Father Charles Schmitt - Married Catholic Priest

A native of Baltimore and the oldest of 5 boys, after graduating from Archbishop Curley High School, I entered the Conventual Franciscan Order and was ordained a priest in 1981. My education includes a BA in Scholastic Philosophy and a Masters of Divinity. I also have architectural training from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and was involved with Albany Diocesan Architectural Commission and designed, managed and executed various building projects throughout my years as a Franciscan. While in Theology, I was also certified in Clinical Pastoral Education. Upon ordination, I returned to my high school as a math teacher and later became the chairman of the department. I was then assigned to the Franciscan seminary in Massachusetts as the Treasurer and Business Manager; I also taught math and Latin in the college. While in Massachusetts , I came to the decision to leave the community after 18 years of religious life. The reasons were complex; but in a nutshell, I was unhappy living in an all male community, with all the associated inter-personal dynamics and political posturing. I have always been very idealistic and found that there were many things that were contrary to my beliefs. I came back to the Baltimore area and entered the Custom Home building field in Bethany Beach, DE. After several years, and after I met my wife, I started my own remodeling business in Columbia, The Home Healer, still going strong after 25 years -both the business and the marriage! Although my background and approach toward wedding ceremonies is that of a Catholic priest, I fully believe that the day is yours. I have witnessed many inter-faith, multicultural, same-sex weddings along with more traditional ceremonies, and always work with you to create a ceremony specific to your needs and dreams. I like to meet with couples several times prior to the ceremony to get to know one another, discuss any issues that may exist and craft the ceremony together. My wife Mallory also gets involved with writing the ceremony and helps with the rehearsal and ceremony as needed. As a member of CITI Ministries, a group of married Catholic priests, I have authority to officiate weddings and have performed ceremonies in Maryland, Delaware, the District of Columbia and Pennsylvania. Travel to destination or distant locations is also an option.