Of course; you are more than welcome in the church. The ceremony is a Mass and will last approximately one hour.

You can expect that Mass will start with sitting or standing and listening to readings from the Bible. In the middle, the bride and groom will share their vows and rings with each other. Then the Mass continues with communion, or the Eucharist; this part involves more standing and kneeling and responding in prayer. There are a few ways you can follow along with the Mass. First, you can observe the people around you and follow their lead. (Truly, no one will notice if you are a second behind the crowd.) Second, you can look for “The Order of the Mass” in one of the song books in your pew to follow a written outline. As a non-Catholic, you are invited (and encouraged!) to participate in the sitting, standing, kneeling, singing, and praying portions of the Mass—as much as you are comfortable. After all, you have been invited to this wedding to be a part of the community of witnesses to pray for and celebrate the Andrew and Katelyn. Regardless of your spirituality or religious beliefs, there is a joy to be shared as the two become one, through love, in marriage.

Catholics believe that the simple bread and wine presented on the altar during a Mass become the living, real presence of Jesus--his body, blood, soul, and divinity. To receive communion is to receive the body of Christ. If you practice a different faith, do not share this belief, or have not been spiritually prepared through catechesis to receive the Eucharist, you are invited to remain present in the Mass without receiving communion. As the congregation processes to the front of the church during communion, you can choose to receive a blessing--by walking forward with your arms crossed on your chest so each hand rests on the opposite shoulder--or to remain at your seat. Either way, this is a time for reflection, solitude, and recollection.

Not far. It's about 5 miles, and a 10 minute drive. Additionally, most of the hotels we've recommended on this website are located less than a mile from the venue.

The only thing we ask is that those we invite do not wear jeans, sneakers (except for dancing), or t-shirts. However, a suit and tie or formal dress is by no means required.

Within Columbus, there is a historic antebellum house at which Andrew's parents enjoy staying, among others. Starkville, 30 minutes to the west of Columbus, is a college town and has a few fairly nice hotels.

Dinner will be served buffet style with your choice of eggplant parmesan or roasted pork loin with a bourbon brown sugar glaze. Sides will include glazed carrots and scalloped potatoes. There will also be salad and rolls served. Appetizers will be available during cocktail hour. The bar will be cash or card only.