mixed marriage - Nuptial Mass with Catholic and Jewish guests
My family is Catholic and wants a Nuptial Mass. My fiance's family is Jewish/Atheist. He doesn't mind having the Mass, but we're afraid that there will be a lot of awkwardness if half of the guests don't know the procedures, etc., and aren't able to receive Communion. How can we still have the Nuptial Mass, and reduce the awkwardness? Is it okay to send them a nice letter walking them through the Mass ahead of time? How would we go about doing this/wording this? Do you have any other suggestions?
(This post was
edited by TWQadmin on Apr 27, 2005, 2:29 PM)
Deacon Bob
INDEPENDANT CATHOLIC DEACON
Apr 27, 2005, 2:33 PM
Post #2 of 4
(2242 views)
Re: [Shelle_12] mixed marriage - Nuptial Mass with Catholic and Jewish guests
[In reply to]
I think a nice expaination of the Mass sent before hand would be nice but I would also include a program on the day of the wedding so they can follow along during the Mass. I am sure people will not bring the letter with them. Deacon Bob Tousey
RevSusanna
Interfaith Wedding Minister
Apr 27, 2005, 3:41 PM
Post #3 of 4
(2235 views)
Re: [Shelle_12] mixed marriage - Nuptial Mass with Catholic and Jewish guests
[In reply to]
The letter AND a detailed program is a wonderful idea. Having said that, there may be some Jewish guests who will still be uncomfortable. Another possibility would be to include some form of outreach. For example, choose Old Testament readings, in the Passing of the Sign of Peace the Jewish guests can opt to say Shalom! (When Jesus was breaking bread he most probably did at at a shabbis dinner.) Perhaps you could inform your priest about the sensitivity of his situation. He may have some ideas as to how to welcome your Jewish guests. The Catholic Church has come a long way in interfaith relations.
Re: [Shelle_12] mixed marriage - Nuptial Mass with Catholic and Jewish guests
[In reply to]
I fully agree with Deacon Bob and Rev. Susanna. As an Interfaith Wedding Officiant here in Seattle, and having been brought up in the Catholic church as a child/young woman, my suggestion would be wonderful program explaining the various rituals of the Christian tradition and including a ritual or reading that would honor the Jewish tradition. If your Priest or Deacon is "hip" and of contemporary mind, he may be pleased to extend a welcoming to your non-Christian friends/relatives. Ask...you might be surprised! Annemarie Juhlian, Wedding Officiant & Minister
mixed marriage - Nuptial Mass with Catholic and Jewish guests
