Canonum De Lex Ecclesium
Canons of Ecclesiastical Law

one heaven iconV.   Sacraments

5.3 Cardinal Sacraments

Article 154 - Matrimony

Canon 4431 (link)

Matrimony is the third of the fourteen (14) Cardinal Sacraments also known as the Ways of Heaven. The Sacrament of Offering is a way of sacred action unlocked through the presence of the seven (7) Keys of Heaven within the Sacrament itself. The Sacrament of Matrimony may also be granted and conferred in accordance with these Canons and associated approved liturgy.

Canon 4432 (link)

Matrimony is granted and administered when a man and a woman upon reaching majority choose and consent of their own free will to sanctify their union through a registered divine matrimonial covenant in accordance with these canons and associated approved liturgy. The meaning of Matrimony is derived from the Latin word matrimonium meaning “matrimony”.

Canon 4433 (link)

The sacrament of Matrimony comprises the completion of three separate and deliberate Acts in order: Act One being the Act of Betrothal, Act Two being the Act of Wedding and Act Three being the Act of Consummation:

(i) The Act of Betrothal as Act One is the formal promise and bond of proposed matrimony; and

(ii) The Act of Wedding as Act Two is the formal ritual celebrating Matrimonial Vows; and

(iii) The Act of Consummation as Act Three is the first act of intimate relations.