Monday, October 3, 2011

Christian Wedding Traditions






Christian Wedding Traditions
A traditional Christian wedding not only celebrates the union between two people, but is also considered a sacred sacrament in the Christian faith. The ceremony generally follows a certain format and takes place in front of the couple's friends and family members in the presence of a priest or minister. Most Christian weddings take place in a church or religious building, however, it's not uncommon for some couples to choose an outdoor setting at a formal gathering place.
Before the ceremony begins, the groomsmen typically act as ushers and direct guests to their seats. Important family members - parents and grandparents, for example, are often escorted down the aisle to their seats by one of the groomsmen. The Best Man and Groom are often in a private room or secluded area and it's the Best Man's job to try and keep the Groom calm and reassured.
The Bride and Bridesmaids arrive at the ceremony location and wait, out of sight, for a cue to begin the Bridal procession.
Before the Bridal procession begins, the Groom, Best Man, and Groomsmen stand in front of the altar along with the officiating priest. This is usually a signal that the Bridal procession is about to begin so guests stand up and look to the back of the church in anticipation of the Bride's arrival. A processionary march is usually played and the Bridal procession begins.