Arranging and holding an Anglican marriage is reasonably straightforward, but it does sometimes raise a few questions. This article takes a closer look at the most commonly asked questions by those planning a Church of England or Church in Wales wedding.
Can an Anglican Marriage take place on a Sunday?
There is no reason why not, although it is rare for this to happen. Sunday is a busy day in the Church and with so many other things taking place there is not normally time for the Minister to squeeze in a wedding. That said, if for whatever reason you have your heart set on a Sunday Anglican marriage, should speak to your local Church Minister as soon as possible and you may be in luck.
Can an Anglican Marriage take place during Lent or Advent?
Ministers will often refuse marriages during Lent (the period leading up to Easter Sunday where traditionally Christians abstain) and Advent (the twenty four day period leading up to Christmas Day – hence the phrase ‘Advent Calendar’). However, not all Church Minister's will share this view, so it is important to get in touch with them early if this is your preference.
Are divorcees allowed an Anglican marriage?
In a nutshell, the answer is that it depends on the circumstances. Widows and widowers should encounter relatively few problems arranging an Anglican marriage, although for divorcees whose ex-partner is still alive, there may well be difficulties. For divorcees, regardless of their situation, the first step should be to speak to the Minister who will be conducting the Ceremony. The Minister will usually ask for further information about the circumstances that led to the divorce and will then assess each case on its merits. A Minister is well within his rights to refuse to marry divorcees although as time passes the number of Churches continuing down this path is diminishing.
Do I need an Anglican marriage rehearsal?
Unless there are extenuating circumstances, then the answer is 'yes'. The rehearsal normally takes place a few days before the wedding and allows all members of the wedding party to understand what will happen and what they need to do in order to ensure everything runs smoothly.
We aren't having an Anglican marriage but would like to be blessed – is this possible?
Blessings are ideal for couples who are tying the knot abroad or via a civil wedding but would still like their marriage to be blessed by God. Arranging a blessing is simply a matter of contacting your local Minister and making the relevant arrangements. There are no legal requirements and no set up fees, only a fee payable for the service itself.
I’m Anglican and my partner is of a different denomination – does that matter?
People of all denominations have a right to be married in their parish Church (provided they have not been married before). So it doesn’t matter from an Anglican marriage perspective if one partner is a member of a different faith.
Recommended Reading
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