Sacred Grace

Imagine a wedding day filled with joy and love, yet missing one vital presence. For many couples married only civilly, that presence is Christ. Sacred Grace, an initiative from the Diocese of Calgary, offers civilly-married couples a sacred path to bring their union into the fullness of God’s grace by celebrating the Sacrament of Matrimony.

On Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 1:30 PM, couples will gather at St. Mary’s Cathedral to celebrate this sacred milestone. Presided over by Bishop William T. McGrattan, the event promises to be a day of spiritual renewal and grace for couples and their families.

Marriage is more than a commitment between a man and a woman; it's a divine vocation that reflects God's covenant with His people. It allows couples to experience God's grace by receiving spiritual strength to grow in love, face challenges, and live out their vocation together. It also strengthens families by building a foundation centered on faith, hope, and love for the home and future generations. Moreover, it allows couples to witness God's love, letting their marriage be a light to others and showing the beauty of a life lived with Christ.​​

Deacon Greg Barcelon, who championed this initiative after participating in similar celebrations in the Archdiocese of Vancouver, has seen firsthand the beauty and transformation that come with sacramental marriage.

Stories of Grace

Sacred Grace is here for couples ready to take this step of faith and love. If you know someone married civilly who are seeking the Sacrament of Matrimony, please share this opportunity with them. It’s a chance to deepen their faith and enrich their marriage with God’s presence.

One couple, married for ten years, shared, “It was a beautiful experience. We’re so thankful we participated. Our youngest is receiving First Communion this spring, and we wanted to be married in the Church before that.”

Another couple reflected on their journey: “After battling lymphoma twice, we promised to invite God’s blessing into our marriage. We’re so grateful for His healing and this opportunity.” 

​The primary purpose of marriage is not to make husband and wife happy, but to make them holy. It is a vocation, a way of sanctity, a means of growing in virtue and helping each other on the path to heaven."  ​~Venerable Fulton Sheen

The Sacred Grace initiative is supported by a dedicated team of permanent deacons who are committed to preparing couples for this significant step. They are available to answer any questions and guide participants through the process.

Deacon Greg reflects, “Sacramental marriages are mirrors that reflect God’s love for His people and His Church. When couples receive this grace, it’s not just transformative—it’s inspiring.” 

“We are part of the greatest love story ever,” he explains. “God loved us first, emptied Himself, and gave everything for us. Inviting Him into your marriage transforms it—not just on your wedding day, but every day after.”

On September 13, 2025, couples will renew their commitment to each other and to God in a celebration of love and holiness. "Your marriage is a Gift - Make it a Sacrament."

Information sessions are offered at the following dates and locations:

1. Sunday, February 9 at 6 pm, St. Albert the Great Parish (10 Prestwick Dr SE, Calgary) - Register now
2. Thursday, March 6 at 6 pm, St. Michael's Parish (800 85 St. SW, Calgary) - Register now
3. Sunday, March 9 at 6 pm, St. Thomas More's Parish, Calgary (15 Templebow Rd NE, Calgary) - Register now
4. Sunday, March 16 at 6 pm, St. Patrick's Parish, Calgary (1414 Shawnessy Blvd SW, Calgary) - Register now
   (Two more locations for Lethbridge and Medicine Hat) will be available soon. ​​

It is the presence of the Lord, who reveals Himself and the gift of His grace, that will render your marriage full and profoundly true.”  ​Pope Francis

For more detailed information and answers to common questions about the Sacred Grace initiative—such as the nature of a sacramental marriage and the preparation process—please visit catholicyyc.ca/sacredgrace. ​​