REHERSAL PROBLEMS AND ANSWERS
Nancy D. Becker
April 1, 1989
Some common problems turned up in my discussions with other pastors. I list them here in no particular order except for the first-which was universal!
Children in the bridal party. Most pastors can tell a funny story about how a child stole the show or disrupted the wedding or entertained the congregation or upset the bride, such as a flower girl who freezes halfway down the aisle or buries her face in Mother's skirt or picks up during the service every flower petal she dropped during the processional.
Sometimes I remind the couple that even at the royal wedding of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, it was the antics of young Prince William that drew most photographers' attention, and they should remember that children in the wedding party are difficult to predict.
Bill Ritter tells of a little boy who "rehearsed marvelously, but then during the wedding, sat down in the center aisle, removed his shoes and socks, and proceeded to play with his toes."
Some couples would find that enchanting and a great addition to the uniqueness of their wedding day. Other couples would be upset and angry about it. I make a point of determining at the rehearsal whether or not the children should be under tight control. This requires the skill of an international diplomat, for the parents of the children generally think their little ones will-and should-be the stars of the show.
Wendy Pratt recommends that people just not worry about it. "Nothing the child can do is wrong," she tells the wedding party. But she has the attendants alert to help out with the children and asks the mother to "bribe the kids to be good."
The pastor has some power to set the tone even for the children. Most children are somewhat in awe of the situation at the rehearsal, ...
Like the preview? To read this complete article
and 18,013 more in the archive—JOIN NOW!
Easily find high-quality, well-researched materials that provide a Christian perspective on topics ranging from headlines to history.
Start using this invaluable tool TODAY for preparing your Bible studies, presentations, class lectures, sermons, meetings, and more.
|
It's easy and quick to join:
Brought to You by Christianity Today Int'l |  |
|
| 
Find similar articles
E-mail this page
