The Wedding Liturgy

Approximately one to two months prior to your ceremony you will meet with the PA for Marriage to plan the details of your ceremony using the planning booklet given to you at your first meeting. The Wedding Liturgy is modeled on the Sunday Liturgy of the Parish, with the addition of the Rite of Marriage and Processional Music. Following is an outline of the Liturgy:


INTRODUCTORY RITES

Gathering of Assembly
Processional
Gathering Song (optional)
Greeting
Opening Prayer


LITURGY OF THE WORD

First Reading – read by a friend or family member
Responsorial Psalm (sung by the Cantor)
Second Reading – read by a friend or family member
Gospel Acclamation (Alleluia—sung by the Cantor)
Gospel Reading – proclaimed by the priest
Homily – priest


RITE OF MARRIAGE

Exchange of Consent, Vows, Rings
Song after vows (optional)
Prayer of the Faithful


LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST
(for Weddings with Mass)

Preparation of Table and Gifts
Eucharistic Prayer Acclamations (Holy, Holy; Acclamation of Faith; Great Amen)
Breaking of Bread
Communion Procession


CLOSING

Nuptial Blessing
Lord’s Prayer
Final Blessing
Recessional
 

Lectors
In selecting someone to do the scripture readings, please keep in mind that the person who fills this liturgical role will be proclaiming the Word of God. These individuals should be instructed at the rehearsal on the appropriate timing and method to proclaiming the scriptures. It is most important that they be able to read so that the assembly can hear the Word of God.

Copies of the readings will be provided by the wedding coordinator and placed on the ambo (pulpit) prior to the liturgy. There is no need for the readers to carry a copy of the reading to the ambo.


Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
If your wedding will include the celebration of the Eucharist, there may be a need for extraordinary ministers to help with the distribution of Holy Communion. Family or friends who function as extraordinary ministers in their own parishes may fill this role during the wedding. Please discuss this matter with the PA for Marriage when planning the liturgy.