Joe and I met with the church's wedding coordinator. We were anticipating a 30-minute, quick, painless meeting. After having spoken to Rosa once on the phone, I got the impression she was always in a hurry so I wasn't worried. I was wrong.
Rosa reminded me of the crazy/funny Aunt. You know, the one who always tells old stories that still makes everyone laugh, asks the questions that your mother wouldn't dare ask, and makes people feel uncomfortable at parties. You feel safe with her because you know nobody will bully you knowing you're related to her. And you love her because she makes you feel normal.
She told us everyone walks out of there feeling like they're her favorite couple. She said she never remembers them so we should send her an e-mail with our picture so she'll know what we're talking about when we speak to her. She also gave us a skeptical look and said, "I've met sweet couples like you before. Nice and sweet at first but by the time the week of your wedding comes..." She didn't finish her sentence. She just gave us a gesticulation of what nasty brides look like.
Our meeting covered everything from booking the church, papers that were required of us, to what we can or can't do with the Church the day of our wedding. Joe took notes. Because Joe likes his lists. Rosa was so impressed by this that she asked if she could marry him. I said no, of course.
The list:
- E-mail her a picture of the two of us
- Request a newly issued baptismal and confirmation certificate
- Letter of freedom from our parish.
- Follow up with her if she doesn't send us our "Together for Life" package
- Go to pre-cana
- Buy a marriage license
- Meet with the priest for a "matrimonial investigation"
- Contact the music director
- Schedule the rehearsal
On my calendar: Friday, October 14th - 3:00 p.m. - St. Patrick's Old Cathedral - getting married
