I know that the Roman Catholic faith does not recognize marriages held outside of the church. We are getting married outdoors in a garden, so I have a few questions:
1. It's my understanding that an active priest in good standing cannot preside over a ceremony outside of a church, but a deacon or retired priest can if they are willing. Is this accurate? If so, is it fairly common for retired priest to do this? Would any pre-cana type work need to be done?
2. As a backup plan, we have a church in our city that practices the Catholic faith, but does not adhere to the Roman Catholic ways. I've never been before, but a member of their clergy is willing to marry us in an outdoor setting. Is anyone familiar with these kinds of parishes and do you know what the ceremony would entail? Would it be awkward to include readings for a small ceremony?
3. What would we need to do after we are married to eventually have our marriage recognized by the Catholic Church?
Thanks all!