Two of my close friends (also close friends of the groom) are Jewish, but we are having a very traditional Catholic wedding. I want them to participate in a meaningful way and we thought of having them as readers in the wedding. Is this inappropriate or do you think it would conflict with their religious beliefs. We will not have them read from the New Testament, and we are hoping we can find a good secular reading they can do, but do you think this would be ok? Also, what are some suggestions of wedding readings they might be able to do. Thanks!
Clearly, an Old Testament reading would not offend their beliefs and would, in my opinion, be appropriate. Also, there are some New Testament passages used commonly at weddings which might be appropriate such as Paul's First Letter to the Cornintians 13. Deacon Bob Tousey
The Song of Solomon would be very appropriate. A secular reading which is popular with my interfaith congregations is The Art of A Good Marriage II by Wilfred Arlan Peterson. These are both featured in my book along with many other appropriate readings.
Having said that, I would speak to your friends beforehand with great open hearted sensitivity. Whether they are comfortable is a matter of personal belief. For example, some people of the Jewish faith would feel very uncomfortable participating in the ceremony, or having the Torah referred to as The Old Testament. And there are many Jewish people who would be honored to participate. It would be best to ask them beforehand.
Catholic Ceremony--Jewish Readers
