I sure do hope the photographer from the wedding has not been photographing at this church anymore seeing how he can be so disrespectful and feel the need to completely ignore what this priest is trying to explain to you.
First of all, perhaps you do not understand that people who take communion are receiving Jesus Christ himself. Canon Law does explain the need for all those to take part in a Eucharistic Celebration to have sufficient knowledge and careful preparation so that they understand the mystery of Christ according to their capacity and are able to receive the body of Christ with faith and devotion (Can. 913 1). Canon Law also clearly states, "A person who is conscious of grave sin is not to celebrate Mass or receive the body of the Lord without previous sacramental confession," (Can. 916). With grave sins being defined as those which destroy charity in the heart of man by a grave violation of God's law; it turns man away from God, who is his ultimate end and his beatitude, by preferring an inferior good to him. Grave matter is specified by the Ten Commandments, corresponding to the answer of Jesus to the rich young man: "Do not kill, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and your mother" (CCC 1852-1864).
Now, policies, rules, and guidelines for wedding photographers and videographers vary from place to place and priest to priest, but the basic principle that should be kept in mind is that a Catholic wedding is first and foremost a liturgy--that is, the public prayer of the whole Church, not just a private ceremony for those present. People videotaping or photographing the wedding should strive to respect the sacred nature of the liturgy. This means not positioning cameras where they might interfere with or distract from the liturgy. Your parish will be able to tell you where photographers and videographers are permitted; however, generally, the area immediately around the altar (the sanctuary) is off-limits. The center aisle or other locations that might block the view of the assembly are also likely to be discouraged. Other restrictions on photographers and videographers might include wiring the bride and groom for sound, using flash photography or artificial lighting during the ceremony, moving around during key moments of the liturgy, moving furnishings or decorations.
Perhaps you and the couples should consider speaking with the priest celebrating the wedding prior to the liturgy to make arrangements.
As far as the funeral goes, yet another reference to Canon Law, "a person who is to receive the Most Holy Eucharist is to abstain for at least one hour before holy communion from any food and drink, except for only water and medicine," (Can. 919 1).
Regardless of whether it was a funeral or a wedding, if one does not feel these "rules" are right, they should consider educating themselves perhaps through a parish bible study or RCIA program. Otherwise, continue to live their non-practicing ways BUT be aware of the consequences and be able to live with them. There is absolutely no need for anyone to feel sorry for you and you do not need to act as a victim simply because you choose to not live your life as a faithful Christian.
Although Msgr. Jon usually celebrates the mass I attend and being that I have not been to many of Father Lucio's masses, I believe he is doing the right thing and preaches in the name of the Lord. It seems he takes his responsibilities seriously and is keeping all in order to the best of his ability. read more