Formal attire - We suggest dressing timeless and classy. Dark and classic for men, vibrant and colorful for women.
Yes! There will be free roam of the entire museum for all guests, after the ceremony, from 4-5:00pm, right before cocktail hour starts on the third floor. No need to pay. The museum closes to the public at 5:00, so after that, we are asked to stay in the designated reception areas.
As a non-Catholic, you are invited (and encouraged!) to participate in the sitting, standing, kneeling, singing, and praying portions of the Mass—as much as you are comfortable. There are a few ways you can follow along with the Mass. First, you can observe the people around you and follow their lead. (Truly, no one will notice if you are a second behind the crowd.) Second, you can look for “The Order of the Mass” in one of the song books in your pew to follow a written outline.
In general, the priest is the leader of the Mass. The congregation follows his words and actions for cues on what to say, when to say it, and how to move. However, other people support the Mass by reading and serving in different ways. You can expect that Mass will start with sitting or standing and listening to readings from the Bible. In the middle, the bride and groom will share their vows and rings with each other. Then the Mass continues with communion, or the Eucharist; this part involves more standing and kneeling and responding in prayer. When it comes time for communion, there are special considerations for non-Catholics. Continue reading the next question for more.
Catholics believe that the simple bread and wine presented on the altar during a Mass become the living, real presence of Jesus--his body, blood, soul, and divinity. To receive communion is to receive the body of Christ. Only baptized Catholics who have received their first communion, are practicing the faith, and are not aware of having committed mortal (serious) sins since their last confession may receive the Eucharist. If you are not going to receive, please remain in your seat and pray for and with the couple.
Prayer can be defined as a longing of the heart. While you are present at a Catholic Mass to support a couple you know and love, give your heart space to long, to desire, for their eternal happiness, faithful love and total commitment to each other. This couple has invited you to be a part of their special day to not only celebrate the beginning of their married lives, but to also celebrate the history of their lives that led them to this day. Being present at a wedding ceremony is about a reciprocity of love—offering love for the new couple and receiving their love for your role in their life. Differences in faith or spirituality do not take away from this meaningful sharing of the heart.