For information on immigrating to Canada, understand life in Canada: Holding a wedding in a solemn and dignified hall offers a unique romantic experience. However, there are several important considerations to keep in mind when planning to hold a ceremony in this sacred place.
Are you a believer?
If you wish to hold a wedding in a Catholic church, at least one of the parties must be a Catholic. If you want to hold the ceremony in a Protestant church, both parties must be Christians. Regardless of whether it is a Catholic or Protestant ceremony, the couple must participate in some pre-marital counseling programs to gain a deeper understanding of each other's personalities, married life, and the meaning of marriage.
Wedding Preparation and Procedures
Before the wedding, a simple rehearsal can be arranged to ensure that everything goes smoothly on the actual wedding day. Simple decorations in the church are permissible, such as lightly embellishing the reception area or placing some flowers next to the VIP seats, but decorations should be kept simple for easy cleanup afterward. The wedding ceremonies for both Catholic and Protestant traditions share many similarities; below are some basic procedures for reference, with details to be discussed with the priest or pastor:
Catholic Wedding Ceremony
1. Processional Music
2. Entrance of the Couple
3. Hymn
4. Address by the Clergy, Couple's Acknowledgment of Guests
5. Readings, Hymn
6. Homily
7. Address by the Clergy to the Couple, Exchange of Vows and Rings
8. Recitation of the Lord's Prayer or Celebration of the Eucharist
9. Solemn Blessing of the Couple
10. Signing of the Marriage Certificate
11. Exiting the Church for Photos with Family and Friends and Tea Ceremony
Protestant Wedding Ceremony
1. Processional Music
2. Entrance of the Couple
3. Address by the Officiating Pastor
4. Hymn
5. Prayer
6. Readings, Special Music
7. Address by the Pastor to the Couple, Exchange of Vows and Rings, Signing of the Marriage License
8. Prayer, Hymn
9. Solemn Blessing of the Couple
10. Processional Music as the Couple Exits the Church
11. The Couple Re-enters the Hall to Thank Guests
12. Photos with Family and Friends, Refreshments Served