Resources For Your Catholic Wedding Ceremony
In my opinion, the Catholic wedding ceremony gets a bad rap. Yes, the ceremony can be very long when a full Mass is included. And yes, sometimes parts are impossible to understand when done in Latin. But Catholic weddings are deeply spiritual events, full of rich symbolism and tradition. Every time I coordinate a Catholic wedding, I am deeply moved by the rituals, the pageantry, and the Scripture. Over time, I have created a list of important factors for couples planning a Catholic wedding ceremony: Tip #1: Plan Early! First of all, start planning early! Catholic churches fill up very, very fast-- especially if you do not live in an area with a large Catholic population (and there are few Catholic churches). Most priests will not marry couples outside of the church. If the wedding will not be held in the bride's home parish, the couple may need special permission to marry in a different church. Tip #2: Choose Your Date Wisely. When you are choosing your date and time preferences, remember that there are certain times of the year and the day when Catholic weddings are off-limits. Consult your priest. Tip #3: Start Conversion Process Early. If either the bride or groom are not Catholic, ask your priest about conversion and intermarriage requirements. This can be a long process, so start early. Tip #4: Ask About Rules. Some parishes are more strict than others. Ask the priest about rules concerning dress (whether the bride's shoulders should be covered), aisle runners and other decorations, such as tossing items. Tip #5: Start Annulment Process. If this is not the first marriage for either of you, you will need an annulment to marry in the Catholic church if your first spouse is still living. Annulments are rarely granted, and the process is long and complicated. Start as soon as possible. Tip #6: Inquire About Proof. Ask what proof is required to marry in your particular church, as it varies (i.e., baptismal certificate, communion, and confirmation). Tip #7: Start Pre-Cana. Enroll in Pre-Cana classes, the marital preparation program required by the Catholic Church. Tip #8: Discuss Details. Meet with your priest to discuss the order of the ceremony, readings and blessings. Tip #9: Ask About Bridal Party. Choose the members of your bridal party. Again, some parishes are more strict than others, and some frown upon a large bridal party. Also, some require that both the best man and the maid of honor be Catholic. Tip #10: Finalize Music. Consult the parish music director to discuss music during your ceremony. Tip #11: Choose Readers. Decide who will be reading biblical passages during the ceremony. Tip #12: Ask About Banns. Ask your parish about posting the notice of your intention to wed (called "Banns"). Traditionally, Banns were posted outside the church door to allow people the option of objecting to the wedding with valid reason. In modern times, Banns are announced during Sunday service or printed in the church bulletin.
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