Catholic Wedding Q&A

Can we use popular, non-religious music in our wedding?

Using popular music in a Catholic wedding — the latest love song to hit the charts, say, or a classic Frank Sinatra ballad — is almost always strongly discouraged; in fact, most parishes will simply not allow it.

Understandably, some couples react with disappointment when the parish priest or music minister turns down their request to have a soloist sing their favorite song. Remember, though, that a Catholic wedding (even one outside of Mass) is a liturgy. The whole thing, from beginning to end, is a prayer. That's why the Church says that all music used in its liturgy should be easily identifiable as prayer.

If you're not sure whether a particular song or piece of music passes the "prayer" test, check with your pastor or music minister.

For more information

A list of some Catholic wedding music

Choosing wedding music
Three principles for choosing good liturgical music; how to find and choose musicians; and how to find Catholic wedding songs and music.

Can we use recorded music in our wedding?