Protocol of a Catholic Wedding

If your ceremony is Catholic, it's essential to know the entrance protocol, the priest's opening remarks, the location of family members, and how the Mass unfolds. That's why we'll explore the protocol for Catholic weddings here.

What is the order of entry?

Guests

The first to arrive at the ceremony are the guests, as their presence will mark the moment of the bride's entrance. It is recommended that guests arrive 15 to 30 minutes before the start of the religious ceremony.

Boyfriend and parents

Before the groom is ready at the altar, the priest must arrive first, followed by the guests. Once most are seated, the groom makes his entrance, accompanied by his mother, or he may be accompanied by both parents.

Godfathers, godmothers, bridesmaids or best men

Next, the godfathers and godmothers enter, bearing rings, ribbons, and coins. Then, the bridesmaids make their entrance, sometimes accompanied by the best men, followed by the pageboys and pagegirls.

Girlfriend and parents

To complete the procession, the bride enters the church accompanied by her father, or sometimes they prefer to be accompanied by her mother or both parents.

Ceremony

Once at the altar, the bride's father and the groom's mother make the official ceremony, saying blessings for the couple. Then, the groom stands to the right and the bride to the left, both facing the priest to begin the Catholic wedding ceremony.

The priest welcomes everyone and begins with a blessing, followed by a greeting to those present and an introduction about love and the family that is being formed.

This is followed by a formal presentation of the bride and groom, songs, a penitential rite, and the liturgy. After the arrival of all the guests, the ceremony continues with thanksgiving, Bible readings by pre-designated guests, and possibly literature or poems alluding to the marriage.

After this step, the wedding vows follow, followed by the godparents' presence for the ceremony of the arras, rings, and lasso. The entire ceremony lasts approximately 40 to 60 minutes.

The exit

At the end of the rite of peace, the guests leave the church to wait for the bride and groom and greet them with rice, flowers, or bubbles.

The newlyweds' exit marks the close of the ceremony, with the bride and groom exiting first, followed by the best men, bridesmaids, and close family members. After the signing of the certificates, the bride and groom join the guests to continue the celebration.

It is advisable to wait until the ceremony is over to present wedding favors, respecting the protocol and solemnity of the event.