Blessing of a Marriage

The Liturgy Committee has prepared the Blessing of a Marriage service, which has been approved for experimental use by the Faith and Order Board and the College of Bishops.

Blessing of a Marriage is for use with a couple whose marriage has already been solemnised, and may be used only if the officiating cleric is satisfied that their marriage is not contrary to Canon 31: Of the Solemnisation of Holy Matrimony. While a marriage solemnised by a civil authority is full and complete, and no religious ceremony is required by the Church in order for it to be recognised as such, the present rite is nevertheless available at the request of married couples who wish to make an act of thanksgiving and to affirm their promises before God and the Church. The rite may also be used for the re-affirmation of promises by couples previously married in church (for example, on an anniversary of the marriage).