the meaning of standing up in a wedding

[ftw1029]

I recently found out that a good friend of mine has been sexually impure. I am very sad about this on many levels.

She is planning on marrying this summer and has asked me to be a bridesmaid. I am conflicted about it. So the question is, What is the meaning of standing up in a wedding?

Does it mean I approve with no reservations? Or does it just mean that I am a witness to a marriage, even though it has already been consummated? I believe it is a commitment to stand by the couple and support them in their marriage, for sure. What else? Does anyone know the history behind the tradition or any Christian wisdom that would speak to this issue?

ftw

 

[72_Chev_Truck]

http://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/sub/register/marrtrad.htm#traditions this has some tradition and history but i dont think its what you are looking for.

http://www.dessy.com/documents/bridesguide/guidetobridesmaids1.html a few pages here

http://www.bankers-cinn.com/catering/Tradition.htm more stuff

 

[klewlis]

I personally feel that agreeing to stand up for someone in their wedding is a vote of support for the marriage. Note that I said for the marriage, not necessarily for their actions prior to the marriage. If the couple is currently living in sin then they need to deal with that before I will support their relationship (and I've seen pastors refuse to marry people until they repent and change their ways). However, if it is something in the past which is already forgiven and dealth with, then you don't need to worry about it now.

Try talking to your friend about this same question and see what they say.

 

[michiganst8fan]

I personally feel that agreeing to stand up for someone in their wedding is a vote of support for the marriage. Note that I said for the marriage, not necessarily for their actions prior to the marriage. If the couple is currently living in sin then they need to deal with that before I will support their relationship (and I've seen pastors refuse to marry people until they repent and change their ways). However, if it is something in the past which is already forgiven and dealth with, then you don't need to worry about it now.

Try talking to your friend about this same question and see what they say.

Well said....

 

[shania]

I think it's a personal decision. If you don't feel comfortable doing it, even if you come to the conclusion that a bridesmaid doesn't necesarily have to approve of the marriage, then don't do it.
A non-Christian friend from childhood told me that she wanted to marry her soon-to-be fiance for his money one time when she had too much to drink. I told myself that if she asked me to be her bridesmaid then I would refuse, plain and simple.
What's more important to you, pleasing a friend or standing up for your principles?