FI and I were both raised Catholic. I was baptized and went through communion, but never confirmation; FI did all three. Neither of us attend church regularly and as terrible as this may be, I can't even tell you the last time I went. I've been wanting to start attending church again for quite some time, but haven't managed yet to get going (I know, my own fault). I do plan to start attending very soon because I've seen information online about RCIA and how to get confirmed as an adult. So my first question here is:How long is the process for confirmation as an adult? I'd really like to be confirmed prior to my wedding (though I've also read that it isn't absolutely necessary, I still want to go through confirmation anyway), which brings me to part two.
Our wedding is set for August 9th. I know you should plan with your church first about a date, but FI and I went through a lot to even get a date for our wedding because of his family and the schedules and needs of those close to us and we just figured we would have an outdoor wedding. I am realizing more and more that I really want to rejoin the church and to have a Catholic wedding and receive the sacrament and the only way to do that is to have a wedding in the Church (I've also heard of convalidation but that it is hard to get). I really want to raise my future children Catholic and become a normal practicing member of the Church again. I've tried contacting my old church (near my hometown where I will be married, the one where I had communion as a child), but they said they really need 10-12 months. FI has since contacted a second Catholic Church and we're waiting to hear back. So my second question:
Do you think it's still going to be possible to have a Catholic wedding with only 6 months to go? I mean, I've seen some people say 6-12 months, and others say over a year. The church that FI is attempting to contact says on their site that you should contact them a year out, but they're also not exactly in a busy area (very small town).
I'm pretty sure from what I've read that we would be able to do pre-cana here in GA even though our wedding is in MD. Is this true? If anyone can help me out with my mess of confusion, it would be greatly appreciated. Any advice or information you have to offer for me would be great. I'm sorry I'm sucky at following my religion, but I really do intend to get better!
Re: I'm a confused mess.
I would start contacting some churches in person, explain that you started out planning one wedding, but that now you're realizing the importance of including the church in your marriage. Perhaps the priest or wedding coordinator at your current church can come up with a solution.
Also, you can often complete your marriage preparation in another state, it's just another issue to take up with the priest marrying you.
I'm not sure about confirmation requirements when you've received the other sacraments, so hopefully someone else can speak to that.
If I were you, I'd start "church shopping" to find a church you like. If you're in a rush, I'd even try to attend multiple masses in one weekend (all at different churches). Once you do, talk to the priest about going through RCIA and about getting married. Hopefully you can get something set for August. If not, just remember that having a Catholic/valid ceremony/marriage is more important than ANY other of the features. even if this means postponing your wedding and not having everything you've already planned for.
Good luck!
Teachery Blog
confirmation isn't required, but strongly encouraged to get if possible prior to marriage.
I am pretty certain that if you contact a priest and a church and explain your situation they will work with you knowing that youd like to get married in the church. the timeframe is usually so that you have adequate time to take precana, etc. also some parishes are very busy, others not so much in terms of sacraments (baptisms and weddings).
FWIW, my engagement was only 7 months. it is possible especially if you are willing to be flexible.