Christian Wedding Traditions by Denomination

Christian weddings share many common elements, but different denominations have unique traditions, requirements, and ceremony structures. This guide provides an overview of how major Christian denominations approach marriage ceremonies.

Key Characteristics

Catholic weddings are considered one of the seven sacraments, making them a sacred religious covenant rather than simply a legal contract.

Requirements

• At least one partner must be baptized Catholic
• Pre-marital counseling (Pre-Cana) required
• Church ceremony strongly preferred
• Dispensation needed for interfaith marriages

Ceremony Elements

• Full Nuptial Mass (optional but common)
• Exchange of vows and rings
• Blessing and exchange of coins (arras) in some traditions
• Unity candle or other unity symbol
• Readings from Scripture
• Homily by the priest

Traditions

• White wedding dress symbolizing purity
• Walking down the aisle with father
• Throwing the bouquet
• No divorce; annulment only option

Anglican/Episcopal Weddings

Characteristics:

• Similar to Catholic ceremonies but with Protestant theology
• Use of Book of Common Prayer
• Liturgical structure with flexibility

Elements:

• Processional and recessional
• Scripture readings
• Exchange of vows and rings
• Blessing of the marriage
• Holy Communion (optional)

Lutheran Weddings

Characteristics:

• Emphasizes covenant between couple and God
• Biblical foundation central
• Simpler than high church traditions

Elements:

• Scripture-focused ceremony
• Traditional Protestant vows
• Blessing and prayer
• Optional unity candle
• Communion sometimes included

Baptist Weddings

Characteristics:

• Non-liturgical and flexible
• Emphasis on personal faith and Scripture
• Individual church autonomy affects traditions

Elements:

• Less formal than liturgical traditions
• Contemporary or traditional music choices
• Personal vows common
• Prayer and Scripture readings
• Unity symbols (candles, sand, etc.)

Methodist Weddings

Characteristics:

• Structured but not overly formal
• Balance of tradition and personal expression
• Community blessing emphasized

Elements:

• Liturgy from Book of Worship (optional)
• Exchange of vows and rings
• Unity candle popular
• Prayer and Scripture
• Blessing of the marriage

Presbyterian Weddings

Characteristics:

• Reformed theology influences ceremony
• Emphasis on covenant
• Orderly and traditional

Elements:

• Constitutional vows from Book of Common Worship
• Strong emphasis on Scripture
• Simpler than high church ceremonies
• Prayer and blessing
• Communion occasionally

Pentecostal/Charismatic Weddings

Characteristics:

• Spirit-led and less formal
• Contemporary worship elements
• Enthusiastic celebration

Elements:

• Praise and worship music
• Prophetic words or blessings
• Flexible ceremony structure
• Personal testimonies sometimes included
• Laying on of hands for blessing

Eastern Orthodox

Characteristics:

• Ancient liturgical tradition
• Rich symbolism and ritual
• Ceremony called “crowning”

Requirements:

• Both partners typically must be Orthodox
• Pre-marital counseling required
• Fasting before wedding
• Cannot marry during Lent

Ceremony Elements:

• Betrothal service
• Crowning of couple (stefana)
• Common cup sharing
• Dance of Isaiah (circular walk)
• No vows exchanged (blessing-based)
• Elaborate vestments and icons

Duration: Typically 45-60 minutes

Characteristics

• Greatest flexibility in ceremony structure
• Personal expression emphasized
• Biblical principles maintained
• Pastor or minister officiates

Common Elements

• Personalized vows
• Contemporary worship music
• Unity ceremonies (candle, sand, rope, etc.)
• Scripture readings chosen by couple
• Prayer and blessing
• Less formal atmosphere

Despite differences, most Christian weddings include:

1. Processional: Entrance of wedding party and bride
2. Invocation: Opening prayer
3. Scripture Readings: From Old and New Testament
4. Homily or Message: Brief teaching about marriage
5. Exchange of Vows: Promises between partners
6. Exchange of Rings: Symbol of covenant
7. Pronouncement: Declaration of marriage
8. First Kiss: Newly married couple
9. Recessional: Exit of couple and wedding party

When partners from different denominations marry:

• Choose one tradition or blend elements
• Secular officiant may be alternative
• Some denominations require dispensations
• Pre-marital counseling addresses religious differences
• Children’s religious upbringing discussed

Denomination policies vary widely:

• Catholic: Previous marriage must be annulled
• Orthodox: Requires special permission; simpler ceremony
• Protestant: Generally permits remarriage; varies by church
• Pre-marital counseling: Often more extensive

Consider:

• Your faith background and beliefs
• Family expectations and traditions
• Theological importance to you
• Church membership requirements
• Flexibility needs
• Spiritual significance desired

For specific country wedding traditions influenced by these denominations, explore our country guides:

• Italian Weddings (Catholic traditions)
• American Weddings (Various denominations)
• Greek Weddings (Orthodox traditions)
• British Weddings (Anglican traditions)

For questions about specific denominational requirements, contact your local church or religious leader.

This guide provides general information. Individual churches within denominations may have varying practices. Always consult with your specific church regarding requirements and traditions.