Author: Renella Livers

Duties of the Engaged Couple
Marriage in the Catholic Church, also called matrimony, is the "covenant by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life and which is ordered by its nature to the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring", and which "has been raised by Christ the Lord ...
A man and a woman share in the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony for no other purpose than one’s immortal soul encountering God.
Consider the seriousness of the path you are about to embark upon. If you believe that your sacramental union to your fiancé is a true calling from God Himself, then take seriously the guidelines presented here for the proper and holy preparation of not only your wedding day but also for the rest of your marriage and the life of the Church.
O Mary Immaculate, sweet Mother of the young, to your special care I entrust the decision I am to make as to my future wife/husband. You are my guiding Star! Direct me to the person with whom I can best cooperate in doing God's Holy Will, with whom I can live in peace, love and harmony in this life, and attain to eternal joys in the next.
Please Note:
As of June, 2022: A decision has been made on limitations on Bridal Party.
Groomsman- 8 total
Bridesmaid- 8-total.
This includes Jr. Groomsman and Jr. bridesmaids.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Process…………………………………………………….4
Roman Catholic Church Requirements
Pre-Nuptial Inquiry…………………………………….5
Marriage Preparation Programs………………………5
Natural Family Planning Class Series……………........6
Couples of Different Religious Backgrounds………….6
Couples Living Together Before Marriage……….........7
Ceremony……………………………………………...…7
Visiting Priests or Deacons……………………………...8
Documents Required…………………………………….9
Witnesses Required…………………...……………..…10
Fees & Donations……………………......……………...10
Civil Requirements
Age………………………..……………………………..10
Documents Needed………………………...…………...11
Waiting Period…………..……………………………...11
Witnesses/Signatures …………………………………..12
St. Mary Magdalen Parish Requirements
Sacrament of Penance………………………………….12
Liturgy of the Word………………………………..…..13
Wedding Coordinator………………………………….14
Wedding Rehearsal……………………………………..14
Flowers and Other Décor………………………………15
Photography/Videography……………………………..17
Commemorative Wedding Certificate ………………..18
Music for Your Wedding………………………………18
The Parish Music Director …………………………….19
Outside Musicians…………………………………....…19
Services Provided by the Music Director …………….20
Music Selections...………………………………………20
Fee ………………………………………………………20
Wedding music recordings…………………………21
Approved Vocal Selections …………………………....22
Instrumental Selections ………………………………..23
Frequently Asked Questions about Music ……………24
Ideas for Musical Ensembles ………………………….25
Checklist of Forms and Due Dates………26
Forms
Contact Information for Director of Music…………..27
Your Music Selections…………………………………29
The Wedding Liturgy Worksheet ……………..……..31
Process
1. In order to schedule a wedding at St. Mary Magdalen Church, the couple must call the parish office to schedule an appointment with Ms. Renella Livers, a member of the St. Mary Magdalen staff to receive the wedding guidelines. These guidelines include information on church and civil requirements, music information, and an acknowledgement that the couple will abide by these guidelines.
2. Schedule an appointment with the priest or deacon who will witness the wedding vows to begin the process (at the time the wedding is booked but at least 6 months before the wedding).
3. At the initial meeting with the priest or deacon the following will take place:
· The Pre-Nuptial Inquiry which begins the process of obtaining statistical information from the couple and confirms the wedding and rehearsal dates is completed.
· PREPARE/ENRICH assessment which is a tool used to assess areas in which the couple might need to focus in preparation for the Sacrament of Matrimony and life together as husband and wife and as parents is taken. The fee for this assessment is $45.
4. Take the Natural Family Planning classes. These classes meet once a month over a 3 month period. A schedule of classes is given to the couple at the initial meeting. There is a fee for participation in this program.
5. Attend one of the approved marriage preparation programs offered by the Diocese of Lafayette or St. Mary Magdalen Parish.
6. Have the final meeting with the priest or deacon to choose readings for the liturgy and make final preparations for the wedding day.
ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH REQUIREMENTS
These requirements apply whether a St. Mary Magdalen priest or visiting priest or deacon is the celebrant.
Pre-Nuptial Inquiry
· Paperwork which provides statistical information about the couple.
· Process which allows priest/deacon to investigate couple’s readiness to marry.
Marriage Preparation Programs
· In Home Marriage Preparation is presented by a married couple to one engaged couple which allows the married couple to mentor an engaged couple to successfully begin marriage on a solid foundation. There are six meetings in the home of the training couple.
· Catholic Engaged Encounter is a weekend experience designed to prepare each couple for their years of married life together. The cost is $150.00 for both parties and includes lodging and meals for the weekend. A deposit of $75 is required with registration form sent in by the parish staff. Registration is required at least one month prior to the weekend chosen by the couple.
· Foundations course is a one day marriage preparation experience which is presented by trained married couples and a priest or deacon. The mandatory life skills portion is one full day. The cost is $100.00 and fees are non-refundable. Payment of the fee is required with registration form.. Registration should be received as soon as possible as classes fill up quickly.
· Second Union Option is presented on certain Mandatory Life Skills dates. It is specifically designed to give couples entering a second marriage the opportunity to address their needs which are unique, because one or both were previously married, and that former relationship ended with death or divorce.
· On-Line Marriage Preparation is a program that is only approved for those couples who have a serious reason why they cannot attend one of the face-to-face programs.
Natural Family Planning Class Series
· These classes are designed to completely familiarize the engaged couple with the principles and practices of Natural Family Planning.
· This three part class series extends over three months and is taught by certified Natural Family Planning teachers.
· Couples are encouraged to begin this class as early as possible in the marriage preparation.
· A fee is charged for participation in this program.
Couples of Different Religious Backgrounds
· The priest assisting a couple preparing for marriage has the faculty to grant permission for a Catholic who is preparing for marriage to a baptized non-Catholic (Protestant). However, dispensation is required for marriages to non-baptized individuals. The priest or deacon assisting couples in preparation will obtain this dispensation for the couple through the Diocese of Lafayette.
· The non-Catholic party is to be informed at an appropriate time about the promises which the Catholic party is to make, which includes that the Catholic party promises to live the Faith and to encourage baptism and education of the children according to the Roman Catholic traditions.
· Marriages involving only one Catholic party are celebrated outside of Mass which includes Service of the Word with the Exchange of Consent.
Couples Living Together Before Sacramental Marriage
· St. Mary Magdalen Parish does not offer the option of a wedding Mass to the engaged couple if they are living together.
· Cohabitating couples are offered the Rite of Marriage Outside of Mass, which consists of the celebration of the Word of God and the Exchange of Vows.
Ceremony
· Must take place in church.
· May take place on Friday evenings at 6:30 p.m. or 7:00 p.m. or on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. or on Saturday evenings at 6:30 or 7:00 p.m.
· For Saturday afternoon weddings, all activity must cease by 2:25 p.m. to allow for preparation for regularly scheduled Saturday Confessions.
· Weddings scheduled on Saturday evenings do not have the option of having the ceremony with a Mass. No decorations for the ceremony may be brought into church before 5:30 p.m. on the day of the wedding. However, it may be possible to bring flowers for the sanctuary before 2:30 p.m.
· No weddings may take place on Sundays or during the Easter Triduum.
· Weddings are discouraged during Lent due to the penitential nature of the season and during Advent due to the preparatory nature of the season. If a wedding is celebrated during Advent or Lent, simplicity in the ceremony and decorations should be observed.
· Couple will choose Scripture readings from the approved list in consultation with the officiant. If a wedding is celebrated on certain solemnities, the readings of the day must be used.
· Sacred music will be chosen in conjunction with the parish music director.
· Any couple may choose for the Rite of Marriage to be celebrated by either a priest or deacon.
· St. Mary Magdalen does permit the use of the Unity Candle.
· The bride and groom and members of the wedding party must refrain from the consumption of alcohol or drugs prior to the wedding ceremony.
· St. Mary Magdalen Parish reserves the right to prohibit participation of anyone who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
· Drug or alcohol consumption by the bride or groom creates a serious question of their ability to give full consent to the wedding vows under such influence.
· If the bride or groom or members of the wedding party arrive under the influence of drugs or alcohol the wedding will be postponed to another date.
Visiting Priests or Deacons
Marriages may be celebrated by visiting priests or deacons if the following requirements are met by the visiting cleric:
· Receives delegation from the Pastor of St. Mary Magdalen as soon as possible.
· Abides by parish policies found in this booklet.
· Secures and fills out all the necessary paperwork for wedding preparation.
· Provides proper pre-marriage instruction for the couple.
· Ensures that the necessary paperwork is delivered to the parish office at least two weeks prior to the date of the wedding.
· Priests are invited to conduct the wedding rehearsal in conjunction with the St. Mary Magdalen wedding coordinator.
· If the priest or deacon is not assigned to ministry within this Diocese, he must present to the pastor right after the wedding is scheduled, the Testimonial of Suitability for Priestly Ministry form utilized by that Diocese.
· If the priest or deacon is not from the State of Louisiana, must contact the Clerk of Court’s office to register for the marriage in this state.
Documents Required:
Updated Baptism Certificates
· Updated Baptismal certificates for bride & groom that are obtained from the church of baptism with notations of other sacraments with the church seal are required for the initial meeting. Please call your church of Baptism before first meeting.
Letter of Permission
· If neither the bride nor groom are registered parishioners or live within the geographic boundaries of St. Mary Magdalen Parish, then a letter of permission from the proper pastor of the bride and groom is needed before the process of marriage preparation at St. Mary Magdalen can begin.
The Wedding Liturgy Worksheet and Marriage License
· Complete the copy of the Wedding Liturgy Worksheet and apply for marriage license before the actual date of your wedding. Once both are completed please bring to Renella Livers at the parish office at least two weeks before the wedding.
Witnesses Required
Two witnesses who are at least 18 years of age (best man and maid of honor) are required.
Fees and Donations
Effective April 7, 2016, there is now a wedding church usage fee associated with all weddings.
All registered, active parishioners $500
*children of registered/active parents included
Non-parishioners $1,000
____________________________________________________
The wedding coordinator fee ($75). A separate check will be required of the bride/groom for this.
The wedding church fee will be collected anytime before date. Should the wedding be cancelled for any reason, a full refund will be issued.
Organist Fee is normally $250 and is paid directly to the organist.
It is customary to offer a Clergy donation at the time of the wedding. This is at the discretion of the bride/groom and their families.
CIVIL REQUIREMENTS
The State of Louisiana requires that a marriage license be obtained from the Clerk of Court’s office at the parish courthouse. The fee for the license is set by the Clerk’s office.
Age
· In the State of Louisiana marriage is a civil contract. To be able to enter into a contract an individual must have reached the age of majority, which is 18 years of age.
· If either party to the marriage is 16 or 17 years of age, parental consent is required in order to obtain a license.
· If either party is under the age of 16, a court order is required to obtain a license.
Documents Needed
· Certified copy of birth certificate for each party or a waiver signed by a judge (district or city) or justice of the peace and Social Security numbers for each party are needed.
· It is required that both parties apply for the license;
· If either party was previously married, proof of how the marriage ended, i.e., divorce judgment or death certificate is required.
Waiting Period
· A 72 hour waiting period between the issuance of the license and the actual celebration of the ceremony must be observed.
· If the license is issued in less time than the 72 hour waiting period, then a waiver must be obtained by the couple.
· The marriage license is void after 30 days from the date of issuance and no authorized person shall perform a marriage between parties whose license has expired.
· It is recommended that you apply for and receive your license two weeks before the actual date of your wedding.
Witnesses/Signatures
· Two witnesses who must be at least 18 years of age are required.
· The license is signed by the bride and groom and witnesses at the rehearsal.
· License is signed by the officiant (priest or deacon) on the day of the wedding.
· The original license is sent to the Clerk of Court by the parish office to be recorded.
ST. MARY MAGDALEN PARISH
REQUIREMENTS
The following information regarding the wedding ceremony and the celebration of the Sacrament of Marriage is intended to be helpful in planning your special day.
Sacrament of Penance
· All Catholics are urged to make a good confession as close to the wedding day as possible as preparation for marriage.
· Regular confession schedules are published in the bulletin and are on the parish website or individual confessions may be heard by appointment with the resident priests.
Liturgy of the Word
· The couple chooses scripture readings from the approved list in consultation with the officiant. If the wedding takes place on certain solemnities, the readings of the day must be used.
· The couple chooses lectors to read sacred Scripture. Lectors are encouraged to be individuals who are lectors in a Catholic Church parish and trained in the proclamation of the Word of God. Liturgical guidelines require that only Catholic may be permitted to proclaim the Word of God when celebrating rites of the church.
· Lectors should be dressed appropriately for the occasion; men in suit/tie and women modestly dressed.
· Gospel is always read by the deacon or priest.
· First Reading Choices from the Old Testament
1 Genesis 1:26-28,31a ……………….Creation of Man & Woman
2 Genesis 2:18-24 ……………………Two in One Flesh
3 Sirach 26:1-4, 13-16 ……………….A Really Good Wife
4 Genesis 24:48-51, 58-67 …………...Isaac Loved Rebekkah
5 Tobit 7:6-14 …………….………….God Joins You Together
6 Jeremiah 31:31-32a, 33-34a ……….Make a New Covenant
7 Tobit 8:4b-8 ………………………God Bring us to Old Age Together
8 Song of Songs 2:8-10, 14, 16a, 8:6-7a...Love is as Strong as Death
9. Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31 …..Worthy Wife
· Responsorial Psalm; please refer to the separate music pages if you would like the psalm to be sung.
Psalm 33:12, 18, 20-21, 22
Psalm 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9
Psalm 103: 1-2, 8, 13, 17-18a
Psalm 112: 1bc-2, 3-4, 5-7a, 7b-8, 9
Psalm 128: 1-2, 3, 4-5
Psalm 145:8-9, 10, 15, 17-18
Psalm 148: 1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11-13a, 13c-14a
· Second Reading - Choices from New Testament
1 Romans 8:31b-35, 37-39 ……….Who Will Separate us from Christ’s Love
2 Romans 12:1-2, 9-18 OR 12:1-2, 9-13.……....Offer Your Bodies to God
3 I Corinthians 6:13c-15a, 17-20 ……..…..Body is a Temple of the Spirit
4 I Corinthians 12:31-13:8a ……….........Love is Patient
5 Ephesians 5:2a, 21-33 OR 5:2, 25-32 ….Mystery of Marriage
6 Colossians 3:12-17 ……………….…….Live in Love and Thanksgiving
7 I Peter 3:1-9 ……………………………Be of One Mind, Compassionate
8 I John 3:18-24 ……………………..….Love in Deed and Truth
9 I John 4:7-12 …………………………..God is Love and Lives in Us
10 Revelation 19:1, 5-9 …………………. A Wedding Feast
11 Romans15:1b-3a, 5-7, 13…………….. Welcome One Another
12 Philippians 4:4-9………………………God of Peace Be With You
13 Hebrews 13:1-4a, 5-6a ……………….Marriage Held in Honor by All
· Gospel
1 Matthew 5:1-12a ……………………The Beatitudes
2 Matthew 5: 13-16 ………………….You are the Light of the World
3 Matthew 7:21, 24-29 OR 21:24-25 …The House Built on a Rock
4 Matthew 19:3-6 ……………………What God United, Man Not Divide
5 Matthew 22:35-40 ………………………Love, the Greatest Commandment
6 Mark 10:6-9 …………………………….Two Become One Body
7 John 2:1-11 ……………………………..Wedding at Cana
8 John 15:9-12 ……………………………Keep My Commandments
9 John 15:12-16 …………………………..Love One Another as I Loved You
10 John 17:20-26 OR 17:20-23 … …….May be Completely One
Wedding Ceremony Coordinator
· St. Mary Magdalen has 4 (four) designated wedding ceremony coordinator for the parish who assists couples at the rehearsal and on the wedding day.
· The responsibilities of any outside professional wedding consultant cease at the door of church and are picked up again at the reception.
· Wedding Ceremony Coordinator handles the rehearsal (or assists if the priest or deacon attends rehearsal).
· Sets up for the wedding.
· Assists with the procession at the beginning of the ceremony in collaboration with the musicians. It is recommended that friends or relatives not help with the procession except the adult assigned to assist with the children who are in the procession.
· Locks the church after the rehearsal and wedding ceremony.
· All questions concerning the wedding rehearsal and wedding ceremony must be directed to Renella Livers
· The fee is $75 for the wedding ceremony which is included in the Church fee.
Wedding Rehearsal
· Usually takes place within the week of the wedding.
· Rehearsals begin at 6:30 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. and all participants are encouraged to be on time and ready to begin.
· Members of the wedding party should act with dignity and dress appropriately.
· The rehearsal will last approximately 45 minutes and does not include music practice.
· Members of the wedding party, including those reading at the ceremony should attend.
Flowers and Other Decor
Flowers form an important part of Church décor and celebration. They also draw attention to the liturgical season.
· For a wedding scheduled on Saturday evening, no pew or other décor may be brought into church before 5:30 p.m. However, if there are no other events, flowers for the sanctuary may be brought in before 2:30 p.m. No florist may work in the church between 2:30 and 5:30 p.m. on a Saturday due to confessions and Mass.
· Furniture may not be removed or rearranged at any time by those decorating for the wedding.
· Florists ordinarily handle flowers for the sanctuary, bouquets, boutonniere and corsages, and any extra candela brae.
· Unity candles is allowed.
· Fresh flower arrangements may be placed on pedestals in the sanctuary. If the flower arrangements will be left in church after the wedding, please notify Renella Livers at the parish office before the wedding. During the seasons of Lent and Advent, any flowers or greenery must be removed following the ceremony.
· If the flowers are removed after the ceremony, the couple is responsible for the removal and for the cleanup.
· Flowers may be brought by the bride and groom to the Blessed Mother Altar at the end of the ceremony.
· If pew decorations are used, they are to be attached to the pew with rubber bands, ribbons, pipe cleaners, or elastic. (no tape, wire, plastic hooks, or tacks.)
· Aisle runners are not allowed.
· Use of rice, flowers petals or bubbles inside or outside the church are not allowed.
· Because of the special nature of the Christmas season (from the week of Christmas until the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord in early January) and the Easter season (from Easter until Pentecost), St. Mary Magdalen Parish is solely responsible for decorating the church and no other decorators can add decorations at that time without specific consultation with a member of the St. Mary Magdalen Parish staff. Small additions to the already existing Christmas and Easter decorations, such as pew bows and candelabra in the center aisle may be permitted but permission must be obtained.
· If candelabrae are used, chase candle tubes or globes must be used; open, uncovered candles are not allowed.
· Any request for the use of candelabra in the center aisle must be approved through the parish office.
Photography/Videography
· The photographer/videographer is the recorder of the wedding, not part of the ceremony.
· Movement by the photographer/videographer should not distract from the ceremony.
· The photographer/videographer should not walk into the middle of the sanctuary or stand in the area behind the altar.
· The photographer/videographer should dress in a way appropriate to the occasion with reverence befitting the house of God.
· No extra lights are to be brought into the church.
· If extension cords are needed, the photographer and/or videographer are expected to provide them.
· All camera equipment, film packing, etc. are to be removed as soon as the ceremony is over.
· If there are any questions or confusions about this policy, the photographer/videographer should schedule a meeting with the parish staff.
· Should pictures be desired as a group before or after the ceremony, we ask out of respect for the Blessed Sacrament that NO pictures be taken in front of the Blessed Sacrament Altar (High Altar).
· During the reciting of vows and exchange of rings, we ask that no more than four or five pictures be taken in the sanctuary area.
· If pictures are to be taken before or after the ceremony, other scheduled liturgical events must be considered and cannot be interfered with.
· For a Saturday evening wedding, the arrival of the bridal party and the delivery of decorations may not be scheduled until 5:30 p.m. or later.
· The couple should make arrangements with the parish office if pictures will be taken before the ceremony.
· Any pictures taken after a Saturday afternoon wedding must be completed by 2:25 p.m.
· Any photographs taken in church must reflect a respect for the worship space and the presence of the Blessed Sacrament.
· Please note that funerals often need to be scheduled on the same day as weddings and advance notice is not possible.
· Furniture may not be removed or rearranged by the photographer/videographer.
Music for Your Wedding
Below is a basic summary of the steps involved in planning music for your wedding.
1. Read through the information provided.
2. Contact the parish organist, Tommy Guidry, before making any plans at all involving music or musicians. You should confirm Mr. Guidry at least five months before your wedding. Confirming means contacting him regarding availability and securing the date with payment in full or a $75 down payment. Should you choose to send $75, the balance will be due 90 days before the wedding.
3. If you wish to have guest musicians (vocalists, trumpeters, timpanists, violinists, etc.), Mr. Guidry will assist you in the booking process.
4. Select your instrumental music using the music planning document and the St. Mary Magdalen wedding recordings DropBox file. Contact Mr. Guidry for the link.
5. If you have a vocalist, consult with that person to select songs from the pre-approved list provided. (Sepep
6. Complete your music selections and email them to Mr. Guidry. He will provide you with an electronic document.
The Parish Music Director
· Mr. Tommy Guidry is the Director of Music and parish organist.
· Mr. Guidry is at your service to guide you throughout the entire process of planning beautiful and prayerful music for your wedding.
· He is responsible for ensuring the sacredness and integrity of all music utilized at all wedding liturgies.
· Mr. Guidry may be contacted at (337) 277-3775 or e-mail ORGELMEISTER67@aol.com. Please include your name, telephone number and wedding date with all correspondences including voice mail.
Outside Musicians
· Mr. Guidry will assist you in finding quality instrumentalists and vocalists for your ceremony.
· Please do not engage any other musicians to play or sing at your wedding before consulting with the music director.
· Mr. Guidry will book all musicians on your behalf.
Services Provided by the Music Director for your Wedding
· Help you select the music. Recording in a DropBox file are available to assist with music selections.
· Engage other musicians (vocalists, trumpeters, etc.) for you.
· Contact all musicians in writing to inform them of your selections.
· Reconfirm the booking with all musicians.
· Coordinate with the wedding consultant and officiate to ensure a smooth flow at the ceremony.
· Play the organ at your wedding.
Music Selections
A wedding is a worship service – worship and praise of God who calls two people together in the sacramental union of marriage.
· The music must be chosen with great care. The words, images, and music should enable those present to join with the bride and groom in praising God and asking His blessing on the union.
· Vocal music at weddings must be based on sacred texts.
· Just as secular music is inappropriate for a Sunday Mass, it is not permitted at weddings.
· There is a wealth of fine sacred music available, and our parish organist will be happy to help you in making those selections.
· The church trusts the music director’s judgment and authorizes him to decide as to what music is and is not appropriate for wedding liturgies.
Fee
Mr. Guidry’s base fee of $250.00 is mandatory and must be paid if there is music at the ceremony. Additional fees will apply to organize a more elaborate musical ensemble for your wedding or if you select non-traditional pieces that would require an inordinate amount of preparation.
The organist’s fee will vary depending on the complexity of the ensemble desired. Basically, the more guest musicians present, the more work is entailed. The following fees apply to the organist only. All other guest musicians set their own fees.
Organist’s Fees:
Organ only or organ and one guest musician -- $250
Organ and two to three guest musicians -- $275
Organ and four to five guest musicians -- $300
Organ and six to seven guest musicians -- $325
Organ and eight to nine guest musicians -- $350
Organ and ten or more guest musicians -- $375
Please make your check payable to Tommy Guidry and send it to the following address:
Mr. Tommy Guidry
601 Carriage Light Loop
Youngsville, LA 70592
The organist’s deposit of $75 (or payment in full) is due 5 months prior the wedding. The balance is due 90 days before the wedding.
Please remember to indicate the date and time of the wedding in the memo blank of each check.
Organist’s Refund Policy for Wedding Cancellation
120 or more days prior to scheduled wedding date =100% refund
90 - 119 days prior to scheduled wedding date = 50% refund
0 – 89 days prior to scheduled wedding date = no refund*
*Exceptions are made if there are extenuating circumstances beyond the control of the couple.
Selections
You will receive a list of pre-approved vocal selections for weddings. We currently do not have a recording available of all of these songs. If you have a singer for your wedding, please consult with that person and choose vocal selections from the list provided.
It is possible to use songs which are not listed. If you would like a song that is not listed, e-mail Mr. Guidry with the following information:
Wedding Date ___________________________
Your Name ___________________________
Title of Song ___________________________
Composer ___________________________
Biblical Reference* (lyrics) ___________________________
*This is normally found on the upper left-hand corner of the first page of music.
Once you have submitted your request, the director of music will either:
a. Approve it
b. Disapprove it
c. Request a copy of the music for further examination
All vocal music must be Bible-based, sacred music. Pop music, show tunes, sacro-pop, etc. have no place in a Catholic wedding. The rule of thumb is as follows: if the song would not be appropriate for Sunday morning Mass, it is not appropriate at weddings.
We trust that the extensive list of beautiful, sacred songs will assist you and your vocalist in making selections that will create a prayerful and joyous atmosphere.
Instrumental Selections
You may hear excerpts from these selections in a DropBox file that Mr. Guidry will provide for you.
Please choose from the following selections:
Preludes
Handel: Air from the Water Music Bohm: Calm as the Night
Bach: Sheep May Safely Graze Bach: Bist Du Bei Mir
Bach: Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring Handel: Where’er You Walk
Bach: Air for the G String Vangelis: Hymne
Bach/Gounod: Ave Maria Bach: Arioso
Pachelbel: Canon in D Beethoven: Ode to Joy
Handel: Largo from Xerxes 18th Variation (Rhapsody on a Theme
of Paganini)…Rachmaninoff
Mascagni: Intermezzo Handel: Lascia ch’io pianga
Massenet: Méditation de Thaïs Bach: Sleepers Wake, A Voice is
Calling
Grandmothers’/ Mothers’ Procession
Bach/Gounod: Ave Maria Vangelis: Hymne
Handel: Air from the Water Music Bach: Arioso
Bach: Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring Handel: Largo from Xerxes
Bach: Bist Du Bei Mir Handel: Lascia ch’ia pianga
Massenet: Méditation de Thaïs
Attendants’ Procession
Handel: Air from the Water Music Bach: Arioso
Bach: Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring Bach: Air for the G String
Vangelis: Hymne Pachelbel: Canon in D
Handel: Largo from Xerxes Mascagni: Intermezzo
Handel: Lascia ch’ia pianga
Bridal Procession
Clark: Prince of Denmark’s March (Trumpet Voluntary)
Charpentier: Te Deum
Purcell: Trumpet Tune in D Major
Mouret: Rondeau
Campra: Rigaudon
Offertory
Bach: Bist Du Bei Mir Bach: Air for the G String
Handel: Where’er You Walk Bach: Arioso
Mascagni: Intermezzo Lascia ch’ia pianga…Handel
Communion
Handel: Air from the Water Music Bohm: Calm as the Night
Bach: Sheep May Safely Graze Bach: Bist Du Bei Mir
Bach: Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring Handel: Where’er You Walk
Bach: Air for the G String Vangelis: Hymne
Bach/Gounod: Ave Maria Bach: Arioso
Pachelbel: Canon in D Handel: Largo from Xerxes
Handel: Lascia ch’ia pianga Massenet: Méditation de Thaïs
Recessional
Purcell: Trumpet Tune in D Major Handel: Allegro Maestoso (Hornpipe)
Campra: Rigaudon Handel: La Réjoissance
Charpentier: Te Deum Marcello: Psalm XIX
Mouret: Rondeau
Frequently asked questions:
1. May I hire any musician I wish to play an instrument (other
than organ) or sing for the wedding?
Under most circumstances, yes. However, you must consult with the director of music before engaging any musicians. He will guide you as to which musicians have done good work time after time. He also is aware of musicians who tend to show up unprepared.
2. Will there be a music rehearsal?
If you hire musicians who are not recommended by the parish organist, it is likely that they will require a rehearsal. Mr. Guidry's rehearsal fee is $50 for a one-hour rehearsal. This fee must be paid before the music rehearsal date. The music rehearsal is not at the same time as the wedding rehearsal. Please keep in mind that the musicians Mr. Guidry will recommend are experienced and will not require a rehearsal.
3. Will we meet with Mr. Guidry?
Our wedding documents and the DropBox recordings are provided to you in lieu of a meeting. Mr. Guidry is available to answer all of your questions and discuss the various options by telephone (337-277-3775) and e-mail (ORGELMEISTER67@aol.com).
4. What if I want a different organist to play for my wedding?
Mr. Guidry has a legally binding contract with St. Mary Magdalen Parish granting him the privilege of coordinating music and playing for all parish weddings. If you prefer another organist, this is possible under the following conditions: 1. Mr. Guidry must approve the organist. 2. Mr. Guidry must approve all music selections. 3. Mr. Guidry's fees must be paid to him in full.
5. Why are there all of these policies and procedures?
St. Mary Magdalen Parish wishes to insure the integrity of all liturgies held in the church. The sacrament of matrimony is no exception. You will find that following our procedures will lead to a joyous, prayerful, and smooth-flowing wedding ceremony.
Ideas for musical ensembles for your wedding
Please note that all prices will vary.
Current rates for musicians are as follows:
Organ $250 base fee Trumpet $250
Timpani $250 Violin - $225 - $250
Vocalist $125 - $200 Vocal quartet -- $600 - $800
Vocal octet (choir) - $800 - $1600
FORMS TO BE RETURNED
Copies of the forms on the following pages are given to the couple at the same time the handbook is given. The forms are in the handbook so that the couple can retain a copy of what information is provided to us.
Your Music Selections these are due to Mr. Guidry by email no later than 30 days before the wedding.
Baptism Certificates for Bride & Groom Baptism certificates with notations obtained from the church of baptism must be provided at the initial meeting with the celebrant.
The Wedding Liturgy Worksheet should be returned to the parish office two weeks before the wedding. It is used by the wedding coordinator for the rehearsal.
The Wedding License Obtained from the Clerk of Court and brought to the parish office at least two weeks before the wedding.
Contact information for the St. Mary Magdalen Organist
Version 2.2 (11.01.19)
To: Renella or officiant assisting in wedding planning - Please have every couple fill out and sign this document at their first meeting. Please put the completed document in my box afterwards. Thank you! T.G.
To: Couples to be wed at St. Mary Magdalen - Please fill and sign this document and leave it with the church official. You may request a copy for your records.
It is the responsibility of the bride or groom to contact Mr. Guidry, the St. Mary Magdalen organist. First contact is to be made at least five months prior to the wedding. Music planning, booking of any guest musicians (if desired), and paying any final musicians’ fees are to be completed at least 90 days before the wedding. After reading the handbook, e-mail is the best way to begin the process.
Today’s date:_____________________
Wedding date: ____________________
Wedding time:_________
Name of officiant: _____________________________________
Bride’s Name: _______________________________________
Best phone number to contact the bride: __________________
Bride’s e-mail: _________________________________________
Groom’s Name: _________________________________
Best phone number to contact the groom:_ __________________
Groom’s e-mail: ___________________________________
To avoid confusion, we ask that one person be in contact with the organist. Will the organist be working with the bride or the groom? _______________________
Please read carefully and sign the following: I have received the St, Mary Magdalen wedding handbook and agree to abide by all wedding music policies. These include but are not limited to the following: I understand that Mr. Guidry has first right of refusal for all weddings at St. Mary Magdalen where any form of music is desired. (ONLY EXCEPTION – Weddings in Vietnamese) I understand that I am required to pay Mr. Guidry his full base fee of $250 if I would like music at my wedding. Booking any guest musicians without consultation with Mr. Guidry is not allowed. If I do not want Mr. Guidry to play the organ for any reason, and I do want music at my wedding, his fee is still due in full no later than 90 days prior to the wedding.
Signature of the bride:__________________________________________
Signature of the groom:_____________________________________________
Wedding Liturgy Worksheet
Bride_______________Contact numbers for day of wedding_____________________
Groom______________________________Contact numbers for day of wedding_______
Wedding Date____________________ Wedding Time___________________
Rehearsal Date___________________ Rehearsal Time___________________
Priest or Deacon____________________________________ Mass? Yes ___NO___
# of expected guests_______
Arrival time for day of wedding-Bride/Bridal Party_____________________
Groom/Groomsmen_________________________
Mother of Groom _______________Escorted _______________
Mother of Bride _________________Escorted by___________
Wedding Party-List in order that they will be walking down the aisle- MOH/Best Man should be listed last
Flower Girl/Ring Bearer
Ushers-are there to seat people, make them feel welcome and also help open front doors for bride to process in.
Liturgy of the Word
Lectors will proclaim the readings. You will need one of two who already
serve as lectors in a Catholic Church Parish.
Offertory Gift Bearers- If there is a Mass, the couple may choose two people to
bring the Offertory gifts to the altar.
Extra-Ordinary Ministers of Communion-If there is a Mass, the couple may choose
Eucharist Ministers but they must be commissioned by a church parish.
Concluding Rites
Flowers at Blessed Mother Altar _____ Yes _____ No
Flowers to Mothers _____ Yes _____ No
Witnesses- Those signing you marriage license (must be 18 yrs or older)
Unity Candle _____Yes ______NO Couple provides
Name of Florist_________________ What time will florist arrive_____
Where will flowers be placed_________________________________
Name of photographer_______________________________
Name of videographer_______________________________
Have photographer and videographer been made aware of Church policies?
Yes_______
Complete this form and return it and your marriage license to Renella Livers at St Mary Magdalen Parish office two weeks before the wedding. At the time of this meeting, your file will be checked to make sure everything is in order. We will also let you know who the coordinator for your wedding will be.

Name	Walking With	Seated with Whom

Grandmother/Groom	Notes-where will they be seated	Escorted by

Grandmother/Bride	Notes-where will they be seated	Escorted by

Groomsmen	Bridesmaid	Notes

Names

Readings	Chapter & Verse	Name of Reader
First Reading
Responsorial Psalm
Second Reading
Gospel		Gospel always read by Priest or Deacon

Name	Gifts
	Wine
	Hosts

Names

Revised 7-30-2022 #