Is there an possible way to have a marriage between a muslim and a catholic. My boyfriend and I love each other so much and want to spend the rest of our lives together. But I am American/catholic, and he is Bosnian so he is muslim. We wouldn’t have to get married in a church, but maybe outdoors. Couldn’t there be a catholic priest and a muslim priest at the wedding to marry us? I cant imagine my life without him, so I am determined to make this work. PLEASE HELP!
Reverend Susanna Stefanachi Macomb
(I AM on Sabbatical/vacation writing my next book on interfaith baby blessings and raising interfaith children. However, I feel could not resist answering your question. )
I give you the words of Kahlil Gibran: “Think not that you can direct the course of love, for love, if it should find you worthy, directs your course. ”
In my humble opinion, with two traditions, you are twice blessed. Approached with an open heart, you will learn from one another. You can become richer inside.
I have successfully officiated at many many Muslim/Christian unions.
Sadly, you will be unable to have a wedding co-officiated by a priest and an imam. They are forbidden to do so. You can have an interfaith minister, a liberal Unitarian Universalist minister, a liberal Sufi imam or a judge perform your ceremony. You can have a ceremony co-officiated by a Unitarian Minister or Intefaith Minister and a male member of his family who is well versed in Islam.
My book will guide you every step of the way. Your options are outlines. It is fully scripted and their are sample ceremonies. I offer tender counsel for dealing with family. Simply circle what pierces your heart and bring it to your chosen officiant. Read Christianity, Islam and Sufism (whose interfaith message is over 1200 years old). Look up your cultures as well. Also, read universal passages for any wedding and honoring/including family.
You will also read about other couples like yourselves.
Sensitivity and respect are key in an interfaith ceremony. Done properly, it can be an enlightening, unifying experience for all.
A force much greater than yourself has brought you together. Let that be your beacon light. When things get difficult or murky, pray. You will be guided.
Peace be with you. Ma’Salaama.
Rev. Susanna