FAQs
Question
What will happen at the ""Catholic"" wedding?
Answer
As Catholic Christians we know that a wedding is more than just a "sheet of paper" or legal arrangement. In the sacrament of Holy Matrimony a man and woman become "one flesh" through their commitment to one another in front of God, his priest, and the whole congregation. The wedding ceremony is set within the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, therefore two sacraments will be celebrated - the Eucharistic Sacrament of the Altar and Holy Matrimony. The ceremony in general will include an entrance procession of the brides-maidens and matrons, and the bride. There will be music played and hymns sung, scriptures proclaimed to the congregation (the liturgy of the word), and then the wedding ceremony. The marriage itself will last about 5 minutes, where the bride and groom exchange vows. Then the mass will continue to the liturgy of the Eucharist - which is a Greek-derived word meaning "thanksgiving". Here bread and wine is offered to God, as priests Melchizedek and Jesus did. In accordance with the words of God the bread and wine are given to us now as Jesus's body and blood. The mass will end with a brief time of reflection after reception of Jesus in the Eucharist with music, and then the closing and sending forth of the congregation from the mass, and a closing hymn.
Question
Can I receive the bread that everyone else is lining up for?
Answer
Only practicing Catholic Christians in a state of grace (not having culpability of any mortals sins prior to mass) may receive Jesus in communion. It is of the gravest importance for all present at the wedding to understand that they may not receive communion if they are not Catholic and in the proper disposition to receive. You are encouraged to receive a blessing from the priest if you desire by approaching the altar with your arms crossed and not consuming the species of the Eucharist (bread or wine). You are also free to remain in the pews if you desire. Please reach out to me if you are interested in becoming Catholic! We would love to have you! Any Christians belonging to churches in communion with the Roman Pontiff are encouraged to follow the protocols of their bishops and that of the Roman Catholic Church. Please reach out to St. Monica-St. George Parish if this describes you.
Question
What should I do during the gap?
Answer
Those not part of the bridal party or reception planning will have a gap between the wedding and reception. We encourage you to take a look at our travel page for recommendations to fill the time!
Question
Can I change my rsvp past April 18th?
Answer
RSVP’s are closed, please text the bridal or groom with RSVP updates.