FAQ

Question

How should I prepare for the weather?

Answer

It will get a bit brisk (by California standards) so bring a coat!

Question

Could I go straight to the reception after the ceremony?

Answer

The bride and groom will remain briefly at the church for a family photo before heading to the reception. Guests are welcome to go directly to the venue, and dinner will be served immediately upon the arrival of the bride/groom.

Question

What should I expect from the ceremony?

Answer

The wedding service will take place at the very beginning of Mass, right after the procession. There will be some prayers and blessings in English and Latin, then our vows will be said in English. The wedding service will be directly followed by a Tridentine Latin Mass. In whole, it will last about an hour and a half.

Question

What is the dress code?

Answer

As the wedding is a formal occasion, we ask guests to dress in their "Sunday best" attire. Because of the sacred setting, we ask that a minimum level of respectful dress is maintained (collared shirt and slacks for men; knee length dresses with sleeves for women). The reception will be on grass, so women should be mindful of sharp heels and long dresses.

Question

What if I've never been to a Latin Mass before?

Answer

Booklets will be available to help you follow along, and the readings will be preached in English before the homily. Many newcomers can easily get lost due to the language barrier and emphasis on silence (most notably, the prayers of consecration are said silently by the priest). If you do get lost, don't worry. The choir will help ground you as it sings the ordinary of the Mass, and the bells will clue you in to when the consecration occurs.

Question

Can I receive communion?

Answer

If you are a practicing Catholic in a state of grace, you are invited to receive communion with the couple. The Eucharist is received on the tongue while kneeling at the communion rail (if you are able). You do not need to respond with "Amen" when the priest gives it to you.

Question

Anything else?

Answer

Please maintain silence at all times in the church, even before the ceremony begins. If an emergency or other situation arises and you need to speak, please do so in a whisper or exit the church if possible. For further or more specific questions, please inquire at the church's FAQ: https://firstmartyr.com/faq/