FAQs

Question

What is the dress code?

Answer

formal/semi-formal attire requested. Saint John Chrysostom is a sacred space, and we kindly ask guests to dress with reverence and discretion.

Question

Information about the Divine Liturgy and Crowning Ceremony

Answer

In the Byzantine tradition, the priest places rings on the couple’s fingers at the betrothal ceremony. Eastern Catholic Churches take betrothal very seriously; an annulment may be required to dissolve it. Because of this, we will celebrate our betrothal on the same day as our wedding. The rings symbolize the couple's commitment to the vocation. No vows are said. Instead, there is the crowning ceremony, where the bride and groom are crowned to remind them that they are now the leaders of a tiny church: their family. Just like the Church, the couple is led by the Holy Spirit to do the will of the Father and to draw closer to the Son. Marriage crowns are crowns of martyrdom, signs of glory and triumph when man and woman lay down their lives as an act of love for the other. By accepting the crowns of martyrdom, the couple has already surrendered their lives to each other and to God. They are led to the front of the church for the Dance of Isaiah, a victory dance for their sacrifice. After the crowning and the readings, the priest leads the couple three times around the Gospel book, which rests on a table near the front of the church. The priest holds a small cross in front of them.. Christ is their beacon as they take their first few steps as a married couple. The Gospel is at the center of this dance. They walk in three circles: a circle has no end. Married love is an icon of Christ’s love for us as well as a foreshadowing of the redeemed love we will share in Heaven: unending, selfless, and always encouraging each other to grow closer to the Trinity. During this dance, the couple is surrounded by the singing of their family and friends, as well as the heavenly community present whenever the sacraments are celebrated. Painted icons around the church serve as reminders that the angels and saints are present. In this moment, the cloud of witnesses is fully present, able to be seen and heard.

Question

Should I come to the wedding ceremony?

Answer

We invite ALL our family and friends to come to Divine Liturgy and the Crowning ceremony to witness us being wed! Please know that you do NOT have to be a Catholic or even a Christian to attend the Mass, but since this is so important to us, we hope that you will make every effort to attend it. We hope you will enjoy the experience of the Byzantine Liturgy and the Eastern Rite if it is your first time, and we promise that you won't be disappointed with the beautiful icons, incense, and eastern melodies.

Question

where are you registered?

Answer

Mostly Zola, Amazon, and Target. You can see our registry under the "registry" tab!

Question

can I bring a plus one?

Answer

we have a strict guest list to stay on budget and will only be able to accommodate those listed on your invitation.

Question

Can I take photos at the Divine Liturgy and crowning ceremony?

Answer

Yes but please no flash!