The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of 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 the dignity of a sacrament. Diocesan regulation requires that pre-nuptial instructions are taken before wedding date is set. Couples considering the Sacrament of Marriage need to contact the Priest/Parish Office at least six months before the planned wedding date.