Prologue for a Western Style Wedding in Japan
The wedding ceremony begins with a prologue; something that says why we are here and sets the theme.
Part One - Administration
(Here are some of the usual things covered, spoken in Japanese by a chapel staff member. It is a short speech of less than one minute.)
- Welcome
- Switch off your mobile phones; if taking photographs, please stay in your seats, try not to use flash, etc.
- This is a Christian ceremony: Please respect the customs, repeat 'Amen' at the end of prayers, etc.
- After the ceremony there will be a flower-shower just outside the chapel
- Other announcements as appropriate
- Remain seated as the groom and pastor enter the chapel
Part Two - Announcement
(This is usually spoken in Japanese by the wedding pastor. As with the Part One, this speech is very short, usually lasting less than one minute.)
- Welcome
- Self introduction (Often this is omitted since the pastor is not important at all; the family and friends have come to see the couple getting married, not the pastor. But some wedding chapels feel a self introduction is polite.)
- A short bible reading, message, or prayer (rarely done, but sometimes felt necessary to introduce a calmer mood)
- Announcement that this is the start of the wedding ceremony (the couple's full names are read out)
- All please stand; turn to face the entrance; Enter the bride!
