Kids under 7 banned from Wedding Church Ceremony

[zaramarie81]

I don’t mind having children around me in church - other people’s, that is. I can relax because I’m not responsible for them! But most of them are reasonably well behaved, and some amazingly so for their age. Maybe I was just too sensitive when it was my turn?

Oh, I didn’t meant to imply you weren’t happy with children around you… was just thinking maybe you got some rude stares from others, and I thought that was unfortunate. I agree that most of us are more self conscious about our own kids than others… I’ve mostly tuned out baby cries at this point as they are so “normal” at our Masses! I’m sure, come my day, I’ll feel terrible when my little one acts up and chances are, most of the people around me won’t be too worried!
*

There was a children’s liturgy available, but they had to be school-age to go. I was so glad when they got to that point! Of course by then they were much more tractable in the pew - the worst was more or less over. I helped lead it during the years that they attended, and enjoyed it a lot.*

Ah yes, they have to be a certain age. I am thinking… in our parish 4 is about the age. One thing it has helped my sister with is she can focus on her two little ones more when she sends her oldest to children’s liturgy. Glad your kids got the chance to enjoy it too!

• (of course, I am under 30 ).*

Can you tell I’m not?

Lol, it sounded like you were talking from the perspective of someone who used to have little ones that are now older, so I assumed you were not in your 20’s. But no, you do not sound “old”! I also just know that a lot changed right around the time I was born, so I’ll often share my age to put in context my own perspective… my mom has shared some interesting stories/hardships she experienced growing up Catholic that I never experienced.
Well, I guess I have gotten over it - one of the perks of mature middle age. And I do have a sweet memory of one of my toddler sons in church - into the hush that followed our “Amen” after the priest had prayed, his scandalized little voice rang out - “Mummy!! He said “JESUS CHRIST”!!!” *

LOL… ah kids. I personally just love little stuff like that happening at Mass. I am glad you feel better about it, too. I look forward to the day when I have little ones at Mass even though I know I’ll probably find myself missing the “easy” single life occasionally.

 

[zaramarie81]

And what’s this about singles? I’ve attended a few weddings single and dateless - normally there’s at least a few other singles at any reception, and even where there haven’t been, I’ve found the couples more than sociable enough that I’ve had a good time.

Well, some of us are more introverted than others. It’s hard for me in crowds if I don’t know at least one other person already… especially if everyone else already knows each other and has inside jokes, etc. I think whenever I plan my wedding, I am going to try to make sure everyone has at least one person they will know there. I guess that’s me projecting my own concerns on others who may not need “help” socializing, but just want to make sure. Of course, I come from a family of introverts, so chances are, they will need “help” lol.

 

[CountrySinger]

Well, some of us are more introverted than others. It’s hard for me in crowds if I don’t know at least one other person already… especially if everyone else already knows each other and has inside jokes, etc. I think whenever I plan my wedding, I am going to try to make sure everyone has at least one person they will know there. I guess that’s me projecting my own concerns on others who may not need “help” socializing, but just want to make sure. Of course, I come from a family of introverts, so chances are, they will need “help” lol.

I agree. I’m very shy in large groups also. I’ve been to weddings that all the people know each other, and it is very uncomfortable. The couples are nice, but they tend to ignore everyone, because it is all about them. I hate feeling like a third wheel. Maybe it is an Oregon thing, because since I’ve moved, the married couples I’m friends with are very cool (except they try to set me up). Of course, Salem, Oregon is SO over the top family friendly, that singles are painted as evil. I’m glad I’m out of there.

 

[CountrySinger]

And what’s this about singles? I’ve attended a few weddings single and dateless - normally there’s at least a few other singles at any reception, and even where there haven’t been, I’ve found the couples more than sociable enough that I’ve had a good time.

It reminds single people what we don’t have. And in my case, would do anything for. One of my friends is infertile, and can’t stand to be around babies for the same reason. We are happy for the people, but wish we were them.
Maybe I’m extra sensitive about it, since my fiancee was killed just before the wedding, and every wedding brings up those memories. And if I’m alone, it is extra painful, that’s why I need a close friend who understands. It’s a weird dynamic, to be surrounded by happiness, and to be miserable.
I’m doing better now, only because I’ve met a good guy, and we have begun taling about marriage, so I might get my dream wedding after all.