Marriage is not just a private matter between two people. It has a profound significance for both the society and the Church because it is the foundation of the family. Strong marriages provide financial and emotional stability for the family. Strong marriages decrease poverty. A decrease in poverty lowers the crime rate. So, marriage matters to society.
The Church takes marriage very seriously because it allows a man and a woman to reveal to all around them something of the mystery of God. This is why marriage is a sacrament. As a sacrament, marriage gives us grace to live the vows made at the altar. As a sacrament, marriage has its source in the Eucharist. Just as a man and women give themselves totally and unconditionally to each other, so does Jesus give Himself totally and unconditionally to us and we to Him in Holy Communion. So, marriage matters to the Church
Because it is so significant, the Church wants to make sure that a couple is properly prepared for marriage, and that they enter into it freely, without reservation, and with full understanding of what is involved. The Church also has an obligation to make sure that the marriage is celebrated in the right way, according to the right forms. All of this stems from the Church’s a special obligation to take care of the spiritual health of all of God’s people.
As a result, the marriage preparation process is governed by rules and regulations that are part of the Church’s Code of Canon Law (the universal law of the Catholic Church), liturgical rules, and particular pastoral requirements of our diocese and individual parishes and priests.
In addition, a couple who goes through this process with an open heart and open mind will find that they will address issues of critical importance to their marriage. In having discussions between themselves and with a priest or deacon about these issues, they can avoid problems in the future and have a firmer sense of confidence in their love and in the love of God.
In short, the Church is concerned about your well-being, and wants you to have a great marriage