Jo & Phil's bohemian-chic style wedding took place in her hometown of Fresno, sprawled into the expanse of California's Central Valley under big skies & a blazing summer sun. The nuptial mass took place at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, followed by a gorgeous backyard reception at the bride's grandmother's home.
One of the most unique parts of their wedding day was that the nuptial Mass took place in the church's narthex - the entryway - due to COVID restrictions inside the church. While it was unusual to have the guests outside on the patio and the ceremony in the entryway, the rich symbolism of a marriage in the narthex soon became apparent.
As the homily pointed out, the narthex serves architecturally as a bridge between the world and the sanctuary. Historically, much would take place in the narthex - baptisms, penance, & sacraments that symbolize sacramental entrance into the Church as Christ's mystical body. The nuptial mass, while traditionally taking place in the sanctuary, seemed to take on an equally rich & beautiful meaning when held in the narthex.
As the priest said, "many early saints compared Christian marriage to the baptism of a couple, and just like God through baptism comes to dwell within us as his temple, so through holy matrimony he will come to dwell within your relationship in a one-flesh domestic Church".
What words of power & grace to be spoken over a marriage!
Photographer: Julia Monaco & Sam Grinis
Church: Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Fresno, CA
Reception venue: the bride's grandmother's home
Dress: the bride's mother's, with alterations
Suits: The Black Tux, Frank & Buck
Furniture: Charming Treasures Event Rentals
Cake: Frosted Cakery
Invitations by Meg Prom
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