Expert: Fr. Michael - 1/28/2012

Question
Hello,
I have a question regarding a Roman Catholic wedding. I am a Catholic however my fiance is not (he is Hindu). Is it imperative for him to be baptized, receive first communion and have confirmation in order for us to be married in Roman Catholic Church? I hear different opinions and I am not sure.
Thank you

Answer
In the normal case (unless a dispensation for good cause could be obtained, and the non-Catholic party make the promises not to interfere with the Catholic's practice of faith and to raise any children in the Catholic Faith), Baptism and admission to Holy Communion would be required.  Confirmation is recommended, but not required.  Baptism would require a period of instruction in the Faith and a sincere desire on the part of the non-Catholic to abjure his paganism and to believe in the true Faith.