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

By Michael Bell


Faith is important to a lot of people. Even though there are statistics that say fewer people worship formally, many still attend houses of worship and adhere to religious traditions. This extends to wedding ceremonies. When two individuals decide to formalize their relationship, and are of different faiths, it is usually important to both to incorporate traditions from both faiths into the ceremony. With a little thought, and some creativity, it is possible to have a Jewish Christian interfaith wedding that is memorable and meaningful.

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.

Spoken vows aren't part of Hebrew ceremonies because they are included in the ketubah. Christians, on the other hand, would probably feel confused by the lack of vows. Many couples of mixed faiths decide to include them, and Jews are normally fine with the inclusion of vows because they are so used to attending weddings in which vows are an integral part.

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.

Circling is a tradition for Jews that will be curious, but charming, for the Christians in attendance. The bride circles the groom seven times. This symbolizes the seven days of creation, the seven wedding blessings, and that the groom is now the center of his 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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