Can we attend the Weddings of Catholics which are not Catholic Ceremonies?

I was asked a more complex question relating to this, and I think the question above summarizes the points I wanted to make. First of all, I told the inquirer that she should ask a solid orthodox priest this question. Only he could give some advice which is certainly more authoritative than what I would say.

But briefly, contrasting how I think two orthodox priests I know would respond, I would say the following.

1)      Attending this ceremony is not advisable. At least one of them is Catholic, and they should know better. In this case, they are cohabitating before marriage, and presumably engaging in not so moral activities before marriage. So, attendance would give approval to such behaviors. Secondly, in this case, it is a non-denominational ceremony, which is also not advisable to attend, because it gives approval to their religion’s legitimacy. This too would extend to the reception. This does not mean the marriage is not valid. It may very well be.

2)      You may attend this ceremony out of respect and love for the two people. However, do not participate in any, if present, religious activities or rites.

Personally, I favor the first response. I do not believe ecumenism consists in sharing in religious ceremonies and even in prayer. I recognize the popes have done it, and even John Paul II did the utterly scandalous act of praying with pagans for peace, as if their false gods existed, let alone answered prayers for peace.

Laurence Gonzaga