Hi Rose,
Just to add to what Eric said:
The bigger problem is not geographical, that is, an
outdoor wedding. You don't hold to the teachings
of the Church. Hence, you are no longer effectively a
Catholic. With all due respect,
it sounds like you are
looking for a Master of Ceremonies. This is not part
of a priest's job description or sacerdotal function.
Priests are not guns for hire that go around demeaning
sacred institutions for the whims of those that don't
hold to the teachings of Holy Mother Church.
To do so
would make a mockery of a sacrament.
Matrimony is a Sacrament
— not a ceremony. It is a covenant between three:
- God
- the
husband, and
- the bride.
When the man and the woman exchange
vows and express their unfettered intent to enter into Christian marriage, the Holy Spirit acts through Holy
Mother Church and the two become one in a Union that
no one can sever. I can appreciate the fact that you
want to honor your parents by asking a priest to perform
the ceremony, but if your parents understand their Faith,
they should understand why this is not possible. Further,
as practicing Catholics, they should object to having
a priest violate the canons of the Church.
I wish you
all the best in your marriage. I encourage you to pray
that the Holy Spirit guide you in all truth.
God Bless,
John DiMascio
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