+ Recommendations for choosing readers, as well as appropriate options for all Scripture readings, can be found here, as provided by the Catholic Diocese of Peoria: The Gospel should be proclaimed by the Officiant, also from the church’s pulpit or lectern.It is preferred that the couple, well beforehand, choose ‘readers’ for the first and second readings, who should proclaim them from the church’s pulpit or lectern.There will be a First Reading, followed by (ideally) a sung Responsorial Psalm a Second Reading, followed by (ideally) a sung ‘Alleluia’ verse and a Gospel Reading.This should be done well before the wedding day.
It is appropriate and preferable that the couple choose readings from Sacred Scripture that convey what they believe God is saying to and about them and their marriage to each other.The Officiant invites the congregation to be seated Chairs or specified seating should be provided for all in the wedding party, facing the altar. We ask you this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. May their lives always bear witness to the reality of that love. With faith in you and in each other, they pledge their love today. Now, let us pray… Father, you have made the bond of marriage a holy mystery, a symbol of Christ’s love for his Church. The Officiant welcomes the guests, reminding them that God is present and anxious to bless N.In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. The entire wedding party faces the altar and Officiant.The father / alternate then moves to his pre-arranged place.Bride processes to the altar, escorted by her father (or alternative escort), who, when arriving at the front, places her hand inside that of the groom.Maid/Matron of honor processes to the altar next to the bridesmaids.Ring bearer and flower girl process to their pre-arranged places.The bridesmaids slowly process to the front altar and line up in order on the opposite side of the groom, best man, and groomsmen.The Officiant should invite the congregation to stand. followed by the groom, best man and groomsmen, who line up in order facing the center aisle, all facing the congregation.The Officiant processes from the sacristy to the front of the aisle before the altar.The mother of the groom, then the mother of the bride, are escorted from the vestibule to their seats.With appropriate instrumental musical accompaniment, the wedding party processes in a dignified manner from the church vestibule to the main altar.