flowers placed on the bema (the raised area of the altar) should be fresh flowers.


    The dropping of flowers/petals/etc. by the flower girl is not allowed. 


    No throwing of rice or bird seed is allowed.


    Pew bows can be attached to the pews using our plastic clips.


    Placement of decorations should not impede the movement of the wedding party.

  • Is there a place to dress?

    Yes. The bride and her bridesmaids may use the spacious Vianney Room to dress. It includes a full length mirror, a private bathroom, hooks on which to hang dresses with long trains, a refrigerator and phone.


    The groom and groomsmen can use the usher's room (a more simple, small room). Most groomsmen come already dressed.

  • What fees are we responsible for?

    You are responsible for the following fees: facility fee, parish wedding coordinator, cantor (leader of song and prayer), and pianist/organist. A gift for the celebrant (priest or deacon) is at the couple's discretion. See the Wedding Policy (page 6) for the specific fees.

Getting Married

Where to start?

Contact our Parish Office

office@sjvbett.org

536.332.7910

Important Resources
SJV Wedding Policy
Share by: