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Catholic Wedding Ceremony Script

 A Catholic wedding ceremony is rich with tradition and meaning, reflecting the sacredness of the sacrament of marriage. Here is an outline of the typical script for a Catholic wedding ceremony, which can vary slightly depending on the preferences of the couple and the officiant.



Introductory Rites

  1. Entrance Procession

    • The ceremony begins with the entrance procession, where the bridal party walks down the aisle. This can include the priest, groomsmen, bridesmaids, the groom, and the bride. Often, the bride is escorted by her father or another significant person.

  2. Greeting and Welcome

    • The priest welcomes everyone and offers an opening prayer, asking for God's blessing on the couple and the ceremony.

Liturgy of the Word

  1. Readings

    • Typically, there are three readings: one from the Old Testament, a Psalm (usually sung), and one from the New Testament. These readings focus on themes of love and marriage.
    • Example:
      • First Reading: Genesis 2:18-24
      • Psalm: Psalm 128
      • Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

  2. Gospel Acclamation

    • A short verse, usually sung, leading into the Gospel reading.

  3. Gospel Reading

    • The priest or deacon reads a passage from one of the Gospels. Example: Matthew 19:3-6

  4. Homily

    • The priest delivers a sermon reflecting on the readings and the sacrament of marriage.

The Rite of Marriage

  1. Questions Before Consent

    • The priest asks the couple to declare their intentions, confirming that they are entering the marriage freely and willingly, and that they intend to be faithful to each other and to accept children lovingly from God.

  2. Exchange of Vows

    • The couple declares their consent to marry and exchanges vows. Example vows:
      • "I, [Name], take you, [Name], to be my wife/husband. I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health. I will love you and honor you all the days of my life."

  3. Blessing and Exchange of Rings

    • The priest blesses the wedding rings, and the couple exchanges them as a symbol of their love and fidelity.

  4. Nuptial Blessing

    • The priest prays over the couple, asking God to bless their marriage.

Liturgy of the Eucharist (if within a Mass)

  1. Preparation of the Altar and Gifts

    • The altar is prepared for the celebration of the Eucharist. Gifts of bread and wine may be brought to the altar by family members or friends.

  2. Eucharistic Prayer

    • The priest leads the congregation in the Eucharistic Prayer, culminating in the consecration of the bread and wine.

  3. Lord's Prayer

    • The congregation recites the Lord's Prayer.

  4. Sign of Peace

    • The priest invites everyone to offer a sign of peace to each other.

  5. Holy Communion

    • The newlyweds, along with the congregation, receive Holy Communion.

Concluding Rites

  1. Final Blessing

    • The priest offers a final blessing for the couple and the congregation.

  2. Presentation of the Couple

    • The priest introduces the newly married couple to the congregation.

  3. Recessional

    • The ceremony concludes with a recessional, where the bridal party exits the church, typically accompanied by joyful music.

This structure may vary depending on cultural traditions, specific requests from the couple, or guidelines from the officiating priest or church. Some couples might choose a ceremony without a full Mass, which would omit the Liturgy of the Eucharist section.

If you need ideas or are looking for particular items to buy for a Catholic Wedding, here is a list of items that may interest you.

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