Today I had the blessing of assisting a beautiful Catholic wedding Mass at St. Vincent Ferrer Church on the Upper East Side of New York City. This post is a glimpse into the meaningful volunteer work I do to support couples in preparing for their sacred day—not as a paid planner for this couple, but as someone who loves serving my parish and the wider Catholic community.

The bride was absolutely radiant—her inner kindness shining through her gentle smile. The groom was joyful and peaceful, clearly thrilled to be marrying his best friend and soulmate.

Together, their deep friendship and shared devotion to Christ filled the church with a sacred peace and joy.

In my volunteer role, I help coordinate the many details that make a Catholic wedding Mass flow smoothly—working closely with the priest, musicians, and wedding party, and especially ensuring that all the elements honoring the Mass and the couple’s faith come together beautifully.

Why I Volunteer as a Wedding Assistant

Volunteering in this capacity allows me to serve the Church and couples in a very special way. I meet with the bride in the week before the wedding to confirm the details of the Mass—everything from the order of liturgy to who will bring the gifts and present flowers to Mary.

On the day of the wedding, I assist behind the scenes, helping everything run seamlessly so the couple and their families can fully enter into the sacredness of the Mass.

While I don’t handle all planning aspects for this couple, my role is essential in supporting the liturgical flow and creating a prayerful atmosphere.

A Church That Felt Like Home

Walking into St. Vincent Ferrer Church felt like coming home. Surrounded by familiar parishioners and a sense of shared faith, the wedding Mass was a beautiful celebration of community and sacrament.

Thanks to the punctuality and reverence of everyone involved, we were able to start the Mass early—a true blessing.

Honoring the Bride and Groom

The bride and groom’s love was a testament to Catholic marriage—a deep friendship rooted in faith and joy. Their mutual kindness and devotion to Christ shone throughout the ceremony.

The way they participated in the Mass, their reverence during prayer, and their joyful offering of themselves were a reminder of the sacred vocation marriage is meant to be.

Marian Beauty in the Details

The flowers were a beautiful tribute to Our Lady, featuring white and pale blue hues. The bridesmaids’ soft baby blue dresses complemented the Marian theme, bringing a serene, spiritual atmosphere to the celebration.

One of the most touching moments was when the couple presented flowers to Mary during the “Ave Maria” hymn—an intimate act of devotion to Our Blessed Mother.

A Gift of Floral Generosity

The bride’s donation of the floral arrangements to the church was a generous gesture that extended the beauty of the day beyond the ceremony itself, enriching the church.

The Joy of Serving as a Wedding Assistant

Volunteering in this role reminds me why I love supporting Catholic weddings—not just the planning and coordination, but the chance to serve in a ministry that helps couples enter into a sacred sacrament.

Helping the Mass run smoothly creates space for Christ to be at the center—a joy and privilege I treasure deeply.

The Joys of Wedding Ministry