Below is a list of the most prevalent symbols used in a Catholic wedding
THE WEDDING RINGS
Wedding rings symbolise the love and loyalty a man and a woman have for one another. Interestingly the round shape of the rings symbolises the eternal love for the couple getting married. The rings are worn on the left ring finger due to the belief that there is a being connecting that finger directly to the heart.
THE VEIL
On one level, as everyone knows and as St. Paul makes clear in 1 Corinthians, the veil is a visible sign that the woman is under the authority of a man.
These days, the idea of submission to the authority of her husband is frowned upon, to put it mildly. But it shouldn't be, once we realize that the bridal veil signifies the submission of this particular woman to the loving care of her husband. It signifies her trust, her confidence in his Christ-like leadership. It signifies that she has chosen to follow him as a loving partner and companion. It also signifies that he has been specifically consecrated to handle that sacred vessel - to safely touch that ark - and that's something mysterious and beautiful
Veils by Lily, 2016
THE UNITY CANDLE
At the beginning of the ceremony the two taper candles are lit by a member of each family. Concluding the vows, the bride and groom then each take a taper candle and use them to light up the unity candle at the same time.
The unity candle represents the lives of the couple being joined together as one. It is also a symbol of the light of Christ and guidance the couple will have to help them through their united lives.
At the beginning of the ceremony the two taper candles are lit by a member of each family. Concluding the vows, the bride and groom then each take a taper candle and use them to light up the unity candle at the same time.
The unity candle represents the lives of the couple being joined together as one. It is also a symbol of the light of Christ and guidance the couple will have to help them through their united lives.
THE HOLY BIBLE
The Holy Bible signifies the newly married couple dedication to God. It also signifies the role the husband has in leading his family to God.
The Holy Bible signifies the newly married couple dedication to God. It also signifies the role the husband has in leading his family to God.
THE WEDDING BOUQUET
The bouquet used for weddings is a symbol of fertility, growth and life.
The bouquet used for weddings is a symbol of fertility, growth and life.
THE WHITE WEDDING GOWN
The white wedding dress represents the bride to be’s purity and is an image of the righteousness of Christ.