Catholic Readings for Weddings: A Guide to Meaningful Passages

The celebration of a Catholic wedding is a sacred occasion that calls for the reading of passages that reflect the love, commitment, and faith of the couple. Catholic readings for weddings come from a wide range of sources, including the Bible, the writings of the Church Fathers, and the lives of the saints.

Choosing the Right Readings

The choice of readings for your wedding should be a deeply personal one that reflects the values and beliefs of the couple. Consider these factors when selecting your readings:

• Meaning: Choose readings that speak to the meaning and significance of marriage as a sacrament.
• Relevance: Select passages that resonate with your own experiences and aspirations as a couple.
• Length: The readings should be brief enough to be included in the ceremony without being overwhelming.

Popular Catholic Readings for Weddings

Here are some of the most popular Catholic readings for weddings:

From the Bible

• Genesis 2:18-24: The story of the creation of Eve and the blessing of marriage.
• Song of Songs 2:8-10, 14: A love poem that expresses the beauty and passion of marriage.
• 1 Corinthians 13:4-13: The famous "Love Chapter" that describes the qualities of true love.
• Ephesians 5:21-33: An instruction on the biblical model of marriage, emphasizing the mutual love and respect between husband and wife.
• John 15:9-17: Jesus's commandment to love one another, an essential aspect of a Christian marriage.

From the Writings of the Church Fathers

• St. Augustine, Sermon 276: A sermon on the importance of love and unity in marriage.
• St. John Chrysostom, Homily 20 on 1 Corinthians: A meditation on the sacrament of marriage and the role of the Holy Trinity in it.

A guide to living a Christian life, including advice on marriage and the importance of mutual support.

From the Lives of the Saints

• The Story of St. Valentine: The legend of the saint who became associated with love and romance.
• The Life of St. Teresa of Avila: A story of a woman who dedicated her life to God and became a powerful spiritual teacher.
• The Marriage of St. Catherine of Siena: A tale of a young woman who was betrothed to Christ and lived a life of holiness and service.

The selection of Catholic readings for your wedding is an opportunity to express the deep meaning and significance of your union. By choosing passages that reflect your faith and aspirations as a couple, you can create a ceremony that is both beautiful and meaningful.

Frequently Asked Questions on Catholic Readings for Weddings

How do we choose the readings for our Catholic wedding ceremony?

The choice of readings for your wedding ceremony should reflect your faith and the nature of your relationship. Consult with your priest or officiant for guidance and recommendations.

What types of readings are typically used in Catholic weddings?

Commonly used readings include:

• Old Testament Readings: Passages from the Hebrew Bible that speak of love, marriage, and God's covenant with his people.
• New Testament Readings: Selections from the Gospels or Epistles that highlight the importance of love, fidelity, and the sacrament of marriage.
• Responsorial Psalms: Verses sung or read between the readings that express praise or petition.

Are there any specific readings that are required for a Catholic wedding?

No, there are no specific readings required by the Catholic Church. However, some popular and traditional choices include:

• Old Testament Reading: Song of Solomon 2:8-10, 14-16a
• New Testament Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:31-13:13 (the "Love Chapter")

Can we choose readings from outside the Bible?

Yes, it is possible to include readings from other sources, such as books of saints, writings of the Church Fathers, or poetry. However, it is recommended to discuss your selections with your priest or officiant.

How long should the readings be?

The readings should be short and meaningful, typically lasting around 2-3 minutes each.

Who reads the readings at a Catholic wedding?

Traditionally, the readings are read by family members or friends. You can also choose to have a lector from the parish read them.

Can we have multiple readings in our ceremony?

Yes, you can have as many readings as you like. However, consider the length and flow of your ceremony and choose readings that complement each other.