Q. I asked for our favorite song during our wedding. The Pastor and Music Director replied that it was not appropriate for liturgical use. Why not?
A. Your marriage liturgy should be a personal and memorable experience. But keep in mind that a Catholic wedding is much more than “your” ceremony. It is a sacrament, a liturgical expression of the Catholic Church’s faith and worship. Consequently, the Church gives great care to the texts used at a marriage, admitting only the Sacred Scripture and liturgical prayers to the celebration.
We are asked to bring the same care to the selection of music. Songs which originate in popular culture or from show business – even when they speak of God and blessing – have no place in the Church’s worship. They are best done at the rehearsal dinner or the reception when couples have the opportunity to explain their meaning to others.
Music chosen for a wedding should be music suitable for liturgy. That most often means that first consideration is given to choosing texts of the liturgy itself that the gathered assembly can sing.
Ask the Music Director to give you a copy of the repertoire available in your parish. You’ll be surprised how varied and beautiful it is.