Questions: My siblings and I are planning my parents 50th wedding anniversary out of state. I would like to have some type of religious ceremony but don’t know the difference between a marriage blessing and vow renewal.
My parents are both Catholic (my father is a Deacon on sabbatical) however there were not married in the Catholic church 50 years ago. Is it still ok to have one of the above mentioned ceremonies in their case?
Remarriage Expert
Although it is very sweet of you to want to celebrate this anniversary, the vow renewal or blessing of the marriage in church must be planned by the couple. These ceremonies are very personal and both parties should be involved in the planning and both should agree that they want this service.
I would suggest hosting an anniversary party if you want a surprise. If not, suggest the ceremonies to your parents and allow them to plan the ceremony and the family can plan the party that follows.
Sorry but this reply did not address my question. Of course my parents are involved. We are simply handling the logistics since they are older now and not very internet savvy. I guess I should have mentioned as well that we are very close.
Thanks anyway.
Remarriage Expert
You can tell your parents that the vow renewal is not a religious ceremony so if they want to have a religious ceremony then the blessing would be the choice. Have them contact their local priest who can help guide them through the planning of the ceremony. They will need the priests involvement to preside over the service and to guide them through the process. A vow renewal does not require any paperwork, officiant or preparation other than panning the ceremony, writing personalized vows, etc.
I hope this post has answered your questions.
thank you- that does help.
