Why marry in church?

Many brides dream of a church wedding. The service, the building, the priest and the music all add to the sense of occasion, but they shouldn’t be the main reason for choosing a Christian ceremony.

Marriage, the Bible tells us, is a gift of God in creation and a means of his grace. It is a holy mystery in which man and woman become one flesh. It also reminds us of the intended love relationship between Christ and his Church.

The Marriage Service reflects this. It allows you to make solemn promises in front of family and friends, but also in the sight of God and with his blessing. Even if you aren’t regular churchgoers, your minister will encourage you to think more deeply about the spiritual aspects of your wedding.

Arranging the wedding

The first step is to arrange to see your local minister, who may set aside an evening each week to discuss weddings and baptisms. He or she will wish to prepare you for the serious undertaking of marriage, as well as helping you with the practical and legal aspects of the service. They should be able to answer all your questions.

Contact details for rectors can be found by searching Parishes and Clergy in the appropriate Church of Ireland diocese.

The local minister can also discuss with couples the dedication of a civil marriage or remarriage after a relationship breakdown.

Interchurch Marriages

The last few decades have seen dramatic changes in interchurch relations and in the attitude of both Churches to "mixed marriages".

Once mixed marriages were hidden and ignored: today they are visible and being accepted by most congregations of both churches. People are discovering that for a member of the Church of Ireland to marry a Roman Catholic may become an enriching experience, though sometimes difficulties can be encountered along the way.

As a couple you may already have had considerable discussion about your religious traditions. Click here for more information which may assist you as you make your marriage plans.

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