What the Catholic priest told this bride when she asked for permission to wed in black
The stunning photos of a bride who wore black to her wedding went viral online, with some netizens pointing out that it’s “inappropriate” and “not allowed.”
A number of Facebook users questioned whether or not the priest knew about it beforehand, adding that she should have stuck to the traditional white gown. In an interview with PhilSTAR L!FE, the groom clarified that they were granted permission to get married at the Miraculous Medal Parish in Calumpang, Iloilo City in black outfits. Made by Ilonggo designer James Roa, the elegant gown was amped up with three kilos of beadwork.
“Our parish priest told us wala naman daw rules sa Catholic Church on what color should the bride wear during marriage ceremony as per the general instructions of the Roman Missal,” said Gerald Paul Jetonzo. “We can wear daw any color we want, as long as we live on our holy vows and hindi kami maghihiwalay.”
The priest told them in verbatim: “For as long as you and your future husband will hold on to your promises to love each other till death do you part, it doesn’t matter if you wear black, pink, blue, or red.”
It’s a superstition that wearing black to one’s wedding could mean evil or bad luck. Upon learning that they are being bashed online for their wedding theme, Jetonzo said the religious official reached out to them immediately. “Kinausap ako ng parish priest namin last night. Advise ng priest sa amin is i-ignore na lang daw yung negative comments kasi wala namang standing yung mga pamahiin sa faith namin.”
In a feature by CNN International, it was stated that “colored dresses were the norm for brides of all classes” until Queen Victoria wore a white number in 1840, when she tied the knot with Prince Albert.
Article thumbnails by Anthony Jimoga-on