Planning your Nuptial Mass or Ceremony

Selecting Readings and Lectors

For weddings, three readings are normally chosen. The first reading is usually chosen from the Old Testament, followed by a sung Responsorial Psalm and a second reading taken from the New Testament. There is then a reading from one of the four gospels.

While the Gospel is always read by a priest or deacon, the earlier readings can be read by others from the congregation. Often couples choose family members or close friends to proclaim the first and second readings. Select readers with care; not everyone feels comfortable reading aloud before others, nor is everyone able to proclaim loudly and clearly. Because we believe that God is present in the proclamation of this Word, you will want it to be easily heard and understood. Be sure to give your readers copies of the passages well before the wedding so they can prepare and allow time during the rehearsal for them to practice in church on the microphone that will be used during your wedding.

Please pray about your choices and let your parish priest know at your third pre-nuptial meeting.