For the week ending 13 June 2009 / 20 Sivan 5769
Responding to an Invitation
Question: I recently received an invitation to the wedding of a friend's daughter that is taking place in another country. There is no possibility of my participating in that simcha but I don't wish to offend my friend by ignoring his invitation. What is the right thing to do?
Answer: You can be sure that your friend did not send the invitation with an expectation that you would make a special trip abroad in order to participate in the wedding. He did want you to know about it and some acknowledgement of receiving the invitation would be in order.
This can easily be achieved with a phone call or letter expressing your regret at not being able to come and offering your heartfelt Mazal Tov and blessing for nachat.