FAQs
Question
What is the dress code for the wedding? Are their specific colors I should wear?
Answer
Our dress code is semi formal and we have included some reference photos above. There is no need to wear a specific color, but you are welcome to match our color scheme. Women are encouraged to wear a headcovering, see below for details.
Question
Why St. Stephen's Catholic Church?
Answer
St. Stephen's has been Jacob's home parish for the past 3 years. We have fallen in love with the richness of the liturgy and the welcoming community. We hope you also cherish the beauty and treasure of the Tridentine Rite offered at the parish.
Question
What is the Tridentine Rite?
Answer
The Tridentine Rite also known as the Traditional Latin Mass, Usus Antiquior, or the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite, is the liturgy of the Catholic Church which was in widespread use before in 1969. This older form has been in use for many centuries and it was at the heart of the Church and Western culture.
Question
What is the difference between the Tridentine Rite and the New Mass?
Answer
There are several differences in terms of how the Mass is celebrated. Below are a few noticeable differences. 1) The New Mass is typically celebrated in vernacular (i.e. English). The Traditional Latin Mass (TLM) is prayed in Latin. In our Nupital Mass, our vows and the homily will be in English. 2) The priest is facing "ad orientem," meaning that the priest and the congregation are facing the same direction. 3) In the TLM there as a greater emphasis placed on silence. The laity still pray the Mass, but in a contemplative way in which we can hear God's voice in the inner depths of our heart. Therefore, in the TLM, you will often hear the priest praying at the foot of the altar and the altar servers responding. The laity will only respond in chant alongside the choir in specific moments, otherwise we are to remain silent. 4) There are other traditions that the TLM incorporates like veiling and kneeling to receive. See the other questions below for those answers.
Question
Do I need to wear a veil?
Answer
Women "veiling" their hair is an ancient custom of the Catholic Church that has begun to return in recent years. At St. Stephen's it is the norm for most women to veil, but it is not mandatory. It is a beautiful, meaningful tradition and we would absolutely love if you would participate in it. It is a visible reminder of God's love for his bride, the Church. If you do not have a chapel veil, St. Stephen's bookstore will be open prior to the Mass and you can shop for one at your convenience. Alternatively, any nice hat, scarf, or shawl of any color can be used as a head covering.
Question
How do I receive Communion?
Answer
Communion at St. Stephen’s is received kneeling at the altar rails, and on the tongue, not in the hand. As the priest administers Holy Communion, he will say in Latin, “May the Body of our Lord Jesus Christ preserve your soul unto life everlasting. Amen.” Because the priest says “Amen,” there is no need to respond to him as you await reception of the Sacrament. Here are some helpful tips on how to receive communion on the tongue: 1) Make sure to open your mouth wide and extend your tongue past your lips 2) Close your eyes and tilt your head back 3) Make sure to close your mouth as soon as the priest’s hand is away from your mouth If you do not know how to receive on the tongue, please watch this helpful video for more details: http://tinyurl.com/receptionofthehost **To receive Communion, please remember that you must be a baptized Catholic, have received your 1st Communion Sacrament, and be in a state of grace. If you are unable to receive you may cross your arms for a blessing or stay in your pew during the distribution of the host.
Question
Where should we bring or send our gifts?
Answer
For your convenience, we have set up an online wedding registry accessible through our website. Otherwise, you can bring any gifts to the venue if you would like! Your presence is gift enough.
Question
Are plus ones and kids allowed at the reception?
Answer
Because of the limited seating, we are limiting our guests to close friends and family and unfortunately we cannot accommodate plus ones. As for kids, we are only able to invite children of those in the bridal party. We appreciate your understanding.