SAINT JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH
440 SAINT JOSEPH STREET
LANCASTER, PA 17603
(717) 397-6921

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What can we say about our ceremony that we haven't heard already from countless guests? From how stunning the church was, to how unique the service was, to how fantastic Monsignor Smith was, it seems that this may have been the first Catholic Wedding that many of our guests, didn't fall asleep during! Yes, we are well aware of the stereotype about Catholic Weddings, but this was no ordinary Catholic Wedding, it was ours.

To start with, the groomsmen didn't wear matching tuxedos... instead, they all wore black suits, with identical shirts and ties that matched the color of the bridesmaid's gowns (the groom's tie was the same pattern as the groomsmen, but in black and silver). Then, the bridesmaids' gowns were identical colors, but the styles were their own choices. So, from the start, it was obvious that this was going to be something different.

Of course, the bride looked beautiful as her father walked her down the aisle, and the music was powerful on the Barckhoff Organ. Then, there were the readings, all chosen by the Bride and Groom:

First Reading:
Sirach 26: 1-4, 13-16

Second Reading:
Hebrews 13: 1-4a, 5-6b

Gospel:
Matthew 22: 35-40

More than one person commented on how inspired they were by these selections. Even Monsignor Smith commented on how he could see the theme we were going for with our choices, and how impressed he was by them. That must be why during his Homily, he took the time to explain each reading and how they applied to us. This truly personal touch by Monsignor, was not lost on anyone, particularly the Bride and Groom, who were touched by his sincerity and eloquence.

Then, the thing that impressed everyone the most... as the vows were exchanged, we actually FACED the congregation! Yes, unlike most every wedding where all you see is the back of the couple's heads, during our service, we faced our guests, from an elevated point at the altar. To fully understand how dynamic this was, you'll have to see the pictures of the ceremony.

Finally, the wedding party was dismissed. At that time, the bride and groom circled back around the pews, to personally dismiss every guest... putting the final, personal touch, and a wedding that we were proud to call, our own.

Monsignor Thomas Smith has been servant of the Catholic Church for over 47 years, and has been with Saint Joe's since November of 1992. It is amazing that when his name comes up in conversation, how people instantly sing his praises. On the day of our wedding, Monsignor was an amazing 74 years old! His energy and enthusiasm are both humbling and inspiring. We are very lucky to have him at our church and we were fortunate to be married by him.

Saint Joseph's Catholic Church, founded in 1849 and constructed in 1885, is located at 440 Saint Joseph Street in downtown Lancaster, PA. It is conveniently located only blocks from the hotel that some of our guests stayed at, and from the Mulberry Art Studio, where the reception was held. For more details, please click on any one of the church's pictures on this page, and you will be re-directed to a site with even more information. And, of course, you can always ask us!