My sister left the church to become a Catholic. Should I attend her wedding?
Question:
Howdy,
You do such a thorough job answering practical questions, so I thought I'd pose this issue to you that I'm struggling with:
I grew up in a strong Christian home, but my sister recently converted to Catholicism and is now engaged to her Catholic boyfriend. I'm struggling to determine whether I can attend or participate in their wedding in good faith since it will likely be a whole Mass. Would attendance constitute affirmation of Catholic doctrines or participation in unauthorized worship? Should I refrain from showing my disagreement with her recent conversion (no doubt for the purpose of enabling this wedding)? How would things change if I were in the wedding party?
Thanks for all the great work you do. I appreciate your taking the time.
Answer:
It depends on whether you are attending as an observer or a participant. Attendants to a Roman Catholic wedding are often asked to participate in the Mass if they are Catholics or take on minor parts if they are non-Catholics. While they desire audience members to participate in certain parts, they are tolerant of those who do not wish to join in. A marriage is still a union done before God (Matthew 19:4-6), so that aspect can be witnessed.
Be clear that you'll attend only to witness their union; however, you will not participate in their worship. If she decides not to invite you, that will be her decision.
There are other aspects of a wedding that you'll also need to consider. There will likely be a reception. This becomes difficult if your sister was withdrawn from by the church. It may be better to skip the reception since it is to represent that the parties are in fellowship.
Response:
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. I appreciate it.
