THE MARRIAGE SERVICE

THE MARRIAGE SERVICE -- DRAFT 11 (May 1997)

NOTES

1. Preparation.
   It is the custom and practice of the Church of England to offer preparation for marriage for couples who are soon to be married, as well as to be available for counselling and support in the years that follow.
   
   
2. The Banns.
   The banns are to be published in the church on three Sundays at the time of Divine Service by the officiant in the form set out in the Book of Common Prayer or in the following form:

   I publish the banns of marriage between NN of.. and NN of.. This is the first (second) (third) time of asking. If any of you know any reason in law why they may not marry each other you are to declare it. We pray for these couples (or N and N) as they prepare for their wedding(s).

   A suitable prayer may be said (see Appendix 1)

3. Hymns and Canticles.
   These may be used at suitable points during the service.
   
   
4. Seating.
   It is recommended that chairs should be provided for the bride and bridegroom during the readings and sermon.
   
   
5. The Ministry of the Word.
   At least one reading must be used. At Holy Communion there are two readings, of which the Gospel must be one. Suggested readings are printed in Appendix 2.
   
   
6. 'Giving Away'
   This traditional ceremony is optional. Immediately before THE VOWS (page 00), the minister asks
   Who brings this woman to be married to this man?
   The bride's father (or another member of her family or a friend representing the family) gives the bride's right hand to the minister who puts it in the bridegroom's right hand. The bride and groom may process into church together.
7. The Declaration of Intent and the Vows.
   The couple repeat the vows after the minister, or may read them. If preferred, the question to the bride, and her vow, may come before the question to the bridegroom and his vow.
   
   
8. The Prayers.
   Several forms of intercession are provided. Other suitable forms may be used, especially prayers which the couple have written or selected in co-operation with the minister. Silence may be kept or free prayer may be offered.
   
   
9. The Registration of The Marriage
   The law requires that the Registers are filled in immediately after the solemnisation of a marriage. This may take place either after THE PROCLAMATION or at the end of the service.
   
   
10. Ecumenical Provisions
    Where a minister of another Christian Church is invited to assist at the Solemnisation of Matrimony, the permissions and procedures set out in the Canon B43 are to be followed. The Church of England minister who solemnises the marriage must establish the absence of impediment, direct the exchange of vows declare the existence of the marriage, say the final blessing, and sign the registers. A minister invited to assist may say all or part of the opening address, lead the declarations of intent, supervise the exchange of rings, and join in the blessing of the marriage. He or she may also read a lesson and lead all or part of the prayers. Where the couple come from different Christian communions the bishop may authorise such variations to the marriage service as are set out in Appendix Z.

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