Creating A Memorable Ceremony And Common Ground With A Jewish Christian Interfaith Wedding

By Michael Bell


There are many people for whom faith is an important part of life. They adhere to their religious traditions and attend houses of worship, even as statistics show that fewer people are worshiping in a formal way. When couples of mixed faiths decide to get married, it's important for most of them to incorporate the traditions of both faiths into their special day. It may take some thought and creativity, but it's possible to plan a Jewish Christian interfaith wedding that is both meaningful and memorable.

Unity candles are a tradition that is popular for Christian weddings. Two candles are lit by the mothers of the bride and groom at the beginning of the ceremony. During the ceremony the groom and bride each take one of these candles, and together they light the third candle. There are numerous variations of the unity candle tradition that can be used. Jews don't normally incorporate candles into marriage ceremonies, but should not be offended by the use of them on this occasion.

Reciting vows aren't part of traditional Hebrew marriage ceremonies because the subject of these vows are set down in the ketubah. Christians might be confused if the spoken vows were omitted. The majority of interfaith couples include the recitation of vows, and the Jews in attendance are so used to hearing them they are not offended by this decision.

Breaking the glass is a Jewish wedding tradition not all Christians are familiar with. Many couples like the idea of adding it to their ceremonies because of what it represents. In one respect the tradition symbolizes the Jerusalem temple destruction. It also represents the sanctity and sacredness of their marriage covenant.

A ketubah included in the ceremony may puzzle the Christians at first, but it will be very important for the Jews in attendance. This ceremonial document outlines the rights and responsibilities of a groom in relation to a bride. Today the ketubah is a symbolic gesture rather than an enforceable law. That is unless the newlyweds will be residing in Israel.

The chuppah is another traditional part of Jewish ceremonies. It is one that Christians may not even realize has anything to do with Hebrews. The bridal canopy, for Jews, symbolizes the home the couple will build together. It references the tent of Abraham which had open sides to welcome guests from wherever they came. After the ceremony some couples use the chuppah as a bedspread or a wall hanging.

Another tradition the Jews will recognize, but the Christians probably won't is circling. After walking down the aisle, the bride walks around the groom seven times. This represents the seven wedding blessings, seven days of creation, and the groom becoming the center of the bride's world.

The circle can also be construed as a protective wall. It represents protection from evil spirits. The pronouncement of a bride and groom as a married couple, and the introduction of them to the guests, is a Christian tradition embraced by all faiths.




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