Music Choice At Catholic Weddings: Your Freedom Explained

Music is a crucial part of a Catholic wedding ceremony, but can you choose your own? While there is no official list of Catholic wedding songs, there are some important guidelines to follow. The music should be liturgical, prayerful, accessible, and beautiful. It should also be chosen in consultation with the priest and church venue, who will have specific rules and regulations. While popular music is usually strongly discouraged, couples do have some freedom to choose music that is meaningful to them, as long as it aligns with the solemnity of the occasion.

The role of music in Catholic Mass

Music is a crucial part of the Catholic Mass, and its role is to help the assembly pray together more vibrantly. According to St. Augustine, "He who sings, prays twice." The Church calls music a "necessary" part of the liturgy, and it is meant to unite the whole assembly in one voice, becoming a window into divine beauty.

There are three main criteria for choosing music for a Catholic Mass:

• Is it prayerful? The purpose of Catholic liturgy is to glorify God and sanctify the worshippers, so the music should reflect this. Popular secular music is often not permitted as it does not fulfil this criterion.
• Is it accessible? In Catholic worship, the assembly is expected to actively participate and sing along. Therefore, the music chosen should be accessible and familiar to the congregation so that they can join in.
• Is it beautiful? Beauty is considered a window to the divine, so the music used in Catholic Mass should be beautiful. This criterion is subjective and depends on personal tastes and local culture. However, skilled musicians can elevate a piece and make it more beautiful.

When choosing music for a Catholic Mass, it is important to work with the parish music minister or director, who can guide you in selecting music that aligns with liturgical guidelines and the sacredness of the occasion. While there is no official list of approved music, the parish staff will ensure that the chosen music is suitable and follows the principles and rules of Catholic liturgies.

The specific music choices will depend on the different parts of the Mass. For example, the processional marks the beginning of the Mass and should be an uplifting piece reflecting the joy of the moment. In contrast, the offertory and communion segments call for music that emphasises love, sharing, and spiritual connection. The recessional, which signifies the end of the Mass and the start of the married life, is typically an upbeat and celebratory tune.

Choosing hymns for the entrance procession

Hymns are a traditional part of Catholic weddings and can be used to connect couples to a rich heritage of faith and devotion. They can also be used to enhance the worship experience and celebrate the sacrament of marriage. When choosing hymns for the entrance procession, it is important to select those that reflect the sacredness of the occasion and set a joyful tone for the ceremony. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you choose the perfect hymns for your Catholic wedding:

Consult with your parish priest and music director

Before selecting any songs, it is crucial to consult with your priest and the church venue for guidance on specific rules and regulations. They can provide you with information on the types of music allowed and any guidelines that need to be followed. Additionally, your parish music director or minister can suggest a range of hymns that are appropriate for your wedding and can assist you in finding musicians. Remember that even modern Catholic songs may need to be pre-approved, so be sure to check with them first.

Select hymns that align with the liturgical guidelines and the theme of your wedding

It is important to choose hymns that align with the liturgical guidelines and reflect the sacredness of the occasion. You can consider selecting hymns that are well-known and easily identifiable as prayerful. The choice of hymns can often be shaped by the text and readings chosen for your wedding. Consider hymns that explore different aspects of love, such as God's love for us, our love for God, or love for friends and neighbours. Other themes to consider include praise and thanksgiving, creation, ministry, discipleship, trust, guidance, and hope.

Opt for popular and well-known hymns

To make the ceremony enjoyable for your guests, consider selecting popular and well-known hymns that your guests can easily join in singing. You can also choose tunes that are easy for your guests to pick up and sing along to. This will encourage active participation and create a sense of unity during the service.

Personalise your selection

Make your selection personal by choosing hymns that hold special meaning for you and your partner. Consider incorporating favourite verses or those that are significant to your relationship. You can also reflect on your spiritual journey together and choose psalms that harmonise with the liturgical season and your faith journey.

Examples of popular Catholic wedding hymns for the entrance procession

• "Ave Maria" by Franz Schubert
• "Panis Angelicus" by Saint Thomas Aquinas
• "This is the Day" by Scott Wesley Brown
• "Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing" by Robert Robinson
• "In Christ Alone" by Keith Getty
• "Arioso" by Johann Sebastian Bach
• "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee"
• "Here I Am, Lord"
• "Love Divine, All Loves Excelling"
• "Be Thou My Vision"

Reflecting on the Liturgy of the Word

The Liturgy of the Word is a vital part of a Catholic wedding ceremony, where the couple encounters God through scripture and the sacraments. It is based on ancient Jewish worship patterns, juxtaposing several Bible passages to emphasise God's enduring presence. The Liturgy of the Word includes scripture readings, a homily, the creed, and the General Intercessions or Prayer of the Faithful.

For a Catholic wedding, three readings are usually chosen, with one reading from the Old Testament, followed by a Responsorial Psalm, and then a reading from the New Testament. This is followed by a reading from one of the four gospels, preceded by an Alleluia or another sung verse. The gospel is always read by a priest or deacon, while the earlier readings can be done by other members of the congregation, such as family or close friends. It is important to select readers who feel comfortable reading aloud and can proclaim the readings clearly and confidently. The readings are done from a "lectionary," expressing reverence for the Word of God.

The readings chosen for a Catholic wedding liturgy proclaim God's Word and the Church's faith about marriage. Couples are encouraged to reflect on the readings and choose those that resonate with their hopes and dreams for their Christian marriage. There are nine options for the first reading, 13 for the second, and 10 for the Gospel, allowing couples to select those that best align with their beliefs and values.

Music is an integral part of the Liturgy of the Word, and while couples have some freedom in choosing their wedding music, it must adhere to specific criteria. The music should be prayerful, accessible, and beautiful. Popular or secular music is generally not permitted, as it detracts from the liturgical nature of the ceremony. Working with the parish music minister or director of liturgy and music is essential to ensure the chosen music enhances the sacredness of the occasion.

The Liturgy of the Word is a profound moment in a Catholic wedding, where the couple and the congregation unite in prayer and celebrate Christ's presence through scripture. It is a time for reflection and a reminder of God's enduring love and blessing on the couple's journey towards Christian marriage.

Music for the presentation of gifts and altar preparation

Music is a crucial part of a Catholic wedding ceremony. It is meant to unite the assembly in prayer and give glory to God. While there is no official list of Catholic wedding songs, the Church does offer three criteria for choosing liturgical music that can be applied to your choice of wedding music: Is it prayerful? Is it accessible? Is it beautiful?

When it comes to the presentation of gifts and altar preparation, there are several songs that can be chosen to express gratitude and reverence. Here are some options to consider:

• "Christ be Our Light" by Farrell: This song is found in the hymnals of St. Thomas More Catholic Church and can be used during the offertory/preparation of the gifts.
• "Companions on the Journey" by Landry: This song is also found in the hymnals and can be used during the offertory/preparation of the altar.
• "Servant Song" by McGargill: This hymn is another option for the offertory/preparation of the gifts and can be found in the hymnals.
• "The Summons" by Kelvingrove: This song is suitable for the offertory/preparation of the altar and can be found in the hymnals.
• "We are Many Parts" by Haugen: Found in the hymnals, this hymn is appropriate for the offertory/preparation of the gifts.
• "When Love is Found" by O Waly Waly: This song is listed as an option for the offertory/preparation of the gifts in the hymnals of St. Thomas More Catholic Church.
• "Wherever You Go" by Weston Priory: This hymn is suitable for the offertory/preparation of the altar and can be found in the hymnals.

In addition to these options, you may also consider instrumental music during the presentation of gifts and altar preparation. Instrumental music can include pieces played on the organ, piano, violin, flute, or harp.

Remember to consult with your parish priest and music director to ensure that your chosen songs align with the specific rules and regulations of your church venue. They can provide guidance and help you select music that reflects the sacredness and joy of the occasion.

Song choices for the nuptial blessing and ring exchange

When choosing songs for a Catholic wedding, it's important to consult with the priest and the church venue for guidance on specific rules and regulations. While there's no official list of Catholic wedding songs, songs should be prayerful and align with the solemnity of the occasion.

Nuptial Blessing

• "A Nuptial Blessing" by Michael Joncas: "May God bless you, hold, and keep you/May God's mercy shine on you, guide your work, and guard your resting, keep your love forever new".
• "Ave Maria": A timeless and reverent hymn dedicated to the Virgin Mary, seeking her intercession and honour.
• "Be Thou My Vision" by Audrey Assad: "Be thou my vision, O Lord of my heart/Naught be all else to me, save that thou art/Thou my best thought, by day or by night/Waking or sleeping, thy presence my light".
• "The Prayer" by Josh Groban and Charlotte Church: "I pray you'll be our eyes/And watch us where we go/And help us to be wise/In times when we don't know/Let this be our prayer when we lose our way".
• "Salut D'Amour" by Edward Elgar: Written for the piano and violin, this song would be a wonderful symphonic addition.

Ring Exchange

• "This is the Day" by Scott Wesley Brown: "This is the day that the Lord hath made/And I'm so glad He made you/With each rising sun you are here by my side/You are more than a dream come true".
• "Arioso" by J.S. Bach: A soft classical piece that is a favourite with many couples.
• "Gabriel's Oboe" by Ennio Morricone: A sentimental piece for the bride's entrance.
• "Trumpet Tune in C Major, ZT 697" by Peter Hurford and Michael Laird Brass Ensemble: A magical piece when played by a solo organist.
• "The Prayer" by Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli: A soul-stirring duet to foster unity and reflection.

Remember to choose songs that reflect the sacramental nature of marriage, emphasising the couple's commitment and the blessing of their union.

Frequently asked questions