Marriage
Liturgies

The congregation is invited to read this before the service begins.

A wedding is one of life’s great moments, a time for good wishes, feasting and joy. St John tells us how Jesus shared in such an occasion, and gave there a sign of new beginnings.

Marriage is intended by God to be a creative relationship – God’s blessing enables husband and wife to love and support each other in good times and bad. For Christians, marriage is also an invitation to share life together in the spirit of Jesus Christ. It is based upon a solemn, public and life-long covenant between a man and a woman, made and celebrated in the presence of God and before a priest and congregation.

The couple has prepared the service of their choice, assisted by the priest. On this their wedding day they face each other, make their promises with clear understanding, and receive the Church’s blessing.

You, the congregation, are witnesses of the marriage, and express your support by your presence and your prayers. Your part is written in bold type.

‘Love is patient and kind. Love never comes to an end.’

The marriage may be set within any of the Liturgies of the Eucharist.
Guidance for this may be found among the Additional Directions on page 807.