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Catholic wedding ceremonies are quite intricate with a lot of symbolism. The ceremonies can be with a mass or without mass. The bride receives a special blessing and the couple is urged to respect, maintain and strengthen their love for one another. They are reminded to remain faithful and to fear God. I have only photographed wedding ceremonies with mass and the proceedings are as follows. The Entrance Rite – The entrance Hymn is sung while the wedding party proceeds to the altar followed by a greeting and an opening prayer. This is followed by Liturgy of the word which consists of a first reading and a second reading, punctuated at intervals by prayers and the singing of an assortment of hymns. This is followed by the Rite of Marriage.
Consisting of the consent and exchange of vows, and by the blessing of the rings and exchanging of the rings. The rings are placed on the thumb, index and middle finger whilst saying, "In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost”.
The couple seals their exchange with a kiss.
This is followed by the lighting of a single candle “unity candle” symbolizing two separate souls joining as one.
The preparation of the gifts, the bread and wine is prepared and “other” gifts are brought to the altar while the assembly sits and sings the offertory song. The priest then prays the Eucharistic prayer.
It is now time for Communion Rite. The couple receives a nuptial blessing; the priest faces them and prays over them. The bride receives a special blessing. The assembly is invited to offer one another a sign of peace. The church asks for peace for her and the whole human family. The newly married couple and assembly turn to those immediately around them and offer a handshake or a kiss accompanied by the words “peace is with you”
The ceremony concludes with communion and a blessing.
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