Please note: We will also have a little leaflet at the church to clarify the structure of the ceremony.

A Guide to Our Wedding Mass

Welcoming All: Traditional Catholics, Non-Practicing Catholics & Non-Catholic Guests

For those interested in a deeper understanding of Catholic liturgy, please visit the following website

What’s Happening?

We’re celebrating our marriage with a Catholic Nuptial Mass in Latin (the modern Novus Ordo liturgy). This Mass follows the same structure as most Catholic weddings but uses Latin for some prayers and hymns. Here’s what everyone should know:

For Traditional Catholics

Liturgical Details:

The Mass follows the Novus Ordo (post-Vatican II) but is celebrated in Latin with Gregorian chant.

Ad orientem: The priest will face the altar (not the congregation) during the Eucharistic Prayer, emphasizing our shared focus on God.

Communion: Offered only to Catholics in a state of grace (as per Church teaching).

What’s Familiar:

The order of Mass (Introductory Rites, Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of the Eucharist).Traditional hymns (e.g., Panis Angelicus) and reverence (kneeling, incense).

For Non-Practicing/Non-Churchgoing Catholics

Quick Refresher:

Structure: The Mass has two main parts: the Liturgy of the Word (readings, homily) and the Liturgy of the Eucharist (Communion).

Latin Responses: While some prayers are in Latin (e.g., Sanctus, Agnus Dei), the vows, readings, and homily will be in English.

Communion: Open to all practicing Catholics who have received First Communion and are not conscious of mortal sin. If unsure, you’re welcome to pray or request a blessing.

No Pressure:

Follow along with the provided bilingual program or simply observe.

For Non-Catholic Guests

What to Expect:

A Sacred Ritual: The Mass is a deeply symbolic ceremony where Catholics believe bread and wine become Christ’s Body and Blood.

Participation: You’re welcome to stand, sit, and kneel with the congregation or remain seated throughout.

Communion: Reserved for practicing Catholics. Feel free to stay seated or approach with arms crossed for a blessing.

Symbols You’ll See:

Incense: Represents prayers rising to God.

Kneeling: A posture of reverence during the Eucharistic Prayer.

Step-by-Step Mass Guide

1. Procession & Welcome

What Happens: The bridal party enters to a hymn. The priest greets everyone in Latin (“In nomine Patris…”).

What You Do: Stand if able. Smile and enjoy the music!

2. Bible Readings & Homily

Readings: In English.

Homily: A short, relatable reflection on marriage.

3. Exchange of Vows & Rings

In English: We’ll say our vows clearly so everyone can share the moment!

Rings: Blessed with a prayer in Latin (“Benedic, Domine…”), then exchanged.

4. Liturgy of the Eucharist

Consecration: The priest prays in Latin (“Hoc est enim Corpus Meum”). Bells ring, and you’ll see kneeling.

Communion:

Catholics: Line up, receive the Host on the tongue or hand, and respond “Amen.”

Non-Catholics: Stay seated or approach with arms crossed for a blessing.

5. Closing & Recessional

Final Blessing: “Benedicat vos omnipotens Deus…” (“May Almighty God bless you…”).

Recessional: We exit joyfully to a hymn.

Practical Tips for Everyone

Dress Code

Respectful attire: Suits, dresses, or cultural garments. Avoid overly casual wear (jeans, shorts).

Participation

Postures: Follow the crowd (stand/sit/kneel). Kneeling is optional for non-Catholics.

Responses: Silent reverence is fine! Use the bilingual program if you want to join Latin prayers.

Photography

During Mass: Please refrain from taking pictures. It is a beautiful moment, but also a reverend moment. Do no worry our photographer will be instructed to take pictures in a manner that suits the ritual.

FAQs for All Guests

Q: Why Latin?
A: It’s the Church’s historic language, unifying Catholics globally. Think of it as a “heritage” touch for our wedding!

Q: Is this the Traditional Latin Mass (TLM)?
A: No. This is the modern Mass (Novus Ordo) with Latin prayers. The TLM is a different, older form.

Q: How long will it last?
A: About 75-90 minutes. Then, afterwards we party at the reception place.

Q: I’m nervous I’ll “do something wrong.”
A: Relax! No one is judging. Your presence is our gift.

A Heartfelt Note from Us

To our traditional Catholic loved ones: Thank you for sharing in the beauty of this liturgy.
To our non-practicing Catholic friends: Whether it’s been days or decades since your last Mass, welcome back—no pressure, just joy.
To our non-Catholic guests: Thank you for embracing this glimpse into our faith. We’re honored to have you here.

This Mass is our prayer—for our marriage, for your presence, and for a world filled with love.

“Love is patient, love is kind. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
—1 Corinthians 13:4,7