When it comes to a Catholic wedding, each detail is as important as the next, so to make sure your big day goes according to plan follow this timeline for a beautiful, stress-free ceremony.
Catholic Mass Checklist
12 Months Before
- Begin to envision your ceremony. Would you prefer deep meaningful readings, or song to express the words on the day? Do you want to include communion?
- Pick wedding date and time preferences. Depending on the church, there maybe be times when the church is not available.
- Choose a church and a priest.
- Arrange a meeting with a priest.
- Ask about the church requirements, i.e. will you be required to go through a pre-marital course?
- If either of you or your partner is not Catholic, ask your priest about intermarriage requirements.
- Ask your priest about dress requirements
- Enquire about church rules, i.e. some churches may not allow confetti.
6-8 Months Before
- Pick out your stationery for the invitations and mass booklets.
- Choose ceremonial music and musicians.
- It is vital that you consult with your priest on this. Some churches will only allow religious music and may frown upon non-religious or pop music.
3-4 Months Before
- Confirm with your priest that you have sent off the notification to marry. (This must be sent at least 3 months prior to your wedding day.)
- Decide who will be part of the ceremony. Choose your readers, singers etc.
- Organize ceremony and reception decoration needs, such as a red carpet, flowers, and candles.
- Set dates for when you need to complete the forms such as a pre-nuptial declaration for the church.
- Make sure you have your letter of freedom to marry and your baptismal certificates.
3-4 Weeks Before
- Have a final meeting with your priest.
- Finalize vows, readings and other special ceremony details.
1-2 Weeks Before
- Rehearse the ceremony
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Submitted by clare russell on Thursday 15 March 2022