Part V. Reception of the Sacraments

I. With divine law considered, of itself there is no obligation to confess before matrimony. It suffices to have recovered the state of grace, if perhaps lost, by an act of perfect contrition (n. 43). Likewise, as is clear, of itself there is no obligation of receiving the Holy Eucharist. Accidentally, with regard to each sacrament, there can be an obligation, especially by reason of avoiding scandal.¹

II. With common ecclesiastical law considered, likewise the obligation is lacking. This is deduced from canon 1033, which decrees only: "Let the pastor vehemently exhort the betrothed that before the celebration of matrimony they diligently confess their sins and receive the Most Holy Eucharist." Thus also the Roman Ritual.²

Nevertheless, canon 1066 should be noted: If a public sinner or one notoriously bound by censure has first refused to approach sacramental confession or to be reconciled with the Church, the pastor is not to assist at his or her matrimony unless a grave cause is urgent, concerning which, if it can be done, he is to consult the Ordinary.

III. It is disputed whether or not particular law can impose reception of the sacraments.³ But certainly it cannot convert neglect of reception into an impediment of matrimony itself; for this power belongs only to the supreme ecclesiastical power (canon 1038, § 2).

IV. With regard to Confirmation, canon 1021, § 2 establishes: Catholics who have not yet received the sacrament of Confirmation are to receive it before they are admitted to matrimony, if they can do this without grave inconvenience.

¹ Cf. Sacred Congregation of Propaganda Fide, April 17, 1820; Sacred Congregation of the Council, August 28, 1852.

² Title VII, chapter 1, n. 14.

³ Roman Ritual, title VII, chapter 1, n. 14.