I was raised Presbyterian & my fiancé was raised Catholic. Religion does not play much of a role in either of our lives, however both of our mothers are insistent that we marry in their church. His mother insists on an full mass, my mother hates that idea and would prefer a traditional protestant wedding ceremony. It seems that even two so similar religions are not compatible.
Could you give me an idea of how we could incorporate both religions in one ceremony so no one would feel that their beliefs aren't respected? What things should we include/exclude from the ceremony? How would it work to have two officiates, one from each faith? What about two ceremonies? Do you think a non-religious ceremony (fine by me & my fiancé) would solve the problem or make it worse?
Thanks!
RevSusanna
Interfaith Wedding Minister
/ Moderator
You are asking many of the right questions. I talk about these options in my book. I would first ask you, "What is YOUR preference?" How do you envision your wedding ceremony? How do you want to present yourselves to your families, friends and the world at large? Remember that this is the birthday of your marriage! You are showing your families the way of things to come. Would you prefer your ceremony to be co-officiated by a Catholic priest and a Protestant minister? This may be possible depending on your faiths and the open-mindedness of the clergy people involved. Some couples have two ceremonies to appease both sides of the family. Some have a Unitarian or an interfaith minister bring in aspects and prayers of both religions in a unified service. Some decide to avoid the religious issue altogether and choose a humanist ceremony. These are issues you first need to discuss between you and your fiance`. THEN you can approach your parents in a united front. The other consideration is how you will raise your children---Catholic, Protestant, Unitarian, Humanist etc.
If you focus on love, you will create a meaningful ceremony that bridges boundaries. Where there is love, there is always a way.
Mixed Religion Ceremony Ideas: Catholic & Protestant
