My boyfriend and I will be attending his cousin's wedding in June. His family is catholic, and to my knowledge, the wedding ceremony will be held in a catholic church.
I was raised in an atheist family, and though I appreciate religion and others religious beliefs, I tend to feel very uneasy when put in a religious setting as it has no meaning for me. Last family dinner I attended with his family, they said grace, and I had no idea how to cross myself. I ended up sitting quietly with my head down.
I have never attended a catholic wedding (or a catholic church for that matter) and I do not know what will be expected of me. I know that I am not supposed to take communion, but that's about it. I do not want to embarass myself or offend his family, but I don't know if it would be better to try to pretend I know what is happening, or if I should just sit quietly and let the rest of those at the wedding partake in the cermony's goings-on.
Are there any basic guidelines to follow to be respectful without giving up my convictions?
RevSusanna
Interfaith Wedding Minister
/ Moderator
May 30, 2007, 12:01 PM
Post #2 of 3
(691 views)
Re: [elena87] atheist guest at catholic wedding
[In reply to]
Hello,
I think it is important to be be both true to yourself and respectful. You are not supposed to take communion, as you said. There will be a periods of standing, sitting, kneeling and praying. You may stand and sit as others. However, when others kneel, you may remain seated. If you feel so moved, you can bow your head and meditate on peace when others are praying or kneeling. Just think of things that bring you peace or joy. Or imagine yourself in your favorite place in nature.
If anyone should ask, you can simply simply comment that you are not Catholic. They will understand.
(This post was
edited by TWQadmin on May 30, 2007, 12:03 PM)
DennyandKay
MARRIAGE PREPARATION ADVISORS
May 30, 2007, 6:59 PM
Post #3 of 3
(671 views)
Re: [elena87] atheist guest at catholic wedding
[In reply to]
Excellent advice from Rev. Susanna. We would just add that your boyfriend will most likely be willing to help you know when it's time to stand or be seated. Don't be concerned about not joining in the singing. Many dedicated Catholics don't sing either! No one will notice. Really.
It is a bit awkward at communion when people are filing past you, but there will be other non-Catholics present there so you won't be the only one remaining seated.
Go and enjoy the wedding! Everyone's attention will be on the bride and groom anyway! Kay and Dennis Flowers Authors of Catholic Annulment, Spiritual Healing
atheist guest at catholic wedding
