Wisconsin Wedding Articles » Wedding Planning
Having an interfaith wedding creates some concerns as to how the wedding ceremony should be officiated. There are no real differences between interfaith and interracial marriages from the standpoint that you are unifying a difference. You should approach an interfaith union with a mutual understanding and respect for the other person’s religious beliefs. This understanding serves both of your interests as well as you determine the best way to proceed in the marriage.
Bridging the difference between religions is not an easy task. After all wars have been fought throughout the history of the world based on differences in religious ideology. Before you seek understanding and acceptance from friends and family, it may be a good ideal to make sure that the two of you are in harmony. Having an understanding upfront as to the type of religious customs that the house will observe especially if children are or will be involved is essential to going forward as a married couple.
Once these understandings have been reached and agreed upon, family members must be brought into the fold. It may be helpful in some situations where families have strong religious beliefs, be it Catholic, Protestant, Jewish or Muslim, to ask that the meeting take place at a mosque, synagogue or church. Having one’s Imam, Pastor or Rabbi mediate the meeting may be necessary to promote dialogue and reach an interfaith understanding.
What has become more and more the tradition with interfaith wedding is the use of dual officicants. Having prayers and readings performed by ministers of different faith shows a willingness to embrace each other faith and preserve a sense of religious identity. Another approach is to use a non-denominational or interfaith minister who specializes in officiating mixed faith wedding ceremonies.
Customs that are unique to one religion may be incorporated as a part of the regular ceremony. The order of service should be chosen to reflect as broadly the religious differences and similarities that the couple shares. The interfaith pastor or dual officicants can work together to determine the best way to proceed with the wedding service and with your input, perform the wedding ceremony you desire.