RITUAL
It’s what takes it to another level. All cultures, religions, ethnicities, groups, have their distinctive traditions. They also borrow from, and influence each other. Weddings are full of ritual. No matter what your background, whether you marry in a church or standing by a stream, you will exchange vows and rings, and these are rituals.
The Irish, well known for their ancient legends, growing out of the Celtic traditions of pre-Christian Europe, have great rituals to draw from. I always get excited when a couple tells me they have some Irish in them, because I know we might consider using some of interesting Celtic rituals.
Some of those rituals are being ‘handfasted’ or ‘ tying the knot,’ ringing the bells, which is similar to the Bell of St Patrick, or the Marriage Bell, there is the Loving Cup (or Qualch), jumping the oak branch, and of course wearing Kilts or exchanging Tartans… as you can see, there is a lot to choose from, and this doesn’t even include the wonderful readings, poems and blessings.I’ll write more about different rituals from various traditions soon!
Here’s a link to a nice little video from a Celtic wedding I officiated.
