FAQs

Question

Where should I park?

Answer

There is free parking in the parking garage behind the church. Plenty of room for everyone. If there's an attendant just let them know you're here for our wedding and they'll let you in. Address is 1701 Capitol St, Houston, TX 77003. There is parking on the street but they charge and it is crowded. If you choose to park on the street, please do not park in a spot if a meter is covered with a red cover. They will boot your car or tow it. Give yourself plenty of time because they lock the doors at 2:30pm sharp. Please see their website for more details: https://annunciationcc.org/visit

Question

Can I bring a plus one?

Answer

Due to our large families and budget, we are limited on accommodations, your invitation will specify exactly who is invited or if a plus one is allowed. Thank you for understanding

Question

What is a Nuptial Mass?

Answer

A Nuptial Mass is a Catholic Mass which includes the celebration of the sacrament of marriage. The first half, called the Liturgy of the Word, includes introductory prayers, readings from Scripture, and a homily, or reflection, from the priest. After the homily, the couple will exchange vows and wedding rings as part of the Rite of Marriage. The second half, called the Liturgy of the Eucharist, includes the celebration and sharing of the Body of Christ. A regular Catholic Mass typically lasts about one hour, so with the exchange of vows and rings, you can expect the regular hour-long Mass plus the wedding ceremony.

Question

What are the rules on church grounds?

Answer

As this is a reverent house of God please refrain from chewing gum, and bringing in food and drinks. Please be mindful of your voices inside and please remember to be modest in your dress attire. Modest dress attire includes but not limited to covered shoulders, no short dresses, open backs or revealing cleavage.

Question

What do I do during the mass?

Answer

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 follow along with the readings, prayers, and responses included in your program. 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. After all, you have been invited to this wedding to be part of the community of witnesses to pray for and celebrate the bride and groom. Regardless of your spirituality or religious beliefs, there is a joy to be shared as the two become one, through love, in marriage.

Question

How do I know if I can receive Communion?

Answer

Catholics believe that the simple bread and wine presented on the altar during Mass become the living, real presence of Jesus - his body, blood, soul, and divinity. To receive communion is to receive the body of Christ. Catholics must be actively practicing their faith and be in a state of grace to receive the Eucharist. If you practice a different faith, do not share this belief, or have not been spiritually prepared through catechesis to receive the Eucharist, you are invited to remain present in the Mass without receiving communion. As the congregation processes to the front of the church during communion, you can choose to receive a blessing - by walking forward with your arms crossed on your chest so each hand rests on the opposite shoulder - or to remain at your seat. Either way, Gabrielle and Junior invite you to join them in prayer during this time.

Question

How can I support the couple during the ceremony if I'm from a different faith or am not religious?

Answer

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. Gabrielle and Junior invited you to be 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. Differences in faith or spirituality do not take away from this meaningful celebration.

Question

Will there be an open bar at the reception?

Answer

There will be a limited open bar provided at the reception. When supplies run out there will be more alcohol available to purchase as a cash bar. Please bring cash if you know you will be wanting more. They do not accept any form of payment other than cash. Please remember to be mindful of your intake if you are driving at the end of the night, we want everyone to stay safe first and foremost!

Question

Do catholic's worship Mary and the Saints?

Answer

The short answer is no. We ask for their intercession just as if we were asking one of our friends to pray for us. The Catechism teaches us that only God is to be adored and worshiped, but that doesn’t mean that Mary and the saints can’t be venerated (honored) because of their closeness to God (CC 971).

Question

What should I wear?

Answer

Semi-formal attire. The wedding party will be wearing a brown taupe shade, so please avoid this color. Anything else is okay. Please do keep in mind, we believe Christ is physically present at mass and want to present ourselves as best as possible with modesty and respect before Him. This usually means dresses that are below the knee when sitting, no shorts, and no tank tops. Thank you!