What is the Velatio Nuptialis?

Photos (from left to right) from Merciful Love Photography, Laudare Photography, and Sanctus Photography

Have you ever seen someone hold a cloth, sheet, or veil over the bride and groom as they receive their Nuptial Blessing? It’s a lesser known sight within the Novus Ordo Mass, but that’s mainly because people just don’t know about it! 

This tradition, called the Velatio Nuptialis, is a forgotten Latin tradition that’s making a comeback, and you can incorporate it into your wedding Mass too. Here are some helpful things to keep in mind:

What is the Velatio Nuptialis?

The velatio nuptialis, Latin for “nuptial veil”, is an ancient Church tradition dating back to at least the fourth century AD. Sometimes referred to as a “care cloth” or “wedding canopy”, the veil is held over the bride and groom during their nuptial blessing, either by prominent witnesses, clergy members, or altar servers.

The History

Sources are a bit mixed on when this tradition became established within the Catholic Church, but we know it was well-known at least within the fourth century. How do we know? St. Ambrose talked about it himself! He says,

“It is fitting that the marriage be sanctified by the imposition of the veil and the blessing of the priest.”

It’s believed that the white cloth (“pallium”) represents many things: a bright cloud symbolizing God’s protection over Israel (Exodus 13:20-22), the Holy Spirit overshadowing Mary during the Annunciation (Luke 1:35), and the bright cloud that came over Jesus during the Transfiguration (Luke 9:28-36; 2 Peter 1:17–18). It’s also believed that the veil connects back to the French “poêle”, a veil used to honor the Blessed Sacrament on the Feast of Corpus Christi. Just as the bride and groom come together in “one flesh”, so too is the wedding feast of Christ and His Church evident through the Eucharist. 

While this tradition flourished in the Middle Ages, it’s seen a significant decline outside of everywhere besides France. However, it’s making a strong comeback today, as we’re seeing more and more Nuptial Masses honoring early Church traditions. 

Is it Only Reserved for Latin Mass Weddings?

Absolutely not! Couples celebrating their marriage in both the Latin and the English Rite can incorporate this tradition into their day. It’s a beautiful testament to God’s protection over your marriage, the grace He floods every married couple with, and the joining of you and your spouse under one body and one domestic church.

I’m In! What’s Next?

Since this tradition is new to our modern 21st century weddings, make sure you talk to your priest about incorporating this ritual into your Nuptial Mass. Most parishes won’t have a problem with it, but it’s important to talk with your celebrant so he’s aware and can help the clergy, altar servers, or witnesses know when to cover you with the veil. Also, keep in mind you might need to provide your own veil, but don’t let this discourage you! Many couples have had a veil made for this and then donated it back to their parish for future couples, or kept it to save for future family members, friends, or God-willing, kids and grandkids.

“He, joining the heads of them both under a nuptial peace, veils them with his right hand, sanctifying them with prayer.”

—St. Paulinus of Nola