Catholic Wedding

[StJudePray4Me]

Do non-Catholics even have to stand and kneel? Can’t they just sit quietly the whole time?

I wouldn’t worry about these things, anyway. I love a Mass because who wants the ceremony to be over in 5 minutes? I’ve been to secular ceremonies that made me think “that’s it?”

I don’t think your guests would think an hour is too long or boring. If they have any curiosity at all, they will listen and hopefully enjoy the music, etc. I would be very Interested if I were invited to a Jewish wedding, For example. The only time I can see someone being bored is of the ceremony is in a language they do not speak.

Oh, and also, I think you could tell the cantor and the priest that you have a bunch of non-Catholics attending, so they can help facilitate if people need direction. “Please stand” and the like. I’m not sure it’s anyone’s job too police the Communion line, though.

 

[Katie966]

Even if you didn’t have a Mass, the ceremony would still include readings and a homily. It’s maybe 15 minutes shorter, but mine still lasted about 40 minutes. You really should just ask your priest what he recommends in your situation. Either way it will be a “true” Catholic wedding.

Our ceremony was outside of Mass anyway, but there were a lot of non-religious people in attendance and many of them commented regarding how beautiful the ceremony was. I don’t think the length of the ceremony should be a consideration at all for you. If people are attending your wedding then presumably they love and care for you, and can sit quietly for an hour and be happy for you.