Upset at my church and the Brooklyn/Queens Diocese (long ,sorry)

So I've been trying to get in contact with my church's priest since October 2005 adn though I have spoken to him very briefly twice I do not feel satisfied. Since I am Catholic and my FH is protestant I want to make sure to have everything we need when the time comes. I also asked to meet with him and he says it's not necessary. It is very rare (like I said I spoke with him only twice and called at least 25 times) that I do infact get to speak with him. So he told me the last time I called to call back in May for the pre-cana info. I waited because I knew they wouldn't have it. I called today and was told it is still too early, yet there are ladies on here who have attended and are getting married next year also. I contact the Diocese and they tell me he must be very busy. FOR 10 MONTHS!!! Come on. I also ask if there would be a problem possibly getting married in another parish, possibly one that wouldn't be so busy (I didn;t say the last part) she says well it's up to the church and they try to stay out of it. I should be worried if I was getting married this Sept. I tell her I can't wait until next August for this info. I am now crying to her. I seriously don't even want to get married in a church now.

Re: Upset at my church and the Brooklyn/Queens Diocese (long ,sorry)

That seems very strange that it's 'not necessary' for the priest to meet with you. That was the FIRST thing the priest at my church wanted to do! Before we even set a date! We're doing pre-cana in November and they had the dates available (this is Long Island though). That would frustrate me. Do you have any other options? It getting married at your church very important to you, or would it be ok to find another one? I understand people are busy, but I would be irritated if I kept getting blown off like that. It's your wedding, it's important!

Re: Upset at my church and the Brooklyn/Queens Diocese (long ,sorry)

I actually called another church in the next town over and the receptionist in the rectory was very nice. I asked if their priests would marry a couple not from the parrish and she said they have before and that I could speak to Father so and so after September 1st as he was on vacation or call back later this afternoon asnd speak with Father Joe. Father Joe had stepped out. This is all I want. I don't need to speak with someone the second I call but a time frame and someone pleasant to speak with is always a plus. Thanks for listening ladies!

Re: Upset at my church and the Brooklyn/Queens Diocese (long ,sorry)

YOu can totally get married in another church but that church will need copies of all sacrament certificates and you will both need release letters from your parish stating that are okay with you getting married at another church.

Re: Upset at my church and the Brooklyn/Queens Diocese (long ,sorry)

This sounds like a very familiar story. I had so many problems with my church, but it all started a couple months befoer & my invites were out already. The new priest didn't speak english very well, so we had to get a deacon. the receptionist was always nasty on the phone and even gave me the wrong address. I found out the night before my wedding when people were calling my mom trying to mapquest directions and nothing was coming up....it was a nightmare. If you can change to a different church RUN and do it, do not wait for them to call you. they are making you upset way to early.

Re: Upset at my church and the Brooklyn/Queens Diocese (long ,sorry)

I'm so sorry Vita I can't help.. but to say,.. then just get married at Villa's like we are!!

Re: Upset at my church and the Brooklyn/Queens Diocese (long ,sorry)

This doesn't make sense to me... how coudl he not meet with you? there is paperwork that he has to complete on your behalf as well as meet with you both and ask you questions that are required by the Church. Since you are marrying a Protestant, you need a dispensation... not a big deal, but I would worry because it is more paperwork that you need to get from him.

I would call the church again... perhaps speak to the secretary... those ladies run the place and know a lot more than you think. Tell her or the priest if you can get him that you know there is necessary paperwork he needs to fill out, you need the dispensation information, etc. etc. i think the more you knwo about the process and can get that across may help this guy to take you seriously.

Sorry to hear h'es giving you the run around!

Re: Upset at my church and the Brooklyn/Queens Diocese (long ,sorry)

That does seem very strange. I had a hard time getting in touch with my priest, but that was b/c he was changing parishes a few weeks later.
I don't about going to another church, but it's worth a try.