Q: I have recently been consulting your book Inseparable Love – which is an invaluable resource – the Church is again in your debt.
I wanted to offer a footnote on ‘bridal party’ which you comment on page 58. This was a proposed adaptation from England and Wales. The more general point is that it exemplifies what seems to be current CDW practice which is that other countries can be given adaptations they did not seek.
The reason for the adaptation which you recognise is that it allows for the Entrance of the Bride, however in British English at least it can also refer to the whole wedding party, e.g. bride and groom, families etc – so our intention was all encompassing and to allow for both options.
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A: Thanks for your comments on my work. And thanks for the clarification of “bridal party.” I truly believe that in unreflected American parlance, the expression means the same here as there: It can include the groom, families and friends. I may be drawing too much out of the change in that line, but it strikes me that the chosen phrase “bridal party” supports the practice of keeping the groom at the front with the groomsmen, and the bride in the back with the bridesmaids. Your explanation helps me see the broader intent.
Very helpful to know where the adaptation comes from and more of its meaning. Duly noted for the future. Thank you for sharing.