A special Mass is reserved by the Church for each life-cycle event, and presenting the host (consecrated bread) to the faithful heightens the sanctity of the occasion. The Catholic wedding, which essentially consists of the bestowal of a blessing, is divided into two parts: the betrothal ceremony, when the couple exchange rings, join hands, and pronounce their vows; and the Nuptial Mass, at the end of which they receive the host. This concludes the spiritual preparation that the bridal pair undergo towards their marriage.