Secular Music At Catholic Weddings: What's Allowed?

The use of secular music at Catholic weddings is a topic that has sparked debate among couples, church officials, and musicians alike. While some individuals express disappointment at not being able to include their favourite secular songs, the Catholic Church maintains specific guidelines for liturgical celebrations. The Church considers a wedding to be a sacred liturgy, and thus, music selections should align with this context. This means that popular and secular music, regardless of their significance to the couple, are typically not allowed during the ceremony. However, there may be some flexibility with prelude music, and instrumental versions of secular songs might be permitted in certain cases. Ultimately, the decision rests with the parish priest, music director, or minister, who have the responsibility of ensuring the suitability of musical choices.

The role of music in Catholic weddings

Music is a vital part of Catholic weddings. It enhances the worship experience and celebrates the sacrament of marriage. The Catholic Church considers a wedding liturgy to be a prayer, and so the music chosen for the ceremony should be prayerful and align with the solemnity of the occasion.

Guidelines for choosing music

When selecting music for a Catholic wedding, it is crucial to consult with the priest and the church venue for specific rules and regulations. While there is no official list of Catholic wedding songs, the music chosen must adhere to certain guidelines. It should be prayerful, accessible, and beautiful.

• Prayerful: As a Catholic liturgy is intended to sanctify the worshippers and give glory to God, the music chosen should reflect this. Popular secular music is often not permitted, and even modern Catholic songs typically need to be pre-approved.
• Accessible: Catholic liturgy expects that everyone in the assembly participates, so the music chosen should be accessible and familiar to the guests so they can sing along.
• Beautiful: The church calls for the chosen music to be beautiful, as beauty is considered a window into the divine. While this is subjective, music that is widely accepted by numerous congregations should be suitable.

Suggested Catholic wedding songs

• Ave Maria: A timeless and reverent hymn invoking the Virgin Mary's intercession, perfect for setting a peaceful, sacred tone.
• Ode to Joy: This classic by Beethoven has religious lyrics and flexible instrumentation.
• La Rejouissance: This song by Handel has the right jubilant tempo for a wedding recessional and works best when played by instrumentalists.
• This is the Day: There are many versions of this song, but it gives the right celebratory feel and tempo to close the service.
• Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing: The upbeat version of this song works well for a recessional, while the soft, solemn version can be used for communion.
• O God Beyond All Praising: This huge statement song will sound amazing if performed by a choir or a group of singers.
• Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee: An uplifting hymn that expresses joy and gratitude for God's love and blessings.
• Here I Am, Lord: A song that signifies a readiness to respond to God's call and dedicate one's life to serving Him.
• Love Divine, All Loves Excelling: This hymn celebrates the surpassing love of God and invokes His blessings upon the couple's journey of love and commitment.
• Panis Angelicus: A Eucharistic hymn that reflects on the sacred presence of Christ in the Eucharist, invoking His grace upon the couple's union.

While there are guidelines and restrictions on the music that can be played at a Catholic wedding, there are still many options available to create a meaningful and personalized ceremony that adheres to the Church's liturgical guidelines.

Secular music at weddings of other denominations

The use of secular music at weddings varies across different denominations of Christianity. For instance, secular music is prohibited in Lutheran weddings. In contrast, Jehovah's Witnesses allow secular music at their weddings. For Catholic weddings, the use of secular music is generally discouraged, and most parishes will not allow it. However, some Catholic parishes may be more flexible, and couples are advised to consult their parish music director or priest to determine what will be deemed appropriate.

For non-denominational Christian weddings, the decision to include secular music is typically left to the couple's discretion and the preferences of the person officiating the ceremony. Ultimately, the couple should ensure that the music aligns with the beliefs and values of their faith.

How to choose music that aligns with Catholic liturgy

Music is a vital part of a Catholic wedding ceremony, enhancing the worship experience and celebrating the sacrament of marriage. When choosing music for a Catholic wedding, it's important to select pieces that align with the liturgy and reflect the sacredness of the occasion. Here are some guidelines to help you choose music that aligns with Catholic liturgy:

Understand the Role of Music in the Catholic Mass

The Catholic Mass is a liturgical celebration with distinct segments, each requiring specific music selections. Understanding the role of music in each part of the Mass will help you choose appropriate songs. These segments include the processional, responsorial psalm, offertory and communion, recessional, and nuptial blessing.

Consult with the Priest and Church Venue

Before selecting any songs, it's crucial to consult with the priest and the church venue. They can provide specific rules and regulations regarding music allowed in the ceremony. Each parish may have slightly different guidelines, so it's important to familiarise yourself with their expectations.

Choose Prayerful and Sacred Music

As a Catholic liturgy, the wedding ceremony is intended to sanctify the worshippers and give glory to God. Therefore, the chosen music should reflect this solemnity and align with the prayerful atmosphere. Popular secular music is often discouraged or prohibited, and even modern Catholic songs may require pre-approval.

Select Accessible Music for Guest Participation

Catholic liturgy encourages the active participation of the congregation. Choose music that is accessible and familiar to your guests, allowing them to sing along and engage fully in the celebration. This ensures that everyone can join in, regardless of their musical background.

Opt for Beautiful and Uplifting Melodies

The church calls for music that is beautiful, as beauty is believed to be a window into the divine. While beauty can be subjective, selecting music that is widely accepted and loved by many congregations can increase the chances of your choices being approved. Opt for uplifting and joyful melodies that reflect the happiness of the occasion.

Personalise with Meaningful Hymns

In addition to the above guidelines, you can add a personal touch by incorporating meaningful hymns or psalms that reflect your spiritual journey as a couple. Consult with the parish music director to choose psalms that harmonise with the liturgical season and your faith journey. You can also include your favourite verses or those significant to your relationship.

Remember, the key is to create a sacred and prayerful atmosphere while also celebrating the joy and love of the occasion. By following these guidelines and working closely with your priest and music director, you can choose music that aligns perfectly with Catholic liturgy and makes your wedding ceremony a memorable and meaningful experience for all.

The difference between prelude, processional, and recessional music

While the Catholic Church strongly discourages the use of secular music during weddings, some couples have had success in incorporating non-religious songs into their ceremonies. If you're hoping to include secular music in your Catholic wedding, it's best to consult your parish music director, as rules vary between parishes.

Now, let's delve into the difference between prelude, processional, and recessional music. These three types of music play distinct roles in the wedding ceremony:

Prelude Music:

Prelude music is played as guests arrive and take their seats before the start of the wedding liturgy. Musicians typically select this music, choosing pieces that strike a balance between the joyous nature of the occasion and the solemnity of the prayerful reflection. The prelude consists of about 10-15 minutes of music and sets the tone for the wedding.

Processional Music:

The processional music accompanies the entrance of the bridal party and the bride. In some weddings, the bridesmaids walk down the aisle to the processional music, followed by the bride's separate entrance to her chosen song. However, in other cases, the bride enters with her bridesmaids to the processional music, combining the two. This music is usually instrumental and marks a grand moment in the ceremony.

Recessional Music:

The recessional music is played as the newly married couple and their wedding party exit the ceremony at the end of the liturgy. This music is typically upbeat and often holds special significance for the couple, such as 'their song'. It needs to be fairly lengthy to accommodate the exit of the wedding party and guests.

In summary, the prelude music welcomes guests and sets the atmosphere, the processional music accentuates the bridal party's entrance, and the recessional music celebrates the newlywed couple's exit as they begin their married life together.

Popular Catholic wedding songs

The Catholic Church considers a wedding liturgy to be a prayer, and so the music used should be easily identifiable as such. This means that popular, secular music is often discouraged, and you will need approval from your priest for the songs you choose. However, there are many beautiful and meaningful options to choose from, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Here are some popular choices for each part of your wedding:

Prelude Songs

• "Ave Maria" – A timeless hymn that invokes the Virgin Mary's intercession, perfect for setting a peaceful, sacred tone.
• "How Great Thou Art" – A powerful hymn that celebrates God's majesty and reflects gratitude and reverence.
• "Amazing Grace" – A beloved gospel song about redemption and grace, creating a moving spiritual atmosphere.
• "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" – A hymn that praises God's faithfulness and offers a message of trust and love for the couple's future.
• "Blessed Assurance" – A joyful gospel song about salvation and trust in God, adding an uplifting, celebratory feel.

Processional Songs

• "Arioso" – A popular favourite from J.S. Bach, with one of the world's most magnificent melodies.
• "Panis Angelicus" – A great addition to Catholic wedding bridal processional songs, drawn from the hymn "Sacris Solemniis".
• "This Is the Day" – A popular classic wedding song that remains relevant and church-approved since the 1970s.
• "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" – A popular choice for Catholic weddings, especially when rendered by a simple soloist.
• "In Christ Alone" – A popular modern Christian song with an Irish melody, best played by a talented violinist.
• "Ave Maria" – A timeless and reverent hymn dedicated to the Virgin Mary, often chosen to seek her intercession and honour.

Recessional Songs

• "Ode to Joy" – A classic with religious lyrics and flexible instrumentation.
• "La Rejouissance" – The right jubilant tempo for a wedding recessional, best played by instrumentalists.
• "This Is the Day (That the Lord Has Made)" – A celebratory feel and tempo to close the service.
• "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" – The upbeat version works well for a recessional.
• "O God Beyond All Praising" – A huge statement song that sounds amazing when performed by a choir or group of singers.

Communion Songs

• "Prayer of Saint Francis" – A traditional option with meaningful lyrics that reflect the significance of communion.
• "Psalm 91 (On Eagle's Wings)" – A world-famous song that many associate with the presentation of communion.
• "Canticorum Iubilo" – The holiest of songs played during communion at a Catholic wedding, with Latin verses.
• "A Nuptial Blessing" – A beautiful blessing for the couple, asking for God's guidance and protection.
• "Love Will Never Fail (I Corinthians 13)" – A reflection on the enduring nature of love, with a joyful and upbeat melody.

First Dance Songs

• "Can't Help Falling in Love" – A classic romantic song about true love, perfect for a couple's first dance.
• "The Lovers' Waltz Duet" – A touching violin duet that will give you chills.
• "Perfect Symphony" – A twist on Ed Sheeran's original, featuring the beautiful voice of Andrea Bocelli.
• "A Thousand Years" – With deep lyrics and a soothing melody, this song is a popular choice for weddings.
• "Commitment" – A pledge of enduring love and commitment, seamlessly fitting into a Catholic wedding ceremony.

Frequently asked questions